The word "pointed" has a unique spelling due to the silent vowel in the middle. The IPA phonetic transcription for "pointed" is /ˈpɔɪntɪd/. The "oi" diphthong is pronounced as a single sound, like "oy", and the "e" in the middle of the word is silent. This can be a tricky spelling pattern for English language learners or those who are not familiar with the intricacies of English spelling. However, with practice and repetition, it becomes easier to remember and use correctly.
Pointed, as an adjective, has multiple meanings and can be used in different contexts. Here are some dictionary definitions of "pointed" in various senses.
1. Having a sharp or tapering tip: Pointed typically refers to something that comes to a narrow or sharp end. For example, a pointed pencil, needle, or cone.
2. Direct and to the point: Used to describe communication or writing style that is concise, straightforward, and unambiguous. A pointed remark or comment gets directly to the heart of the matter without unnecessary explanations or digressions.
3. Having a sense of purpose or intention: When something is said to be pointed, it implies that it serves a deliberate purpose or goal. For instance, a pointed question is asked with the intention of extracting specific information or provoking a particular response.
4. Characterized by sharpness or clarity: In this context, pointed refers to something that is marked by precision, acuteness, or distinctiveness. For example, a pointed criticism is a sharp or incisive evaluation that identifies specific flaws or shortcomings.
5. Having an emphasized or highlighted feature: Pointed can also mean that a particular part or aspect of something is prominent, distinctive, or noticeable. For instance, a pointed roof has a triangular shape that stands out from the rest of the building's structure.
Overall, pointed denotes a literal or figurative sharpness, emphasis, or intent that sets something apart or gets straight to the point.
• Aimed at any particular person or thing.
• Having a sharp end; keen; smart, as a rebuke; in arch., having arches sharply pointed.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word pointed originates from the Old French word pointu, which is the past participle of the verb pointer, meaning to point. This French term is derived from the Latin word punctum, which means a point or dot. In turn, punctum is the past participle of the Latin verb pungere, meaning to prick or pierce.