Pointer
'pɔɪntər
Definitions
3 meaningsSomething that directs attention or indicates position, or a small object on a screen, usually moved by a mouse.
'pɔɪntər
A person or thing that indicates a direction or position.
The pointer on the map showed us the way.
💡 Simply: Think of the little arrow you move around on your computer screen with the mouse. That's a pointer! It's also something that helps show you where to go or what to look at, like the hand on a clock or a signpost.
👶 For kids: It's like a finger that shows you where to look. Like the little arrow on your computer!
More Examples
Click on the icon with the pointer to open the file.
The dog was a skilled pointer, freezing in place when it spotted the bird.
How It's Used
"The pointer on the compass indicated north."
"The mouse pointer moved across the screen."
A breed of dog specifically trained to locate game birds and indicate their presence.
'pɔɪntər
A type of dog used for hunting game birds.
The hunter brought his English pointer to the field.
💡 Simply: Imagine a super-smart dog that stops and freezes when it smells a bird. That dog is called a pointer, because it *points* to where the bird is hiding. It's like a furry GPS for hunters!
👶 For kids: A dog that stops and looks at the birds when it finds them.
More Examples
The pointer stood motionless, its tail stiff, signaling a pheasant was nearby.
How It's Used
"The pointer froze, indicating the location of the quail."
A variable in computer programming that stores the memory address of another variable or data structure. It allows direct manipulation of the memory location where data is stored.
'pɔɪntər
In computer programming, a variable that stores the address of a memory location.
Understanding pointers is crucial for C and C++ programming.
💡 Simply: Imagine a map that tells your computer where to find something important in its memory. The 'pointer' is like the address on the map. It doesn't hold the thing itself, but tells the computer *where* to find it.
👶 For kids: It's like a secret code in the computer that tells it where to find something.
More Examples
Dereferencing a pointer means accessing the value stored at the memory address it holds.
The program used a pointer to dynamically allocate memory for the array.
How It's Used
"The pointer variable stored the address of the data."
Idioms & expressions
point of no return
A stage in a process where it is impossible or extremely difficult to go back or change course.
"Once the contract was signed, they were at the point of no return."
From Middle English *poyntour*, derived from the verb "point" + "-er" (agent suffix). Originally referred to someone or something that points.
The term 'pointer' has been used in various contexts throughout history, from indicating direction in maps and instruments to being associated with dog breeds used for hunting from the 18th century onward. The computing definition is a more modern usage.
Memory tip
Imagine a finger pointing – that's a pointer.
Word Origin
"to direct attention, indicate"