pointer

Everyday

1. A stick, arrow or needle used to point at something, such as on a dial, scale or clock. tree →
2. (informal) A useful tip or piece of advice. tree →
3. The arrow on a computer screen that you move with the mouse. tree →
4. A type of hunting dog. tree →
5. (computers) A value that tells where something is stored. tree →

In the lessons

In maths and science: read where the pointer is on a scale or dial. In the classroom, a teacher may use a pointer on the board. In everyday talk: "Can you give me some pointers?" Phrases: laser pointer, pointers on.

Examples

• Read the scale where the pointer stops. tree →
• The pointer on the scales showed 3 kilograms. tree →
• Move the pointer to the icon and click. tree →
• Can you give me a few pointers on my drawing? tree →
• The teacher used a pointer to show the map. tree →
• Never shine a laser pointer in anyone's eyes. tree →
• A pointer dog stands still and points at birds. tree →

Note

Countable. Safety: laser pointers can damage eyes. In a maths scale question, find what each small mark is worth before reading the pointer.