Pointer: meaning, definitions and examples

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pointer

[ ˈpɔɪntər ]

^{Context #1}

computer programming

A variable that stores the memory address of another variable. Pointers are commonly used in low-level programming languages like C and C++ to manage memory efficiently.

Synonyms

address, reference

Examples of usage

In C programming, pointers are used to manipulate memory directly.
The use of pointers can lead to more efficient memory usage in certain applications.

^{Context #2}

general

A small stick or rod used for pointing or indicating direction.

Synonyms

rod, stick

Examples of usage

He used a pointer to show the location on the map.
The teacher used a pointer to highlight important information on the board.

^{Context #3}

animals

A hunting dog trained to point to the location of game birds.

Synonyms

bird dog, retriever

Examples of usage

The pointer alerted the hunter to the presence of a pheasant nearby.
Pointers are known for their keen sense of smell and ability to locate birds.

Translations

Translations of the word "pointer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ponteiro

🇮🇳 सूचक

🇩🇪 Zeiger

🇮🇩 penunjuk

🇺🇦 вказівник

🇵🇱 wskaźnik

🇯🇵 ポインター

🇫🇷 pointeur

🇪🇸 puntero

🇹🇷 işaretçi

🇰🇷 포인터

🇸🇦 مؤشر

🇨🇿 ukazatel

🇸🇰 ukazovateľ

🇨🇳 指针

🇸🇮 kazalec

🇮🇸 bendill

🇰🇿 нұсқағыш

🇬🇪 მითითება

🇦🇿 göstərici

🇲🇽 puntero

Word origin

The word 'pointer' originated in the late 16th century, derived from the verb 'point'. It initially referred to a person or thing that points. Over time, the term evolved to encompass various meanings, from indicating direction with a stick to guiding hunting dogs. In the realm of computer programming, the concept of pointers emerged to facilitate memory management and efficiency in data manipulation.