pointer

views updated Jun 27 2018

point·er / ˈpointər/ • n. 1. a long thin piece of metal on a scale or dial that moves to indicate a figure or position. ∎  a rod used for pointing to features on a map or chart. ∎  a hint as to what might happen in the future: the figures were a pointer to gradual economic recovery. ∎  a small piece of advice; a tip: here are some pointers on how to go about the task. ∎  Comput. another term for cursor. ∎  Comput. a variable whose value is the address of another variable; a link.2. a dog of a breed that on scenting game stands rigid looking toward it.

pointer

views updated May 29 2018

pointer
1. (link) A value that indicates the storage location of an item of data. Thus when a field of an item A in a data structure contains the address of another item B, i.e. of its first word in memory, it contains a pointer to B; it is said to point to B.

2. Another name for pointing device.

pointer

views updated Jun 27 2018

pointer Smooth-coated, sporting and gun dog that developed in the 17th century for hunting. It can be trained to indicate the direction in which game lies by standing motionless, aligning its muzzle, body, and tail. It has a wide head with a solid muzzle. The strong, lean body is set on muscular legs. The short, dense coat can be white with black or brown markings. Height: to 63cm (25in); weight: to 27kg (60lb).