point
UK: pɔɪnt | US: pɔɪnt
n. a sharp end or tip of an object
n. a particular detail or idea in a discussion
n. a unit of scoring in games or competitions
vt. to direct attention toward something
vi. to face or be aimed in a particular direction
The word "point" traces back to the Latin punctum, meaning "a prick, dot, or small hole," derived from the verb pungere ("to prick"). Over time, it evolved in Old French as point (sharp tip) and entered Middle English with broader meanings, including "detail" or "purpose." The semantic expansion reflects the logical progression from a physical sharp tip to abstract "key ideas" or "directions."
She used a pencil to mark the point where the lines intersect.
His argument missed the main point of the debate.
The team scored three points in the final minute.
He pointed at the map to show the location.
The compass needle always points north.