To point a rope (Naut.), to taper and neatly finish off the end by
interweaving the nettles. -- To point a sail (Naut.), to affix points
through the eyelet holes of the reefs. -- To point off, to divide into
periods or groups, or to separate, by pointing, as figures. -- To point
the yards (of a vessel) (Naut.), to brace them so that the wind shall
strike the sails obliquely. Totten.
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Point (point), v. i. 1. To direct the point of something, as of a
finger, for the purpose of designating an object, and attracting
attention to it; -- with at.
Now must the world point at poor Katharine.
Shak.
Point at the tattered coat and ragged shoe.
Dryden.
2. To indicate the presence of game by fixed and steady look, as
certain hunting dogs do.
He treads with caution, and he points with fear.
Gay.
3. (Med.) To approximate to the surface; to head; -- said of an
abscess.
To point at, to treat with scorn or contempt by pointing or directing
attention to. -- To point well (Naut.), to sail close to the wind; --
said of a vessel.
Point"al (?), n. [From Point: cf. F. pointal an upright wooden prop,
OF. pointille a prick or prickle.]