pointless

adjective

point·​less ˈpȯint-ləs How to pronounce pointless (audio)
Synonyms of pointless
1
: devoid of meaning : senseless
a pointless remark
2
: devoid of effectiveness : flat
pointless attempts to be funny
pointlessly adverb
pointlessness noun

Synonyms of pointless

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Examples of pointless in a Sentence

It would be pointless for us to continue the investigation. a pointless remark that left everyone scratching their heads in confusion
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Totally ruined by introducing too many plot lines that were pointless or opened up and left alone without closure. — David Hookstead Outkick, FOXNews.com, 12 Oct. 2026 The same old people who criticise the aero on BMW’s S1000RR and Ducati’s Panigale and view it as pointless. — New Atlas, 10 Oct. 2026 Jo, who is still desperately trying to earn her orange back, and more power to her, brings Alexis over to Heather for another pointless conversation. — Louis Peitzman, Vulture, 9 Oct. 2026 Storming a podium at a meeting of academics is a pointless performative act. — Kevin Rennie, Hartford Courant, 26 Sep. 2026 See All Example Sentences for pointless

Word History

First Known Use

1673, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of pointless was in 1673

Browse Nearby Words

point lace
pointless
pointlet
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Pointless.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/pointless. Accessed 14 Oct. 2026.

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Kids Definition

pointless

adjective
point·​less ˈpȯint-ləs How to pronounce pointless (audio)
1
: lacking meaning : senseless
a pointless remark
2
: ineffective sense 1
pointless attempts to be funny
pointlessly adverb
pointlessness noun
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