pointless

• pointlesse (obsolete)

From Middle English pointles, poynteles, poyntlees; equivalent to point +‎ -less.

• enPR: pointʹləs, IPA^(key): /ˈpɔɪntləs/

• Audio (US):

  (file)

pointless (comparative more pointless, superlative most pointless)

1. Having no point or sharp tip; terminating squarely or in a rounded end.

   a pointless sword

   a pointless knife

2. Having no prominent or important feature, as of an argument, discourse, etc.

   a pointless remark

   The sequel to the film was even more pointless than the original

   • 2017, Hernan Diaz, In the Distance, Daunt Books (2018), page 304:

     Even the numerous drunkards and beggars seemed to be in a hurry, stumbling from one side of the street to the other with pointless resolution or, with businesslike expeditiousness, soliciting money and food from strangers.

3. Having no purpose; purposeless; unable to effect an aim.

   Since the decision has already been made, further discussion seems pointless.

4. (sports, games) Having no points

   After four matches and four defeats, United remain pointless at the foot of the table.

5. (mathematics) Without points.

   a pointless topology

6. (programming, derogatory) Point-free; employing the tacit programming paradigm.

• (having no point or tip): blunt, dull, obtuse
• (having no purpose): futile, needless, purposeless, redundant, superfluous
• (mathematics: without points): point-free

• (antonym(s) of “not sharp”): pointed, sharp
• (antonym(s) of “having no purpose”): worthwhile, useful, pointful

• pointless topology
• pointlessly
• pointlessness

• “pointless”, in Webster’s Revised Unabridged Dictionary, Springfield, Mass.: G. & C. Merriam, 1913, →OCLC.
• “pointless”, in The Century Dictionary , New York, N.Y.: The Century Co., 1911, →OCLC.