Point can mean a small dot or sharp tip, like the point of a pencil. It can also mean the main idea or purpose of something, or a single item in a list, score, or argument.
From Old French *point* “dot, sharp tip, moment,” from Latin *punctum* “a prick, point,” from *pungere* “to prick.” The many meanings all grew from the idea of a tiny, sharp spot or moment.
It’s striking that the same word covers both a tiny dot and a big idea: a *point* in space and the *point* of a story. English is quietly suggesting that arguments and maps both depend on knowing exactly where you’re aiming.
Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.