pin|point

pin|point «PIHN _POYNT», noun, verb, adjective.

–n.

1. the point of a pin.

2. something extremely small: »

What diamonds you'll see are mostly tiny things, used to add a pinpoint of a sparkle to a watch face (New Yorker).

3. the exact location of something, such as a target that has been pinpointed: »

The bombs hit the pinpoints at which they were aimed.

–v.t.

1. to mark the exact geographical position of, by sticking a pin or similar pointer into the spot on a map where coordinates intersect: »

to pinpoint a field on a military map, to pinpoint a topographical feature.

2. to ascertain the exact nature or extent of: »

A Midwest machine tool maker foresees industry entering a period of uncertainty until it can better pinpoint the consequences of a Democratic victory (Wall Street Journal).

3. to determine precisely: »

His refusal to help simply pinpoints his cowardice.

4. to aim at accurately; seek not to hit anything other than what is specified, as in dropping bombs or firing missiles, or artillery.

–adj.

1. extremely accurate or precise: »

pinpoint bombing.

2. of the size of a pinpoint; very small; minute: »

pinpoint perforations, pinpoint particles.