pontiagudo

Pontiagudo is a Portuguese term commonly used as an adjective meaning sharp-pointed, pointed, or acutely pointed. In everyday language it describes objects or forms with a pronounced tip or apex, such as a rock, a blade, or other geometrically pointed features.

Etymology and form: The word is formed from elements related to point and sharpness in Portuguese, typically combining punta or ponto (point) with agudo (sharp, acute). As a descriptive term, pontiagudo highlights a conspicuously pointed profile or edge.

Toponymy and geography: Pontiagudo also appears in place names within Portuguese-speaking regions. In geographic usage, it is often applied to natural features with a distinctly pointed shape, such as hills, promontories, cliffs, or rock outcrops. As a toponym, Pontiagudo can stand alone as a place name or be part of longer toponyms within municipalities.

Usage and distribution: Because it is a descriptive, rather than a unique identifier, Pontiagudo is relatively common in local geographic nomenclature in countries where Portuguese is spoken. It typically denotes a feature that observers would describe as pointed or sharp.

See also: Portuguese toponymy; geographic descriptors in Portuguese.