Mouse pointer
A mouse cursor, also known as a mouse arrow, or mouse pointer, is a graphical image used to activate or control certain elements in a graphical user interface. More plainly, it indicates where your mouse should perform its next action, such as opening a program or dragging a file to another location. The mouse pointer follows the path of the user's hand as they move their mouse. The graphic shows an example of a typical mouse cursor.
See our mouse page for a full explanation of a mouse, types of mice, and other related information.
Example of a mouse pointer
In the animation next to this paragraph, you'll see an example of a mouse cursor moving around the screen. By default, it looks like a pointed arrow. When positioned over selectable text, it appears as an I-beam cursor. When hovering over a link, it appears as a hand with a pointing finger.
Other examples of mouse pointers not pictured include the two-headed arrow, the four-headed arrow, and the hourglass.
Why is it called a mouse pointer?
It's named a mouse pointer because the icon "points" to the area or object with which your computer mouse will interact. More plainly, it "points" where the mouse is going to click.
Cursor, Double-headed arrow, Finger, Mouse, Mouse terms, Operating system terms, Pointer, Pointing device