A method pointer is a programming concept used in languages like C++ and Java to refer to a specific method of a class or object. It allows developers to store the address of a method in a variable, enabling dynamic method invocation. This is particularly useful for implementing callbacks or event handling, where the method to be executed can be determined at runtime. In C++, method pointers are often used with class member functions, requiring a specific syntax to access them. In contrast, Java uses interfaces and lambda expressions to achieve similar functionality, allowing for cleaner and more readable code. Method pointers enhance flexibility and modularity in software design.