Directional indicator. It's the simple meaning:
The little star (*) is on the same key as 8, above the 8:
The asterisk is the most amazing symbol ever created!*
If you use an asterisk, your writing will win tons of awards and make you world famous!*
There is nothing that the asterisk cannot do!*
Heh, who ever really looks down, reads the fine print. It's like Red's recap of Andy's escape from Shawshank:
"I mean seriously, how often do you really look at a man's shoes?"
Put One Foot in Front of the Other and soon you'll be walking out the door... ♫