cross
cross Lexical Profile
cross Game Scores & Validity
• noun
A mark, symbol, or geometric figure formed by two intersecting lines, typically like a '+' or an 'X'.
"Please mark your chosen answer with a neat cross in the box provided."
An upright post with a transverse bar, used in antiquity for crucifixion and now widely recognized as the principal emblem of the Christian religion, or a physical monument or ornament in this shape.
"She wore a small silver cross on a delicate chain around her neck."
A mixture of two different things, qualities, or genetic breeds; a hybrid.
"The new musical genre is a fascinating cross between traditional folk and modern jazz."
An enduring trial, affliction, or source of sorrow that tests one's patience or virtue.
"Chronic illness was a heavy cross that he bore with remarkable dignity."
• verb
To go, pass, or extend from one side to the other of an area, boundary, or street.
"Always look both ways before you cross the busy street."
To place one limb, finger, or part of the body over another.
"He sat back in his armchair and decided to cross his legs."
To intersect or lie across another line, path, or object.
"The two major highways cross just north of the capital city."
To oppose, thwart, or act counter to the wishes or plans of someone.
"Few colleagues dared to cross the director once she had made her final decision."
To cause two animals or plants of different breeds, varieties, or species to interbreed.
"Botanists were able to cross the two varieties of wheat to produce a disease-resistant crop."
• adjective
Annoyed, irritable, or in a bad mood.
"The teacher became quite cross when the students continued talking during the lecture."
Extending, lying, or moving across something else; transverse or intersecting.
"The carpenter reinforced the wooden frame with two sturdy cross beams."
• Rhymes for cross
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Borrowed in late Old English from Old Irish 'cros' or Old Norse 'kross', both ultimately derived from the Latin 'crux', referring to an upright stake or instrument of execution.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.