Search Dictionary
Definition of crossbench

crossbench

/ˈkrɔːsˌbɛntʃ/
cross · bench
Plural:crossbenches
JUMP TO:

crossbench Lexical Profile

crossbench Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

British Relating to or denoting an independent member of a legislature who is not affiliated with any major political party.

Example

"Several crossbench peers proposed crucial amendments to the bill in the House of Lords."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for crossbench
Antonyms
View all antonyms for crossbench

• noun

1

British A bench or group of seats in a legislative chamber occupied by independent members or minor party representatives who belong to neither the governing party nor the official opposition.

Example

"The Prime Minister had to negotiate with senators on the crossbench to secure enough votes for the legislation."

Antonyms
View all antonyms for crossbench

• Nearby Words

crossandra
crossbar
crossbeam
crossbench
crossbill
crossbones
crossbow

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the 17th century from 'cross' and 'bench', originally referring to the benches arranged perpendicular to the government and opposition seats in the British Parliament where independent members sit.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Crossbench. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/crossbench
Built for writers, students, and competitive word game players, Wordmom combines an uncluttered English dictionary and thesaurus with fast, pattern-based word finders so you can verify definitions, synonyms, and high-scoring tile plays in one place.
Word Games & Solvers
Word FinderScrabble Word FinderWords With Friends CheatWordle SolverAnagram Solver
Dictionary & Reference
DictionarySynonymsAntonymsWords
Community
Contact UsEditorial PolicyPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
© 2016–2026 Wordmom Network. All rights reserved. Made with for word lovers everywhere.
Disclaimer: SCRABBLE® is a registered trademark. All intellectual property rights in and to the game are owned in the U.S.A. and Canada by Hasbro Inc., and throughout the rest of the world by J.W. Spear & Sons Limited of Maidenhead, Berkshire, England, a subsidiary of Mattel Inc. Mattel and Spear are not affiliated with Hasbro. Words With Friends® is a registered trademark of Zynga Inc. Wordle® is a registered trademark of The New York Times Company. Other referenced game titles and tournament lexicon codes (including NASPA NWL and WESPA/HarperCollins CSW) are trademarks of their respective owners. Wordmom is an independent reference utility for educational and entertainment purposes and is not affiliated with, sponsored by, or endorsed by Hasbro, Mattel, Spear, Zynga, The New York Times Company, NASPA, WESPA, or HarperCollins Publishers. All game names are referenced strictly under nominative fair use to indicate compatibility.