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Definition of crosswind

crosswind

/ˈkrɔːs.wɪnd/
cross · wind
Plural:crosswinds
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crosswind Lexical Profile

crosswind Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A wind that blows across the direction of travel, especially perpendicular to a runway, road, or flight path.

Example

"The pilot skillfully adjusted the aircraft's rudder to compensate for the strong crosswind during landing."

2

An opposing, disruptive, or conflicting force, trend, or influence (usually used in the plural).

Example

"Small businesses must navigate the economic crosswinds of rising inflation and shifting consumer habits."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

crosswalk
crossway
crossways
crosswind
crosswire
crosswise
crossword

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in the late 19th century as a compound of "cross" (from Old Norse kross) and "wind" (from Old English wind), gaining widespread technical use in the early 20th century with the rise of aviation.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Crosswind. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/crosswind
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