Search Dictionary
Definition of crosswire

crosswire

/ˈkrɔːsˌwaɪ.ɚ/
cross · wire
Plural:crosswires
•
Adjective:crosswired
•
Past Simple:crosswired
•
Past Participle:crosswired
•
Present Participle:crosswiring
JUMP TO:

crosswire Lexical Profile

crosswire Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

Either of two fine wires or fibers intersecting at right angles in the focal plane of an optical instrument, used for precise alignment or measurement.

Example

"The surveyor adjusted the telescope until the distant marker was centered on the crosswires."

2

A wire stretched across an area or intersecting another wire, such as one supporting overhead lines or bracing a structure.

Example

"The technician inspected the overhead crosswires supporting the streetcar cables."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for crosswire

• verb

1

To connect the wires of an electrical device or system incorrectly or in reverse.

Example

"If you accidentally crosswire the terminals, the circuit breaker will trip immediately."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for crosswire

• Nearby Words

crossway
crossways
crosswind
crosswire
crosswise
crossword
crostini

Usage Trend

Historical frequency of usage in published text.

180019102020
Data source: Google Books Ngram Viewer

Cite this Entry

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