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Definition of crossword

crossword

/ˈkrɔːs.wɝːd/
cross · word
Plural:crosswords
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crossword Lexical Profile

crossword Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A puzzle consisting of a grid of white and black squares, in which words corresponding to numbered clues are written horizontally and vertically so that the letters intersect.

Example

"She enjoys solving the Sunday newspaper crossword over a cup of morning coffee."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for crossword

• Nearby Words

crosswind
crosswire
crosswise
crossword
crostini
crostino
crotch

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the early 20th century as a shortening of 'cross-word puzzle,' after journalist Arthur Wynne published the first modern grid puzzle (originally titled a 'Word-Cross Puzzle') in the New York World newspaper in December 1913.

Cite this Entry

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