cross
noun
Definitions of cross noun
mark
- A1Countable
A mark formed by two intersecting lines, typically an 'x' or '+', used to indicate a location or an error.
structure
- B1Countable
A structure consisting of an upright post with a horizontal beam near the top, used in ancient times for execution by crucifixion.
symbol
- B1Countable
A cross-shaped object, often used as a symbol of Christianity, representing the cross on which Jesus Christ was crucified.
Jesus Christ was executed on a cross.
She wears a golden cross pendant on her neck.
The pastor made the sign of the cross over the deceased.
award
- Countable
A medal or award in the shape of a cross, often given for recognition of bravery or service.
The Victoria Cross is awarded in Britain to those who demonstrate extraordinary bravery during wartime.
combination
- Countable
A hybrid or blend resulting from the combination of two different elements or species.
Service dogs are frequently a cross between Labrador Retrievers and German Shepherds.
sports
- Countable
A pass, kick, or hit in sports where the ball is moved laterally across the field rather than forwards or backwards.
He scored a header into the goal following a superb cross from Billy.
verb
Definitions of cross verb
move
- A2TransitiveIntransitive
To move from one side of something to the other.
This is not a safe place to cross the street.
Always check for traffic before you cross the road.
Go across the bridge and then turn right.
oppose
- Transitive
To oppose or defy someone, often causing annoyance or anger.
If I were you, I wouldn't cross him unless you have a death wish.
breed
- Transitive
To breed plants or animals of different varieties together to create a new variety.
sports
- TransitiveIntransitive
In sports, to pass, kick, or throw the ball laterally across the field to another player.
He crossed the ball to Bremer, but Bremer missed the goal from two meters out.
mark
- finance & economicsspecialized
To draw two parallel lines across a check to indicate that it must be deposited into a bank account.
a crossed cheque
Phrases of cross verb
- cross yourself
To make the sign of the cross by moving one's hand in a specific pattern across the chest or forehead, typically as part of a religious practice.
• She fell to her knees, crossed herself, and began to pray fervently.
- cross someone's mind
If a thought crosses your mind, it briefly occurs to you.
• It suddenly crossed my mind that tomorrow is our anniversary.
- cross your arms/fingers/legs
To position one arm, finger, or leg over the other.
• She sat on the chair with her legs crossed.
adjective
Definitions of cross adjective
Feeling annoyed or angry.
My dad will be cross with me if I leave the kitchen in a mess.
prefix
Definitions of cross prefix
Extending or moving from one side to another.
cross-border
Relating to or involving different groups or disciplines.
cross-party discussions
Idioms
- Cross my heart (and hope to die)
Used to emphasize that what one has just said or promised is absolutely true and sincere.
• "I didn't eat the cookies, cross my heart and hope to die," the child said, holding up his hands.
- cross swords
To engage in a conflict or dispute with someone; to argue or debate.
• The two supervisors crossed swords several times during the meeting about the company's future direction.
- I'll/we'll cross that bridge when I/we come/get to it
This idiom means to postpone worrying about a potential problem until it actually occurs.
• "What if we can't find enough sponsors?" "Don't worry, we'll cross that bridge when we come to it. I am sure we will figure something out by then."
- cross my heart (and hope to die)
An expression used to emphasize the truthfulness or sincerity of a statement or promise.
• I promise you I won't tell anyone your secret, cross my heart and hope to die!
- cross someone's hand/palm with silver
To pay someone, typically a fortune teller, for a prediction of the future.
• She decided to seek out a Gypsy and cross her hand with silver to have her fortune told.
- a (heavy) cross to bear
A difficult or unpleasant situation or person that one must accept and manage, despite the challenges it presents.
• Caring for her elderly parents was a heavy cross to bear, but she never complained.
- cross the line
To behave in a manner that exceeds the limits of what is considered socially or morally acceptable.
• His comments clearly crossed the line, making many people uncomfortable.
- cross someone's path/cross paths with someone
to meet or encounter someone, often unexpectedly or by chance.
• I crossed paths with an old friend at the supermarket yesterday.
Phrasal Verbs of cross
- cross something out
to intentionally draw a line through written text, often due to a mistake
• She accidentally wrote the wrong name, so she decided to cross it out.
- cross over
to shift from one style or activity to another
• He decided to cross over from pop music to classical music.
- cross someone/something off (something)
to eliminate someone or something, like a name, from a list by striking a line through it
• During the meeting, Mia crossed her name off the list of attendees.