cross-examine

American  

[kraws-ig-zam-in, kros-] / ˈkrɔs ɪgˈzæm ɪn, ˈkrɒs- /

verb (used with object)

cross-examined, cross-examining

1. to examine by questions intended to check a previous examination; examine closely or minutely.

2. Law. to examine (a witness called by the opposing side), as for the purpose of discrediting the witness's testimony.

---

cross-examine British  

verb

1. law to examine (a witness for the opposing side), as in attempting to discredit his testimony Compare examine-in-chief

2. to examine closely or relentlessly

---

Other Word Forms

• cross-examination
  noun
• cross-examiner
  noun
• uncross-examined
  adjective

Etymology

Origin of cross-examine

First recorded in 1655–65

Example Sentences

Look into the lacerated conscience of Martin Luther before he found the Cross, examine the anxiety and gloom of Chalmers before he saw the Lamb of God, for proof that this is so.

From Sermons to the Natural Man by Shedd, William G. T. (William Greenough Thayer)