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.

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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

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Other Word Forms

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

Etymology

Origin of cross-examine

First recorded in 1655–65

Example Sentences

Ruemmler told the Journal that she never drafted a letter, represented Epstein or was asked to cross-examine victims.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 20, 2026

Skaggs’ lawyers, however, pointed out that the defense has taken longer to cross-examine witnesses than it took them to conduct the direct examinations.

From Los Angeles Times • Nov. 25, 2025

The trial continued, and on 24 March Stephen Leslie KC was brought in to cross-examine Mr Perks - a measure made to provide balance to the prosecution case.

From BBC • Apr. 8, 2025

“As laid out by Jack Smith in his report, the evidence here seems very strong, but, of course, a defendant would have an opportunity to cross-examine every witness and present his own defense,” McQuade said.

From Salon • Jan. 14, 2025

Mom walks him out, and before she can return to cross-examine me, I’ve escaped to my room with my cell phone.

From "The Running Dream" by Wendelin Van Draanen