crossfire

Or cross fire

[kraws-fahyer, kros‐]

noun

1. lines of gunfire from two or more positions or combatants crossing one another, or a single one of such lines.

2. a brisk exchange of words or opinions.

3. a situation involving conflicting claims, forces, etc.

crossfire

/ ˈkrɒsˌfaɪə /

noun

1. military converging fire from one or more positions

2. a lively exchange of ideas, opinions, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of crossfire¹

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

Locals and tribal communities in central and eastern India have long found themselves caught in a crossfire between Maoist rebels and government security forces.

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Truck manufacturers argue they are “caught in the crossfire” between conflicting directives, with California requiring adherence to emissions rules while the U.S.

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It's not the first time innocent people have been caught in the crossfire.

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Another participant said she fears getting caught in the crossfire of warring gangs in her neighborhood and so won’t sit outside to get fresh air, no matter how hot it gets indoors.

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But Nvidia, which has been caught in the crossfire of a trade war between the US and China, said it "continued to work through geopolitical issues" and its shares fell in after-hours trading.

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