cross-examine

[kraws-ig-zam-in, kros-]

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

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of cross-examine¹

First recorded in 1655–65

Example Sentences

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

Read more on Los Angeles Times

He changed his version of events on multiple occasions and much of his testimony crumbled when cross-examined.

Read more on BBC

A climactic scene between these two actors in which Jackson cross-examines Göring is a riveting piece of courtroom drama.

Read more on Los Angeles Times

The trial also made national news after Ortega cross-examined Border Patrol sector chief Gregory Bovino about previous comments he had made describing undocumented immigrants as “scum, filth and trash.”

Read more on Los Angeles Times

However, it has attracted criticism from the families of patients, who do not think that hospital managers have been rigorously cross-examined.

Read more on BBC