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

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

“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

The appeals court ruled that the trial judge also erred in ruling that prosecutors could cross-examine Weinstein about uncharged and decades-old allegations if he decided to testify.

From Los Angeles Times • Sep. 9, 2024

The Harris campaign had wanted the mics to stay hot to lure Trump into being an overbearing jerk who consistently spoke over her and to allow Harris to cross-examine the former president.

From Slate • Sep. 7, 2024

Nels Gudmundsson now tottered to his feet in order to cross-examine Sterling Whitman.

From "Snow Falling on Cedars: A Novel" by David Guterson