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Showing results for cross-train. Search instead for cross-grain.

cross-train

American  
[kraws-treyn, kros-] / ˈkrɔsˈtreɪn, ˈkrɒs- /

verb (used with object)

  1. to train (a worker, athlete, etc.) to be proficient at different, usually related, skills, tasks, jobs, etc.


verb (used without object)

  1. (of an athlete) to train in more than one sport.

  2. to learn different, usually related, tasks, skills, jobs, etc.

Etymology

Origin of cross-train

First recorded in 1980–85

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

But the organization didn’t seriously explore the idea until the end of last season, when they started having him cross-train to see how he’d fare.

From Los Angeles Times Jul. 28, 2025

Instead, it recommends that you reduce your carb and sweets intake for two weeks and cross-train.

From The Verge May 11, 2022

You’ll want to cross-train to keep your body healthy, which can include things like $20 yoga classes, and if you get injured, there could be physical therapy bills.

From Slate Jul. 22, 2019

Some coaches will tell you to take full days off or to cross-train, Urbanski says.

From Seattle Times Mar. 27, 2017

"It has got to wait at Layton's Heath for a cross-train; and if that don't keep its time—and it never do—this one can't."

From Trevlyn Hold by Wood, Mrs. Henry

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