cross hair

or crosshair

noun

1. Also called cross wire. one of the fine wires or fibers, strands of spider web, or the like, crossing in a focal plane of an optical instrument to center a target or object or to define a line of sight.
2. one of the marks that aid in the positioning of overlaying images for correct registration in printing. Compare register ( def 11b ).

Word History and Origins

Origin of cross hair¹

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

After the cross-hair indicators and the level have been attached to the camera, adjustments are necessary.

From Project Gutenberg

If not, the difference, or "error," is found between the two vertical distances from the cross hair to the two stake tops.

From Project Gutenberg

All that remains is to make the horizontal cross hair parallel with the cross level.

From Project Gutenberg

The "radius of measurement" is the distance between the front face of the revolving mirror and the cross-hair of the micrometer.

From Project Gutenberg

Then the screw was turned till the cross-hair bisected the deflected image of the slit.

From Project Gutenberg