cross-link

American  

[kraws-lingk, kros-, kraws-lingk, kros-] / ˈkrɔsˌlɪŋk, ˈkrɒs-, ˈkrɔsˈlɪŋk, ˈkrɒs- /

noun

1. a bond, atom, or group linking the chains of atoms in a polymer, protein, or other complex organic molecule.

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verb (used with object)

1. to attach by a cross-link.

cross-link British  

noun

1. a chemical bond, atom, or group of atoms that connects two adjacent chains of atoms in a large molecule such as a polymer or protein

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Other Word Forms

• cross-linkable adjective
• cross-linking noun

Etymology

Origin of cross-link

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

Adding salt and water as a solvent then causes the fibrils to cross-link and form a gel.

From Science Daily • May 13, 2024

The broken molecules grab oxygen from the air and begin to cross-link with one another.

From Seattle Times • Feb. 26, 2024

In theory, that allows the viral antigens to "cross-link" to many receptors on the surface of B cells.

From Science Magazine • Apr. 18, 2019

When hides are soaked in a solution of chromium, this helps to cross-link their strands of collagen proteins into a mesh, making the leather more elastic and water-resistant.

From BBC • May 22, 2015

Unlike the xylem and phloem, the veins in a leaf cross-link and loop.

From Economist • Feb. 11, 2010