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.

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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

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

Eight months later, at his first NFL training camp in Richmond, line coach Bill Callahan asked the team’s center, Spencer Long, to help cross-train Roullier at interior positions.

From Washington Post • Oct. 29, 2021

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

"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