crossfire

American  

[kraws-fahyer, kros‐] / ˈkrɔsˌfaɪər, ˈkrɒs‐ /

Or cross fire

noun

1. lines of gunfire from two or more positions or combatants crossing one another, or a single one of such lines.

2. a brisk exchange of words or opinions.

3. a situation involving conflicting claims, forces, etc.

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crossfire British  

/ ˈkrɒsˌfaɪə /

noun

1. military converging fire from one or more positions

2. a lively exchange of ideas, opinions, etc

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Etymology

Origin of crossfire

First recorded in 1855–60

Example Sentences

He added, “The farmers around here find themselves caught in the crossfire.”

From The Wall Street Journal

It wouldn’t be the first time American distillers are caught in the crossfire of a wider trade fight.

From The Wall Street Journal

But some casinos caught in the crossfire reportedly housed civilians.

From Barron's

Less than three weeks later, we were in the crossfire on Bondi Beach.

From The Wall Street Journal

"Innocent people also get caught up in the crossfire," she told public broadcaster SABC.

From BBC

Related Words

• blast
• bombardment
• fusillade
• gunfire
• hail
• salvo
• shelling
• shower
• storm
• volley