noughts-and-crosses

American  

[nawts-uhn-kraw-siz, -kros-iz] / ˈnɔts ənˈkrɔ sɪz, -ˈkrɒs ɪz /

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. tick-tack-toe.

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noughts and crosses British  

noun

1. US and Canadian term: tick-tack-toe.   crisscross.  (functioning as singular) a game in which two players, one using a nought, "O", the other a cross, "X", alternately mark one square out of nine formed by two pairs of crossed lines, the winner being the first to get three of his symbols in a row

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Etymology

Origin of noughts-and-crosses

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

True, noughts-and-crosses might be indulged in on flyleaves of prayer-books while the Litany dragged its slow length along; but what balm or what solace could be found for the Sermon?

From The Golden Age by Grahame, Kenneth

I'd back him at cat's-cradle, and I dare say he plays a very fair game at noughts-and-crosses.

From Love and Lucy by Hewlett, Maurice Henry