noughts-and-crosses

[nawts-uhn-kraw-siz, -kros-iz]

noun

(used with a singular verb)

1. tick-tack-toe.

noughts and crosses

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of noughts and crosses¹

First recorded in 1890–95

Example Sentences

During those little pauses and lapses of study in which men scribble abstractedly on the margins of paper, idly forming letters or noughts-and-crosses or inexpert attempts at portraiture, I myself had a way of filling my blanks at that time that may serve to explain the change that had more and more come over me.

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For we actually used common slates—noughts-and-crosses slates—just like charity-school children.

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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?

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

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