outcross

[ verb out-kraws, -kros; noun out-kraws, -kros ]

verb (used with object)

1. to cross (animals or plants) by breeding individuals of different strains but, usually, of the same breed.
2. to produce (a hybrid) by this method.

noun

1. a hybrid animal or plant so produced.
2. an act of outcrossing.

outcross

verb

1. to breed (animals or plants of the same breed but different strains)

noun

1. an animal or plant produced as a result of outcrossing
2. an act of outcrossing

Word History and Origins

Origin of outcross¹

First recorded in 1885–90; out- + cross

Related Words

• amalgam
• combination