cross-examine

[ kraws-ig-zam-in, kros- ]

verb (used with object)

, cross-ex·am·ined, cross-ex·am·in·ing.

1. to examine by questions intended to check a previous examination; examine closely or minutely.
2. Law. to examine (a witness called by the opposing side), as for the purpose of discrediting the witness's testimony.

cross-examine

verb

1. law to examine (a witness for the opposing side), as in attempting to discredit his testimony Compare examine-in-chief
2. to examine closely or relentlessly

Derived Forms

• ˌcross-exˈaminer, noun
• ˈcross-exˌamiˈnation, noun

Other Words From

• cross-ex·ami·nation noun
• cross-ex·amin·er noun
• uncross-ex·amined adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of cross-examine¹

First recorded in 1655–65

Example Sentences

When she was cross-examined Letby herself accepted the two babies must have been poisoned, but denied it was done by her.

From BBC

Mesloh believes Harris’ natural rhetorical style is more lawyerly, when she can deliver a methodical case as if cross-examining a witness in front of a jury.

From Los Angeles Times

Referring to previous investigations which were rejected by the family, she said the witnesses "weren’t cross-examined" and in some cases were not questioned at all.

From BBC

The appeals court ruled that the trial judge also erred in ruling that prosecutors could cross-examine Weinstein about uncharged and decades-old allegations if he decided to testify.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump’s legal team was also allowed to dispute evidence, cross-examine witnesses called by opposing counsel, and raise questions of law and fact throughout the trial—all of which they did aggressively and comprehensively.

From Salon