cross-link

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

noun

1. a bond, atom, or group linking the chains of atoms in a polymer, protein, or other complex organic molecule.

verb (used with object)

1. to attach by a cross-link.

cross-link

noun

1. a chemical bond, atom, or group of atoms that connects two adjacent chains of atoms in a large molecule such as a polymer or protein

Other Words From

• cross-linking noun
• cross-linka·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of cross-link¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

Adding salt and water as a solvent then causes the fibrils to cross-link and form a gel.

From Science Daily

The broken molecules grab oxygen from the air and begin to cross-link with one another.

From Seattle Times

This lets the starches fully swell and sets up the amylose spread and cross-link.

From Washington Post

Kneading dough is an integral part of bread baking; it helps cross-link proteins to create a strong gluten network, which helps loaves expand without bursting.

From Salon

Researchers commonly use chemicals to cross-link silk polymer chains, which helps to maintain a 3-D structure, but Mandal's group found a blend of silks and gelatin that works without many of those chemicals.

From Scientific American