crosscurrent

[ kraws-kur-uhnt, -kuhr-, kros- ]

noun

1. a current, as in a stream, moving across the main current.
2. Often crosscurrents. a conflicting tendency or movement.

crosscurrent

/ ˈkrɒsˌkʌrənt /

noun

1. a current in a river or sea flowing across another current
2. a conflicting tendency moving counter to the usual trend

Other Words From

• crosscurrent·ed adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of crosscurrent¹

First recorded in 1590–1600; cross- + current

Example Sentences

"There's a lot of crosscurrents here, in terms of voters thinking about the economy," said Mark Zandi, chief economist at Moody's Analytics.

From BBC

The policy, though, has gotten caught in fierce crosscurrents about how to navigate the economic and political trade-offs demanded by climate change in a world where power is shifting and international institutions are fracturing.

From New York Times

Mr. Lankford has previously found himself swept up in the crosscurrents of Republican politics.

From New York Times

Biden’s ability to navigate those crosscurrents will be critical to his reelection effort as he tries to energize Democrats this fall, especially young people who are particularly concerned about the war’s effects.

From Seattle Times

Its name appears to refer to the perils of navigating the narrow waterway, which is rife with crosscurrents, unpredictable winds, reefs, and shoals.

From National Geographic

Related Words

• atmosphere
• aura
• feeling
• hint
• inclination
• indication
• intimation
• murmur
• overtone
• sense
• tinge
• undertone
• undertow