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

Trump's attorney rigorously cross examined her but really could not undermine her on any of the essential facts.

From Salon

But he said they knew that prosecutors were going to be able to cross examine Trump on areas “that are very complicated,” because they are the subject of legal appeals.

From Seattle Times

When defense attorney Emil Bove got a chance to cross examine the past and present Trump Organization accountants, he focused on establishing that neither worked directly with the former president.

From Salon

Mr Coyne was instructed as an expect witness in the case - this time for the other side - where he was cross examined in court for four days.

From BBC

Sassoon, who cross examined Bankman-Fried late last week and early this week, said Bankman-Fried wanted to be U.S. president some day but first wanted to have the biggest cryptocurrency exchange in the world.

From Seattle Times