cross-fertilize

[ kraws-fur-tl-ahyz, kros- ]

verb (used with object)

, cross-fer·ti·lized, cross-fer·ti·liz·ing.

1. to cause the cross-fertilization of.

verb (used without object)

, cross-fer·ti·lized, cross-fer·ti·liz·ing.

1. to undergo cross-fertilization.

cross-fertilize

verb

1. to subject or be subjected to cross-fertilization

Other Words From

• cross-ferti·liza·ble adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of cross-fertilize¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

But the line behind her, filled with a generation of comics who’ve managed to cross-fertilize standup and with a contemporary, queer sensibility, is growing rapidly, and comedy’s evolving apparatus can barely keep pace.

From The Guardian

Mr. Ackerman said he would have preferred to have two such cultural exhibitions up at once, to “cross-fertilize,” but has not had the space.

From New York Times

The practical benefit is that the multiple projects cross-fertilize each other.

From Time

Our annual flagship Techonomy conference gathers leaders of tech, business, government, science, academia and NGOs to cross-fertilize and share both enthusiasm and alarm at the pace of tech-driven transformation.

From Forbes

"Now we can get people together from all over the world and these people can cross-fertilize each other," Munger said.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• crossbreed
• hybridize
• interbreed
• mix