How Do You Spell CROSSWISE?

Pronunciation: [kɹˈɒswa͡ɪz] (IPA)

The word "crosswise" is spelled with the IPA (International Phonetic Alphabet) transcription of /ˈkrɒs.waɪz/. The first part, "cross," is pronounced with a short 'o' sound and a hissing 's' sound. The second part, "wise," has a long 'i' sound and a hissing 'z' sound. Together, they create a word that means "in a way that goes or lies across." The spelling and pronunciation of "crosswise" make it a unique and useful word in many contexts, from construction to math to language.

CROSSWISE Meaning and Definition

  1. The term "crosswise" is an adverb used to describe something that is situated or moving in a direction perpendicular or at an angle to a particular reference point or line. It refers to something positioned or oriented in a way that creates a cross, forming an intersecting pattern.

    In a literal sense, "crosswise" can refer to the arrangement of objects or structures that are set across each other rather than parallel. For instance, if two wooden planks are laid across each other in a diagonal manner, they are placed crosswise. Similarly, when a person traverses a room by moving from one corner to the opposite diagonally, they are moving crosswise.

    Figuratively, "crosswise" is used to describe behaviors or patterns that are contrary or opposing to what is expected, logical, or appropriate. For example, if a person's actions or statements contradict their earlier stance, they are acting crosswise. This adverb can also suggest an obstruction or interference in a harmonious or smooth process, indicating a disruption or complication.

    In conclusion, "crosswise" primarily denotes something positioned, moving, or oriented perpendicularly or diagonally in relation to a reference point or line. It encompasses both the literal arrangement of objects as well as the figurative defiance or contradiction of expected norms or patterns.

  2. Across; in the form of a cross; to play cross and pile, to play at tossing up money which had a cross on one side and a pile or pillar on the other.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for CROSSWISE

Etymology of CROSSWISE

The word crosswise is derived from the combination of two parts: cross and the suffix -wise.

The term cross dates back to Old English and ultimately has its origins in the Proto-Germanic word krusaz. It is related to the Latin word crux and also found in other Germanic languages like German (Kreuz) and Dutch (kruis). Cross refers to the act or shape of intersecting or crossing over.

The suffix -wise is used to form adverbs indicating direction or manner. It comes from the Old English -wisan, which is a remnant of the Proto-Germanic -wisis. This suffix made its way into English through various Germanic languages.

Therefore, crosswise combines the root cross with the suffix -wise to convey the meaning of in a cross or transverse direction.

Similar spelling words for CROSSWISE

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