cross talk

noun

1

: unwanted signals in a communication channel (as in a telephone, radio, or computer) caused by transference of energy from another circuit (as by leakage or coupling)

2

a

: conversation that does not relate to the main topic being discussed

b

: conversation or repartee engaged in for an audience

Examples of cross talk in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Normally, such cross talk is seen as interference, which radios are designed to suppress—especially digital radios with their error-correcting schemes and inherent resistance to low-level noise. — Ana I. Pérez-Neira, IEEE Spectrum, 7 Apr. 2026

But in recent years, investigators have uncovered chemical and electrical cross talk between neurons and cancer cells that powerfully fuel a tumor’s growth. — Ingrid Wickelgren, Scientific American, 14 Feb. 2025

This activates a lot of cross talk and arguing, and finally, Whitney apologizes to Lisa. — Sarah Hagi, Vulture, 25 Sep. 2024

Some of Harris’ most memorable moments in previous debates and in Senate hearings have come during cross talk. — Hadas Gold, CNN, 10 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1887, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for cross talk

• alcock
• beanstalk
• bedrock
• boardwalk
• catwalk
• cornstalk
• crosswalk
• deadlock
• feedstock
• fetlock
• flintlock
• goshawk