cross-examination

noun

cross-ex·​am·​i·​na·​tion ˈkrȯs-ig-ˌza-mə-ˈnā-shən 

: the examination of a witness who has already testified in order to check or discredit the witness's testimony, knowledge, or credibility compare direct examination

cross-examine

ˈkrȯs-ig-ˈza-mən 

verb

cross-examiner

ˈkrȯs-ig-ˈzam-nər, 

-ˈza-mə- 

noun

Examples of cross-examination in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Collier also said the hearing lacked due processes, like cross-examination. —Eleanor Dearman, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Apr. 2026

On cross-examination, Shohat pivoted to his defense, asking Perera a series of questions about how Rivera and Nuhfer were not trying to normalize diplomatic relations with the Venezuelan government but instead seeking to remove Maduro from power. —Jay Weaver, Miami Herald, 10 Apr. 2026

Under cross-examination, Hanson acknowledged parts of the complaint were based on statements from Davis and two other music industry figures. —Chase Rogers, Dallas Morning News, 8 Apr. 2026

During cross-examination, Emile said Gerhardt told him the blood was from Arielle's head. —Samira Asma-Sadeque, PEOPLE, 2 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1707, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cross-examination

• acclimatisation
• acclimatization
• acidification
• actualization
• annualization
• autocorrelation
• autoregulation
• beatification
• beneficiation
• biodegradation
• biotransformation
• bureaucratization

Legal Definition

cross-examination

noun

: the examination of a witness who has already testified in order to check or discredit the witness's testimony, knowledge, or credibility see also confrontation clause compare direct examination, recross-examination, redirect examination

Note: In accordance with Rule 611 of the Federal Rules of Evidence, cross-examination should only refer to matters that were covered during direct examination or that are relevant to the witness's credibility. Anything exceeding these limits is permissible at the court's discretion. Leading questions are also ordinarily allowed on cross-examination under Rule 611.

cross-examine verb

cross-examiner noun