crossword

noun

cross·​word ˈkrȯs-ˌwərd How to pronounce crossword (audio)
: a puzzle in which words are filled into a pattern of numbered squares in answer to correspondingly numbered clues and in such a way that the words read across and down

Examples of crossword in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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In perhaps the most exciting development of the new year, STAT has launched a daily mini crossword. Elaine Chen, STAT, 6 Jan. 2026 Puzzles and brain games Jigsaw puzzles, logic games and crosswords are getting renewed attention as people look for screen-free ways to unwind indoors. Kelly McGreal, FOXNews.com, 3 Jan. 2026 Over a year and change, Sondheim constructed forty-two cryptic crosswords for the magazine. Michael Schulman, New Yorker, 15 Dec. 2025 If the answer is yes, check out four books that were released this week, which range from a deep dive into crosswords to a posthumous collection of short stories. Brittney Melton, NPR, 28 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for crossword

Word History

First Known Use

1925, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of crossword was in 1925

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Cite this Entry

“Crossword.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/crossword. Accessed 15 Jan. 2026.

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