transverse

1 of 2

adjective

trans·​verse tran(t)s-ˈvərs 

tranz-ˈvərs,

ˈtran(t)s-ˌvərs  ˈtranz-ˌvərs 

1

: acting, lying, or being across : set crosswise

2

: made at right angles to the long axis of the body

a transverse section

transversely adverb

transverse

2 of 2

noun

trans·​verse ˈtran(t)s-ˌvərs  ˈtranz- 

: something (such as a piece, section, or part) that is transverse

Examples of transverse in a Sentence

Adjective

The surgeon made a transverse incision across her abdomen.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

Usually, though, it would be complemented by a transverse rear bed, because a longitudinal bed layout simply wouldn't fit behind the popular tandem bathroom compartment and front dinette. —New Atlas, 9 Sep. 2025

Its ingenious design used a monocoque chassis and a transverse four-cylinder engine with the transmission relocated in the sump. —Tim Pitt, Robb Report, 30 July 2025

Noun

The yacht will also boast 11 restaurants and bars; a 66-foot saltwater pool; a spa; a fitness center; and a transverse marina offering sea access. —Nathan Diller, USA Today, 24 Sep. 2025

Usually, though, it would be complemented by a transverse rear bed, because a longitudinal bed layout simply wouldn't fit behind the popular tandem bathroom compartment and front dinette. —New Atlas, 9 Sep. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Adjective

Middle English, from Latin transversus, from trans- + -versus (as in adversus adverse)

First Known Use

Adjective

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Noun

15th century, in the meaning defined above

Phrases Containing transverse

• transverse colon
• transverse process
• transverse wave

Rhymes for transverse

• adverse
• averse
• coerce
• disburse
• disperse
• diverse
• immerse
• inverse
• obverse
• perverse
• rehearse
• reverse

Kids Definition

transverse

adjective

trans·​verse

tran(t)s-ˈvərs,

tranz-;

ˈtran(t)s-ˌvərs,

ˈtranz-

: lying or being across : set crosswise

transverse beams supporting the floor

transversely adverb

Medical Definition

transverse

adjective

trans·​verse tran(t)s-ˈvərs  tranz- 

ˈtran(t)s-ˌ,

ˈtranz-ˌ

1

: acting, lying, or being across : set crosswise

2

: made at right angles to the long axis of the body

a transverse section

transversely adverb