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Definition of Cross-purpose
1. Noun. A contrary aim. "At cross-purposes"
Definition of Cross-purpose
1. Noun. (idiomatic) A contrary or conflicting purpose or understanding, especially an unintentional or misconceived one. ¹
2. Noun. (dated) A conversational game, in which questions and answers are made so as to involve ludicrous combinations of ideas. ¹
¹ Source: wiktionary.com
Lexicographical Neighbors of Cross-purpose
Literary usage of Cross-purpose
Below you will find example usage of this term as found in modern and/or classical literature:
1. A Practical Dictionary of the English and German Languages by Felix Flügel (1874)
"1. cross, across, athwart, obliquely, diagonally; 2. fig. cross, to cross purpose,
from the purpose, perversely, wrong, nonsensically; ..."
Other Resources:
