noun

crossfire

KROS-feye-uh

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Crossfire (noun) means Gunfire coming from two or more directions, especially endangering anyone caught between the shooters. Example: “A bystander was hit in the crossfire during the shootout.”

noun

Gunfire coming from two or more directions, especially endangering anyone caught between the shooters.

"A bystander was hit in the crossfire during the shootout."

A heated exchange between opposing sides in an argument.

"She found herself caught in the crossfire of her parents' divorce."

How to use crossfire

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishLiterally gunfire from multiple directions, or figuratively being caught between two arguing parties.

Common pairings

caught in the crossfire political crossfire

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C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

C2 · Advanced serendipity Fortunate discoveries made entirely by accident.

Gen Z slang rizz Charm — the ability to attract a romantic interest.

B2 · Intermediate empathy The capacity to share another person’s feelings.

C1 · Advanced nonchalant Casually calm and relaxed; unconcerned.

Internet slang delulu Delusional — believing something against the odds.

Etymology nostalgia Greek nostos “return home” + algos “pain”.

Word forms

Plural: crossfires

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A bystander was hit in the _____ during the shootout.

Etymology

Formed from "cross-" plus "fire," describing gunfire directed across a shared line of attack.

Rhymes for crossfire

ire fire wire tire lire dire hire mire sire afire Zaire spire

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Frequently asked questions

What does “crossfire” mean?

The word “crossfire” means gunfire coming from two or more directions, especially endangering anyone caught between the shooters. In plain terms, literally gunfire from multiple directions, or figuratively being caught between two arguing parties.

How do you pronounce “crossfire”?

“Crossfire” is pronounced KROS-feye-uh (/ˈkɹɔːsfaɪɹ/ in IPA).

How do you use “crossfire” in a sentence?

Here is “crossfire” used in a sentence: “A bystander was hit in the crossfire during the shootout.”

What part of speech is “crossfire”?

“Crossfire” is a noun.

How many meanings does “crossfire” have?

“Crossfire” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: gunfire coming from two or more directions, especially endangering anyone caught between the shooters.