noun
crossword
KROS-wurd
Crossword (noun) means a word puzzle in which answers are filled into a grid of squares based on numbered clues, reading across and down. Example: “She does the crossword in the newspaper every morning.”
noun
1
A word puzzle in which answers are filled into a grid of squares based on numbered clues, reading across and down.
"She does the crossword in the newspaper every morning."
"He got stuck on the last clue of the crossword."
How to use crossword
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA classic grid puzzle where you fill in words based on clues, crossing horizontally and vertically.
Common pairings
solve a crossword
crossword puzzle
crossword clue
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Word forms
- Plural
- crosswords
Fill the gap
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She does the _____ in the newspaper every morning.
Etymology
Formed from "cross" plus "word." The modern crossword puzzle was invented in 1913 by Arthur Wynne; the name "crossword" appeared shortly after, possibly as a shortened form of his original term "word-cross."
Class of 1913
crossword joined the language around 1913.
See the full Class of 1913 →
Synonyms
View more →
crossword puzzle
Frequently asked questions
What does “crossword” mean?
The word “crossword” means a word puzzle in which answers are filled into a grid of squares based on numbered clues, reading across and down. In plain terms, a classic grid puzzle where you fill in words based on clues, crossing horizontally and vertically.
How do you pronounce “crossword”?
“Crossword” is pronounced KROS-wurd (/ˈkɹɒswɜː(ɹ)d/ in IPA).
How do you use “crossword” in a sentence?
Here is “crossword” used in a sentence: “She does the crossword in the newspaper every morning.”
What is another word for “crossword”?
Words with a similar meaning to “crossword” include crossword puzzle.
What part of speech is “crossword”?
“Crossword” is a noun.
Where does the word “crossword” come from?
The word “crossword” dates back to around 1913. Formed from "cross" plus "word." The modern crossword puzzle was invented in 1913 by Arthur Wynne; the name "crossword" appeared shortly after, possibly as a shortened form of his original term "word-cross.".
