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Definition of "cross-examine" [cross•-ex•am•ine]

  • To question (a person) closely, especially with regard to answers or information given previously. (verb-transitive)
  • Law To question (a witness already examined by the opposing side). (verb-transitive)
  • To question a person closely. (verb-intransitive)

American Heritage(R) Dictionary of the English Language, Fifth Edition. Copyright (c) 2011 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. All rights reserved.

Use "cross-examine" in a sentence
  • "More recently, Mr. Amendola vowed to attend the preliminary hearing, on Tuesday, to cross-examine alleged victims and garner information he could later use to attack their credibility."
  • "On the point of discovery, it was noted that although the issue of Facebook documents came to life only after the discovery period ended, once the Plaintiff submitted supplementary affidavit evidence the Defendant had the right to cross-examine to discern what kind of evidence existed."
  • "The process mirrors a judicial process by affording an accused student the right to be represented by counsel, and the right to call and cross-examine witnesses."