English Explanatory Dictionary

cross-purpose

English dictionary entry

Meanings

noun
  1. A contrary or conflicting purpose or understanding, especially an unintentional or misconceived one.

Pronunciation

en-au-cross-purpose.ogg

Word forms

cross-purpose cross-purposes cross purpose

Etymology

Attested (in the plural form) since the 1660s, originally meaning ‘contradictory intentions.’

Derived words

cross-purposes at cross-purposes
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