crossed eyes: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal, Medical
Quick answer
What does “crossed eyes” mean?
A condition where the eyes do not align properly and point in different directions, typically inward toward the nose (strabismus).
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A condition where the eyes do not align properly and point in different directions, typically inward toward the nose (strabismus).
Used figuratively to describe a state of confusion, dizziness, or being overwhelmed, often humorously.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant difference in meaning. 'Squint' is more common in UK English for the medical condition, while 'crossed eyes' is understood but slightly more informal.
Connotations
In both varieties, it can carry a slightly humorous or childish connotation when used non-medically.
Frequency
Slightly more frequent in American English as a colloquial term.
Grammar
How to Use “crossed eyes” in a Sentence
[Subject] has/get(s) crossed eyes.[Action/Stimulus] gives [Indirect Object] crossed eyes.Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “crossed eyes” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The child would cross his eyes to make his sister laugh.
- Don't cross your eyes; they might stay that way!
American English
- He crossed his eyes for the silly photo.
- Trying to read the tiny print made me cross my eyes.
adverb
British English
- He looked cross-eyed at the confusing diagram.
- She stared cross-eyed at the tip of her nose.
American English
- He was staring cross-eyed at the optical illusion.
- She read the message cross-eyed without her glasses.
adjective
British English
- He had a crossed-eye look from concentrating too hard.
- The crossed-eye puppy was still adorable.
American English
- She gave him a cross-eyed glance of confusion.
- The old cartoon character was cross-eyed.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly humorous: 'Reading that contract gave me crossed eyes.'
Academic
Rare in formal writing. Used in medical/optometry papers as a lay descriptor.
Everyday
Common in informal description of the condition or figurative overwhelm.
Technical
The technical term is 'strabismus' (esotropia/exotropia). 'Crossed eyes' is a non-technical synonym.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “crossed eyes”
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “crossed eyes”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “crossed eyes”
- Using it as a verb (*'He crossed eyes at me' – incorrect). The correct verb form is 'to cross one's eyes'.
- Confusing it with being 'cross-eyed' (adjective).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is a neutral, descriptive term in everyday language. However, in sensitive contexts concerning disability, more clinical terms like 'strabismus' or 'eye misalignment' may be preferred.
Yes, often through glasses, vision therapy, or surgery, depending on the cause and severity. An optometrist or ophthalmologist should be consulted.
'Cross-eyed' (esotropia) means the eyes turn inward. 'Wall-eyed' (exotropia) means the eyes turn outward.
It's used hyperbolically to describe mental confusion or dizziness caused by something complex, tedious, or overwhelming, e.g., 'That spreadsheet gives me crossed eyes.'
A condition where the eyes do not align properly and point in different directions, typically inward toward the nose (strabismus).
Crossed eyes is usually informal, medical in register.
Crossed eyes: in British English it is pronounced /ˌkrɒst ˈaɪz/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌkrɔːst ˈaɪz/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[It's] enough to give you crossed eyes (expressing overwhelming complexity).”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Imagine an 'X' (a cross) drawn between someone's eyes, forcing them to look inward at the centre.
Conceptual Metaphor
CONFUSION/OVERWHELM IS PHYSICAL DISTORTION (e.g., 'My brain is crossed').
Practice
Quiz
In a formal medical context, which term is most appropriate?