crosspiece: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2/RareTechnical, Formal
Quick answer
What does “crosspiece” mean?
A piece of material, such as wood or metal, that is placed or fixed across something, typically to provide support or to connect parts.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A piece of material, such as wood or metal, that is placed or fixed across something, typically to provide support or to connect parts.
A horizontal or transverse structural element in a framework, apparatus, or object.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No significant differences in meaning or usage. The word is equally uncommon in both varieties.
Connotations
Neutral; evokes construction, carpentry, or framework.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both varieties, confined to technical or descriptive contexts.
Grammar
How to Use “crosspiece” in a Sentence
The [NOUN] is reinforced with a crosspiece.A crosspiece [VERB] the two uprights.Vocabulary
Collocations
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Unlikely usage. Might appear in procurement for construction materials.
Academic
Used in engineering, architecture, or archaeology texts describing structures.
Everyday
Very rare. Might be used in DIY or furniture assembly contexts.
Technical
Standard term in carpentry, joinery, scaffolding, and frame construction.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “crosspiece”
- Using 'crosspiece' to mean a small crossing or intersection (use 'crossroads').
- Misspelling as 'cross piece' (usually one word).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
It is almost always written as one word: 'crosspiece'.
No, it is almost exclusively used for tangible, structural components.
They are very similar. 'Crossbar' is more common and can be used in broader contexts (e.g., sports, vehicles). 'Crosspiece' often implies it is part of a larger, static framework.
For general English, it is a low-priority, C2-level word. It is essential only for specific technical fields like carpentry or engineering.
A piece of material, such as wood or metal, that is placed or fixed across something, typically to provide support or to connect parts.
Crosspiece is usually technical, formal in register.
Crosspiece: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrɒspiːs/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkrɔːspiːs/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “[No common idioms]”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a CROSS on a PIECE of wood. A crosspiece is a piece that goes across.
Conceptual Metaphor
STRUCTURE IS A SKELETON (the crosspieces are like ribs).
Practice
Quiz
In which of these objects are you most likely to find a crosspiece?