crossword: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
B1Informal to neutral. Most common in casual conversation, media, and leisure contexts.
Quick answer
What does “crossword” mean?
A word puzzle consisting of a grid of squares, some of which are numbered, where clues lead to words that are written across and down, intersecting at the numbered squares.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A word puzzle consisting of a grid of squares, some of which are numbered, where clues lead to words that are written across and down, intersecting at the numbered squares.
By extension, any complex problem requiring interconnected answers or pieces of information.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Spelling is consistently 'crossword'. The term 'crossword puzzle' is slightly more common in American English, while British English more readily uses the standalone 'crossword'.
Connotations
In both varieties, it connotes leisure, intelligence, and sometimes a traditional or quiet pastime. No significant difference in connotation.
Frequency
Equally common in both varieties, with similar frequency in print and digital media.
Grammar
How to Use “crossword” in a Sentence
solve + [crossword]do + [crossword]work on + [crossword][crossword] + clue[crossword] + puzzleVocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “crossword” in a Sentence
adjective
British English
- He's a crossword enthusiast.
- The crossword competition was fierce.
American English
- She has a crossword puzzle app.
- His crossword skills are impressive.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. Possibly used metaphorically: 'Solving this supply chain issue is like a complex crossword.'
Academic
Very rare, except in studies of linguistics, leisure, or cognitive science.
Everyday
Very common: discussing hobbies, newspapers, commuting activities.
Technical
Used in publishing and game development to specify a puzzle type.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “crossword”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “crossword”
- Misspelling as 'cross word' (two words).
- Using as a verb (e.g., 'I cross-worded yesterday' – incorrect).
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
A standard crossword uses straightforward definitions for its clues. A cryptic crossword uses wordplay, anagrams, double definitions, and other linguistic tricks within each clue, making it significantly more challenging.
No, 'crossword' is almost exclusively a noun. The verb form is non-standard and very rare. Use phrases like 'do a crossword' or 'solve a crossword' instead.
It is a single, closed compound word: 'crossword'. The spelling 'cross word' is incorrect.
They are called a 'crossword compiler', 'crossword setter', or 'cruciverbalist' (the latter is a more technical or enthusiast term).
A word puzzle consisting of a grid of squares, some of which are numbered, where clues lead to words that are written across and down, intersecting at the numbered squares.
Crossword is usually informal to neutral. most common in casual conversation, media, and leisure contexts. in register.
Crossword: in British English it is pronounced /ˈkrɒs.wɜːd/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈkrɔːs.wɜːrd/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “It's not my crossword. (i.e., It's not my problem to solve.)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of CROSSING WORDS in a grid. Words go ACROSS and DOWN, and they CROSS each other.
Conceptual Metaphor
A PROBLEM IS A PUZZLE (e.g., 'We need to solve the crossword of this code.'). LIFE IS A PUZZLE.
Practice
Quiz
Which of the following is the most common collocation with 'crossword'?