crosstown
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈkrɔsˌtaʊn//
KK: /ˈkrɔsˌtaʊn/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that runs or extends across a city or town, often used to refer to streets or traffic that connect different parts of the area.
Example
The crosstown bus makes it easy to travel from one side of the city to the other.
Conversation
Did you hear about the new crosstown bus route?
Yeah, I heard it's supposed to make commuting a lot easier.
I think it will help a lot with crosstown traffic during rush hour.
Absolutely! Less time stuck in traffic means more time for us to hang out.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
transverse
crosswise
intersecting
Antonyms
longitudinal
parallel
inline
adverb
Definition
In a manner that goes across a city or town.
Example
We decided to drive crosstown to avoid the traffic on the main road.
Conversation
Hey, do you know how to get to the new cafe crosstown?
Yeah, I think you just need to take the main road and go straight.
That sounds easy, but isn't it a bit far to travel crosstown?
Root Explanation
Crosstown → The word is formed from "cross" (from Old English "cros", meaning a structure or symbol of Christianity) and "town" (from Old English "tun", meaning an enclosure or settlement). The term "crosstown" refers to a location or area that is situated across or through a town.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'cross' as something that goes across and a 'town' as a settlement — together, 'crosstown' means an area that goes across a town.
Visually Confused Words
croton