Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

cross-examine

verb
/ˌkrɔs ɪɡˈzæmɪn/
Definition
To question a witness in a legal trial or hearing in a way that challenges their testimony.
Examples
  • The attorney cross-examined the witness to uncover inconsistencies in their story.
  • During the trial, the prosecution’s goal was to cross-examine the defendant effectively.
  • Cross-examining a witness can reveal significant information that was not initially disclosed.
Meaning
Cross-examining is typically done to test the reliability and credibility of the witness’s statements.
Synonyms
  • interrogate
  • question
  • grill
  • probe