cross-reference

1 of 2

noun

cross-ref·​er·​ence ˈkrȯs-ˈre-f(ə-)rən(t)s How to pronounce cross-reference (audio)
-ˈre-fərn(t)s
Synonyms of cross-referencenext
: a notation or direction at one place (as in a book or filing system) to pertinent information at another place

cross-reference

2 of 2

verb

cross-referenced; cross-referencing; cross-references

transitive verb

1
: to supply with cross-references
cross-reference a book
2
: to research, verify, or organize by means of cross-references
cross-reference information

Examples of cross-reference in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Noun
But always cross-reference app suggestions against other apps as well as physical tools. — Jamie Siebrase, Denver Post, 8 May 2026 The village’s study would also cross-reference the county’s study, officials said. — Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 12 Mar. 2026
Verb
But always cross-reference app suggestions against other apps as well as physical tools. — Jamie Siebrase, Denver Post, 8 May 2026 The village’s study would also cross-reference the county’s study, officials said. — Michelle Mullins, Chicago Tribune, 12 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cross-reference

Word History

First Known Use

Noun

1834, in the meaning defined above

Verb

1902, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cross-reference was in 1834

Rhymes for cross-reference

See All Rhymes for cross-reference

Browse Nearby Words

cross-refer
cross-reference
cross-reference code
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cross-reference.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cross-reference. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Kids Definition

cross-reference

noun
cross-ref·​er·​ence
ˈkrȯs-ˈref-ərn(t)s, 
-ˈref-(ə-)rən(t)s
: a reference made from one place to another (as in a dictionary)

More from Merriam-Webster on cross-reference

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for cross-reference

Nglish: Translation of cross-reference for Spanish Speakers

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