cross paths

phrase

: to meet especially by chance
crossed paths with an old friend on a business trip

Examples of cross paths 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.
Simultaneously, Fumiko and Emi cross paths at the library, where the revelation that the family at least tangentially responsible for her son’s death now have an adorable little sprog of their own, threatens to send Emi into an emotional tailspin. — James Marsh, Variety, 29 Oct. 2026 In an office, the two of them would likely have crossed paths, enabling an informal mentoring relationship. — Lynn Godfrey, Forbes.com, 26 Oct. 2026 If an employee had occasion to cross paths with him, Casey would likely have introduced himself by his first name, shaken the person’s hand, and recollected a past encounter or shown an interest in what the employee was doing. — Marc Levinson, Fortune, 25 Oct. 2026 The reference was the caravanserai, a historic stopping place where travelers crossed paths before moving on. — Footwear News, 22 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for cross paths

Word History

First Known Use

1872, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of cross paths was in 1872

Rhymes for cross paths

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Browse Nearby Words

crosspatch
cross paths
cross peen
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Cross paths.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cross%20paths. Accessed 30 Oct. 2026.

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