Cross Meaning
Cross Definition & Usage
A structure consisting of two intersecting pieces, typically at right angles, often used as a symbol of religion, or as a support or boundary marker.
Examples
- "She knelt in front of the cross at the altar during the service."
- "The hikers reached a clearing where a large wooden cross marked the spot."
- "The cross on the church tower could be seen from miles away."
- "He carved his initials into the wooden cross, a memento of his visit."
- "The soldier's grave was marked with a simple wooden cross."
To move across or pass over a boundary, or to intersect with something.
Examples
- "He crossed the street to avoid the traffic jam."
- "We crossed into another state after a few hours of driving."
- "She crossed the finish line with a big smile on her face."
- "The river was too wide to cross safely without a bridge."
- "I saw them cross paths earlier in the park."
Angry or upset, typically due to a perceived injustice or being inconvenienced.
Examples
- "She was really crossed after being ignored at the meeting."
- "Don’t get crossed just because things didn’t go your way."
- "His face looked crossed when he heard the news about the delay."
- "She gave him a crossed look when he interrupted her."
- "He’s crossed with me for not showing up on time."
'Cross one's fingers' means to hope for good luck or a positive outcome.
Examples
- "I'm hoping to pass the exam tomorrow. I’ll cross my fingers!"
- "We’ve made the reservation, so let's cross our fingers for good weather."
- "I’m crossing my fingers for the interview; I really want that job."
- "She crossed her fingers before the game, hoping her team would win."
- "Let’s cross our fingers and hope they like the presentation."
Cultural Context
The cross has significant religious symbolism, especially in Christianity, where it represents the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Beyond religious uses, the cross has appeared in many cultures as a symbol of life, balance, and union. Its design and representation have evolved, and it is often used in architecture, art, and public memorials.
The Crossroads of Hope
Story
The Crossroads of Hope
On a quiet evening, Sarah walked to the old church near her home, a place where she had often found peace and clarity. The large, stone cross at the church's entrance stood tall against the backdrop of the sunset, its silhouette casting a long shadow on the ground. Sarah paused for a moment, her heart heavy with uncertainty. The cross, a symbol of faith and sacrifice, had always reminded her of her purpose in life. Today, however, it seemed like a reminder of the crossroads she faced. Earlier that morning, Sarah had crossed paths with an old friend, Mark, whom she hadn’t seen in years. Their brief conversation had brought back memories of their shared past and sparked a new wave of emotions. She had been thinking about it all day, unsure if she was ready to rekindle the relationship or leave it behind. As she sat on the church steps, she crossed her fingers, hoping that the answer would come to her soon. She didn’t know if her decision would lead to happiness or heartache, but she had to make it. As the evening air grew cooler, Sarah felt a sense of peace wash over her. She understood now that sometimes, just like crossing the street, you had to take a leap of faith and trust that you would reach the other side safely. Mark’s words echoed in her mind: 'Sometimes, the toughest decisions are the ones that lead us to where we’re meant to be.' Sarah stood up, walked toward the cross, and let go of her doubts. She was ready to face whatever came next. Later that week, Sarah received a message from Mark. 'I hope you're doing well. Just wanted to say, I crossed my fingers for you, hoping everything would work out.' The simplicity of his message made her smile, and for the first time in a long while, she felt certain that she had made the right choice. And as she left the church that evening, Sarah realized that sometimes crossing paths with someone can change your whole direction, just like crossing a street leads you to a new side of life.
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