crossback noun 11verb 1forms 3 noun11 •Two pieces on the back of an item (for attaching or bracing it) which form an "X".The seats are benches with crossbacks; the desks have movable tops, but these are to be replaced by stools and good stationary desks. — 1876 •The measurement from the outer edge of one shoulder blade to the outer edge of the other.The crossback measurements of the Chinese subjects ranged from 35.56-43.18 cm (14.00-17.00 in). — 2002 •A cross between a hybrid species and one of the original parent species.The future progress of these varieties, and of the further crosses and crossbacks, therefrom, will be watched by this observer with the utmost hope and anticipation! — 1975 •A species resulting from such a crossback.Some years ago a group of hybrids and hybrid crossbacks named the Guyencourt Hybrids was introduced. — 1990 •A play in which the player with the ball crosses to one side of the field and then doubles back to the other.Ruddey made two on a crossback and Reddey was forced along for one., after which Hachah decided to punt, which he did forthwith, the ball alighting in Hart 's arms. — 1906 •A return to the original course of action by one who previously changed to a different course of action, or the person making that return.Wellborn said it might not be so much "crossovers" as "crossbacks" — Republicans returning to the party fold after their 1972 flirtation with Wallace — who would help Reagan upset Ford. — 1977 •A step in which one leg crosses behind the other.There is a constant crossback movement, first with one foot and then with the other. — 1957 •An "X"-shaped railroad crossing sign.Flashing signals would be provided at the six roads with the greatest traffic volumes, and standard crossbacks would be posted at the other crossings. — 1978 •A hairpin bend.After two years of work, the maps they are drawing show some deadends, crossbacks, and long stops — 1991 •(offensive) A Catholic.They take everything the priests got and then zzzip." Melnick ran his fingers across his throat. "Sayonara, crossbacks. — 1986 •A cross-course. verb1 •To cross a hybrid species with one of the original parent species.The rows which are as good as the resistant parent, we crossback to the high-yielding sort. — 1960 formscrossbacked · crossbacking · crossbacks
