What does uncross mean?
Uncross is a relatively uncommon verb meaning to undo a crossing or to reverse the crossing of something. It may describe reversing crossed legs, changing the order of crossed lines, or undoing a previous crossing in another context. The word is formed from the prefix un-, meaning 'not' or 'the reversal of,' and the verb cross. Its modern usage is uncommon and often sounds formal, literary, or archaic, so speakers may prefer a more explicit expression such as 'uncross your legs' or 'straighten the lines.' Although the term appears in specialized contexts, it is not part of the usual vocabulary of most contemporary English speakers. It is nevertheless useful as a concise name for reversing an action that has left two things, people, or lines in a crossed position. The word is distinct from the much more common phrase 'cross over,' which can mean to pass from one side to another rather than to undo the fact of having crossed.
verbTo undo a crossing or reverse a previous crossing.
- To undo a crossing or reverse a previous crossing.
"The riders carefully uncrossed the horses at the marker."
"The riders carefully uncrossed the horses at the marker."
"She uncrossed her legs and turned to face him."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does uncross come from?
Uncross combines the English prefix un-, meaning 'not' or 'reverse of,' with the English verb cross. The compound belongs to the productive un- pattern found in English, in which a prefix can reverse or cancel the meaning of the word that follows it. It is related in formation to words such as uncork, untie, and unlock, although those are not etymological cognates in the strict sense. The verb was formed in English and is now rare in general use.
How uncross is actually used
Rarely used today; most speakers would use a more explicit phrase such as 'reverse the crossing' or 'uncross one's legs'.