What does crosshair mean?
The term 'crosshair' refers to a small cross-shaped mark or symbol, typically used as a target or aiming point, especially in shooting or archery. It is often used in rifle scopes and other aiming devices to help the user aim at a target. In video games and other contexts, the term 'crosshair' can refer to a similar aiming point or target. The term is derived from the French word 'carre', meaning 'square', and is related to other words such as 'carré' and 'carreer'. The term is widely used in both British and American English, and is a useful term for anyone involved in shooting, archery, or video games.
nounA small cross-shaped mark or symbol, typically used as a target or aiming point, especially in shooting or archery.
- A small cross-shaped mark or symbol, typically used as a target or aiming point.
"The crosshair on the rifle scope helped the hunter aim at the deer."
"The crosshair on the rifle scope helped the hunter aim at the deer."
"The video game used a crosshair to indicate the player's target."
The plural form 'crosshairs' is used to refer to multiple aiming points or targets.
"The video game used multiple crosshairs to indicate the player's targets."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of crosshair
The term 'crosshair' is derived from the French word 'carre', meaning 'square'. This word is related to other words such as 'carré' and 'carreer', which are also derived from the same root. The term 'crosshair' was likely adopted into English from French in the 19th century, and has since become a widely used term in both British and American English.
Usage notes
The term 'crosshair' is often used in shooting and archery to refer to the small cross-shaped mark or symbol used as a target or aiming point. It can also be used in video games and other contexts to refer to a similar aiming point or target.