crossbar
UK[ˈkrɒsbɑː]US[ˈkrɔːsbɑːr]
n
A horizontal bar, especially one between two upright posts, such as on a goal or a bicycle.
n
The horizontal metal bar on a man's bicycle that joins the handlebar stem to the saddle.
Morpheme Breakdown
cross
bar
cross
across
bar
rod
Etymology
The word 'crossbar' is a transparent English compound formed from two ancient elements. 'Cross' traces back to the Latin 'crux', originally denoting a stake or torture instrument, which evolved in English to signify anything intersecting or placed transversely. 'Bar' has a murkier origin, likely entering English via Old French from a Vulgar Latin term for a barrier or rod. The compound's logic is perfectly literal: a 'crossbar' is simply a bar that is placed across something, forming a transverse member. This straightforward descriptive construction is evident in its applications, from the horizontal goalpost element to the structural frame of a bicycle.
Analysis
Structure: cross (across) + bar (rod)
cross: From Old English 'cros', ultimately from Latin 'crux' (a stake, cross). In this compound, it functions as an adjective meaning "transverse" or "lying across".
bar: From Old French 'barre', of uncertain origin, possibly from Vulgar Latin 'barra'. It functions as a noun meaning "a straight piece of wood or metal".
Examples
The football hit the crossbar and bounced back into play.
He carefully stepped over the crossbar of his old-fashioned bicycle.
The gate was secured with a heavy wooden crossbar.