crosshairs
UK[ˈkrɒsheəz]US[ˈkrɔːsherz]
n
The pair of fine wires or lines in the eyepiece of an optical instrument (such as a rifle scope or surveyor's level), whose intersection is used to pinpoint a target or position.
n
A state of being the focus of intense attention, scrutiny, or targeting.
Morpheme Breakdown
cross
hairs
cross
cross
hairs
hairs
Etymology
The term "crosshairs" is a modern compound from the 19th century, born from the practical world of optics and weaponry. It literally describes the intersecting fine wires or lines, originally made from spider silk or actual hair strands, placed in the reticle of a telescopic sight. The first element, "cross," directly references the cruciform shape created by their intersection, while "hairs" vividly captures their extreme fineness and delicacy. Over time, the concrete image of the targeting mechanism evolved into a powerful metaphor, placing any person or object figuratively "in the crosshairs" to signify they are the precise focus of an attack, criticism, or intense observation.
Analysis
Structure: cross (cross) + hairs (hairs)
- cross: From Old English 'cros', from Old Norse 'kross', from Old Irish 'cros', from Latin 'crux, crucis' (a cross, torture stake). In this compound, it denotes the intersecting shape.
- hairs: From Old English 'hær' (hair). In this compound, it metaphorically refers to the fine, thread-like lines.
Examples
The sniper aligned the target precisely where the crosshairs met.
After the scandal, the CEO found herself directly in the crosshairs of the media.
Adjust the focus until the crosshairs in the microscope are sharp and clear.