cross-purpose Meaning, Definition & Usage

  1. noun a contrary aim
    • at cross-purposes

WordNet


Cross"-pur`pose noun
Definitions
  1. A counter or opposing purpose; hence, that which is inconsistent or contradictory. Shaftesbury.
  2. pl. A conversational game, in which questions and answers are made so as to involve ludicrous combinations of ideas. Pepys.

Webster 1913