cross-bind

transitive verb

1
: to bind or grip (a creeping railroad rail) by placing the outside spikes in advance of inside ones in the direction of creep so that any movement in the tie end caused by the creeping rail will cramp both the inside and outside spikes against the rail
2
: to arrange (spikes) in such a way as to cross-bind a railroad rail

Word History

Etymology

cross entry 5

The Ultimate Dictionary Awaits

Expand your vocabulary and dive deeper into language with Merriam-Webster Unabridged.

  1. Expanded definitions
  2. Detailed etymologies
  3. Advanced search tools
  4. All ad-free

Discover what makes Merriam-Webster Unabridged the essential choice for true word lovers.

Start Your Free Trial Now

Dictionary Entries Near cross-bind

Cite this Entry

“Cross-bind.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cross-bind. Accessed 22 Dec. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!