cross-pollination

noun

cross-pol·​li·​na·​tion ˌkrȯs-ˌpä-lə-ˈnā-shən How to pronounce cross-pollination (audio)
1
: the transfer of pollen from one flower to the stigma of another
2
: cross-fertilization sense 2
cross-pollination of fantasy and realism

Examples of cross-pollination in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This sort of cross-pollination between knowledgeable employees and new adopters creates a better balance of skills and promotes knowledge transfer, leading to more modern, safe, reliable and sustainable operations. Alvaro Rozo, Forbes, 10 Jan. 2025 This seems like a smart, more nuanced take on history than the Civilization series has typically offered — less deterministic and one that emphasizes the cross-pollination of societies rather than raw totalitarian might. Lewis Gordon, Vulture, 8 Jan. 2025 Fortunately, the exhibitions presented under the aegis of PST ART, through their rigorous investigation into centuries of cross-pollination between art and science, reveal all that is elided by the ahistorical theme. Michaëla De Lacaze Mohrmann, Artforum, 1 Jan. 2025 Since 2019, Olson and Munger have been able to reintroduce Rosen rye, a kind of winter rye, back to South Manitou Island, where it was once grown in isolation to prevent cross-pollination, which can reduce the quality of the grain. Caitlin Looby, Journal Sentinel, 31 Dec. 2024 See all Example Sentences for cross-pollination 

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of cross-pollination was in 1882

Dictionary Entries Near cross-pollination

Cite this Entry

“Cross-pollination.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cross-pollination. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.

Kids Definition

cross-pollination

noun
cross-pol·​li·​na·​tion
ˌkrȯ-ˌspäl-ə-ˈnā-shən
: the transfer of pollen from one flower to the stigma of another

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