cross-pollination

noun

cross-pol·​li·​na·​tion ˌkrȯs-ˌpä-lə-ˈnā-shən 

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

This cross-pollination of ideas is what keeps NYC’s cultural energy so vibrant and mirrors how my late wife Isabel and I existed for 50 years in that magical space between art and fashion, not prioritizing one over the other but enjoying its intoxicating rare blend. —Lisa Lockwood, WWD, 10 Mar. 2025

Because of cross-pollination, both intentional and serendipitous, flavor profiles can blend so Sugar-Berry or Honey-Berry can emerge. —The San Diego Union Tribune, San Diego Union-Tribune, 8 Mar. 2025

Use technology to bring people together, encourage cross-pollination of ideas and create projects that bring together people with different skills and backgrounds. —Sam Lawrence, Forbes, 24 Feb. 2025

There are countless examples of cross-pollination within or across disciplines that lead to discovery. —Erik Klemetti, Discover Magazine, 24 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for cross-pollination

• abbreviation
• abomination
• acceleration
• accentuation
• accommodation
• accreditation
• acculturation
• accumulation
• acetylation
• adjudication
• administration
• adulteration

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