cross hair
Definition
- Noun:
- A fine line or wire in the optical system of a sighting device: A "cross hair" is one of the two thin, perpendicular lines (or wires) that intersect at the center of the reticle in an optical instrument like a telescope, microscope, or gunsight. They are used for precise aiming, targeting, or measurement.
Usage
- The singular form "cross hair" refers to one of these lines. The plural form "cross hairs" is more commonly used to refer to the intersecting pair as a single reticle.
- It is typically used in contexts involving aiming, targeting, or precise visual alignment.
Examples
- Noun:
- Align the specimen so it is centered on the cross hair in the microscope's eyepiece.
- The sniper adjusted the scope until the target was perfectly centered in his cross hairs.
Advanced Usage
- "In the cross hairs" (idiom): To be the focus of attention, criticism, or an attack. This idiom derives from the literal use of cross hairs for targeting.
- After the scandal, the CEO found himself in the cross hairs of the media.
- "To have someone/something in one's cross hairs": To be targeting or focusing intently on someone or something.
- The investigative journalist had the corrupt official in her cross hairs.
Variants and Related Words
- Crosshairs (n): The standard, more common spelling for the plural form, often treated as a single word meaning the intersecting lines collectively.
- The crosshairs in the new rifle scope are illuminated.
- Reticle (n): The broader term for the pattern of fine lines or markings (which may include cross hairs, dots, or other shapes) in the eyepiece of an optical instrument.
- Graticule (n): A network of fine lines, like a reticle, used in measuring or positioning, often in scientific instruments.
Synonyms
- Aiming point: The specific spot targeted.
- Fiducial mark: A reference mark used in optical measurements (more technical).
Related Phrases
- In the sights: A similar idiom meaning to be targeted or under scrutiny.
- The new policy is in the sights of several activist groups.
Noun
-
either of two fine mutually perpendicular lines that cross in the focus plane of an optical instrument and are use for sighting or calibration
-
he had the target in his cross hairs
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