Definition

1. Noun:
   • A center of interest or focus: The term "crosshairs" refers to a point or subject that is receiving intense attention, scrutiny, or targeting, often in a figurative sense.
   • The intersecting lines in an optical sight: In its original, literal sense, "crosshairs" are the fine wires or lines that cross in the viewfinder of a scope, gun, or other optical device, used for precise aiming.

Usage

• The word is most commonly used in the idiomatic phrase "in the crosshairs" or "in the crosshairs of [someone/something]". This means to be the target of intense focus, criticism, investigation, or attack.
• It is a plural noun, typically used with a plural verb form when referring to the literal sight lines (e.g., "The crosshairs are aligned"). In its figurative sense, it is almost always used in the fixed phrase mentioned above.

Examples

• Figurative (Idiomatic) Use:

  • The corrupt official is now in the crosshairs of the federal investigation.
  • After the scandal, the company's CEO found himself squarely in the media's crosshairs.
  • The new policy has put our department in the crosshairs of budget cuts.

• Literal Use:

  • The hunter carefully placed the deer in the crosshairs of his rifle scope.
  • Align the crosshairs with the center of the target before you shoot.

Advanced Usage

• "In the crosshairs of": This prepositional phrase specifies the source of the focus or targeting.
  • The journalist was in the crosshairs of the authoritarian regime.
• "Squarely in the crosshairs": An intensifier emphasizing that someone or something is the direct and undeniable target.
  • The failing product line is squarely in the crosshairs for elimination.

Variants and Related Words

• Crosshair (noun, singular): Less common, but can be used to refer to a single line in the sight or, occasionally, in the same figurative sense as the plural form.
• Reticle (noun): A more technical term for the pattern of fine lines or markings (which can include crosshairs) in an optical sight.

Synonyms

• Target (n): An object of attention or attack.
• Focus (n): The center of interest or activity.
• Bullseye (n): Literally the center of a target; figuratively, the exact goal or target.

Related Phrases

• In the spotlight: Receiving a lot of public attention (often, but not always, negative).
• Under fire: Being subjected to severe criticism or attack.
• In the line of sight: Directly visible or in a position to be targeted (can be literal or figurative).

Related Idioms

• "In the crosshairs": To be the subject of intense scrutiny, criticism, or targeting.
  • With the new evidence, the suspect is firmly in the crosshairs.

Noun

1. a center of interest
   • the war on terrorism has put Saddam Hussein in the crosshairs