Definition

1. Adjective:
   • Not crossed; not placed or arranged in a crossed position: Describes something, typically limbs or lines, that are not intersecting or folded over each other.
   • Not marked with crossing lines: Specifically for checks (bank cheques), it means the check has not been marked with two parallel lines, which would typically make it payable only into a bank account.

Usage

• The primary use is to describe the physical position of limbs, especially legs or arms, that are not crossed.
• In financial contexts, it specifically modifies the noun "check" (cheque) to indicate its status.

Examples

• Physical Position: She sat with uncrossed legs during the entire meeting. The yoga instructor told us to keep our arms uncrossed to allow for better energy flow.

• Financial Context: He wrote an uncrossed check, which meant the recipient could cash it immediately. An uncrossed cheque is considered a bearer cheque and is less secure.

Advanced Usage

• "Uncrossed" vs. "Crossed": A "crossed check" has two parallel lines drawn across it, directing the bank to pay the money only into the payee's bank account. An "uncrossed check" lacks these lines and can be cashed over the counter by anyone holding it, making it riskier.
• Figurative Use (Less Common): Can be used metaphorically to describe a path or route that has not been traversed or a situation where wills have not been opposed. (This usage is poetic/archaic.)

Variants and Related Words

• Uncross (verb): To change from a crossed position to an uncrossed one.
• Crossed (adjective): The opposite state; arranged in a cross or marked with crossing lines.

Synonyms

• Unfolded: (For limbs) Not bent or folded over.
• Open: (For posture) Not closed off by crossing limbs.
• Bearer (specifically for checks): As in "bearer cheque," which is payable to the person who holds it.

Antonyms

• Crossed: Arranged in a cross; marked with intersecting lines.
• Folded: Bent over on itself.

Related Phrases/Idioms

• Keep one's fingers uncrossed: This is a playful inversion of the common idiom "keep one's fingers crossed" (for good luck). To say "I'm keeping my fingers uncrossed" humorously implies expecting bad luck or a negative outcome. It is not a standard idiom but a creative, ironic usage.

Adjective

1. not crossed
   • sitting primly with uncrossed legs
2. (of a check) not crossed