CROSS GRAINED Meaning and
Definition
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Cross grained is an adjective that refers to a person's temperament or behavior when they display stubbornness, contrary attitudes, or a predisposition to be difficult or uncooperative. It can also describe the texture or nature of materials, particularly wood, where the fibers run in opposing directions, making it difficult to work with or causing it to be more prone to splitting.
In terms of a person's behavior, a cross grained individual often exhibits resistance to authority, insistence on doing things their own way, or a tendency to argue against or oppose others' suggestions or requests. This stubbornness can manifest in various contexts, such as at work, within a group setting, or in personal relationships. People who are cross grained may find it challenging to compromise, often holding firmly to their own beliefs or opinions.
When referring to materials like wood, cross grained indicates that the fibers within the wood are running in opposing directions, making it more susceptible to warping, splitting, or breaking. This type of wood is problematic for woodworking or construction projects, as it can be difficult to manipulate and may not retain its structural integrity. Carpenters or craftsmen may encounter challenges when attempting to shape or work with cross grained wood due to its inherent stubbornness and resistance to being shaped or smoothed.
Common Misspellings for CROSS GRAINED
- cross-grainedd
- cros-grained
- crossgrained
- cross-grined
- cross-graind
- cross-grained
- Crouss grained
- Crorss grained
- Cruss grained
Etymology of CROSS GRAINED
The phrase "cross grained" is derived from the combination of two words: "cross" and "grained".
The term "cross" has roots in Old English and is related to the word "crucifix" and the Latin word "crux", both of which refer to a cross. It suggests a crossing or intersection, conveying the idea of conflicting or contrary tendencies.
The word "grained" comes from the Old English word "graeg", meaning gray, which later evolved to "grain" referring to the texture of wood. In this context, "grain" denotes the direction of the fibers in a piece of wood.
When combined, "cross grained" metaphorically alludes to wood with fibers running against each other, making it difficult to work with. The concept of being "cross-grained" was eventually extended to describe a person who is uncooperative, stubborn, or contrary in their behavior.
