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View synonyms for cross-fertilize

cross-fertilize

[ kraws-fur-tl-ahyz, kros- ]

verb (used with object)

, cross-fer·ti·lized, cross-fer·ti·liz·ing.
  1. to cause the cross-fertilization of.


verb (used without object)

, cross-fer·ti·lized, cross-fer·ti·liz·ing.
  1. to undergo cross-fertilization.

cross-fertilize

verb

  1. to subject or be subjected to cross-fertilization
“Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged” 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012


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Other Words From

  • cross-ferti·liza·ble adjective
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Word History and Origins

Origin of cross-fertilize1

First recorded in 1875–80
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Example Sentences

Professor Lake: I can't see any reason, but that if there are present any of the native trees, they are bound to cross-fertilize.

For instance, a white oak and a bur oak grow near enough for the wind to "cross-fertilize" their pistillate flowers.

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cross-fertilizationcross-file