3 definitions found for Cross-purpose

Cross-purpose CROSS-PURPOSE, n. A contrary purpose; contradictory system; also, a conversation in which one person does or pretends to misunderstand anothers meaning. An enigma; a riddle.

cross-purpose n 1: a contrary aim; "at cross-purposes"

Cross-purpose Cross"-pur`pose (-p?r`p?s), n. 1. A counter or opposing purpose; hence, that which is inconsistent or contradictory. --Shaftesbury. 2. pl. A conversational game, in which questions and answers are made so as to involve ludicrous combinations of ideas. --Pepys. To be at cross-purposes, to misunderstand or to act counter to one another without intending it; -- said of persons.