# crossbar

/kɹˈɒsbɑː/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/crossbar
Updated: 2026-05-26

## Definition

the horizontal bar that is part of a goal in sports like soccer or hockey. It is the top part of the frame that players must get the ball or puck over to score.

For teachers: the horizontal bar forming the upper edge of a goal frame in various sports. It serves as the upper boundary of the scoring area.

## Examples

- The ball hit the crossbar and stayed out.
- The striker shot the ball with such power that it struck the crossbar and bounced back into the field.
- In professional soccer, the crossbar is typically made of metal and must be precisely level to ensure that any ball touching it is ruled as a goal.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.