# crossfire

/ˈkɹɔsˌfaɪɹ/ (US) · /kɹˈɒsfaɪə/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/crossfire
Updated: 2026-05-09

## Definition

gunfire coming from two or more different directions that crosses over an area. It also describes a situation where you are caught between two groups who are arguing.

For teachers: gunfire from two or more positions crossing the same area. Often used metaphorically to describe a situation where a neutral party is affected by a conflict between two opposing sides.

## Examples

- The reporter was caught in the crossfire during the protest.
- Innocent civilians often suffer the most when they are trapped in the crossfire of a local conflict.
- The junior manager found himself in the crossfire of a bitter dispute between the CEO and the board of directors, making his position increasingly untenable.

## Usage notes

- Commonly used in the idiomatic phrase 'caught in the crossfire'.

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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.