crosswise I. \ˈ ̷ ̷ˌ ̷ ̷\adverb Etymology: Middle English croswise, from cros cross + -wise 1.archaic: in the form or figure of a cross < a chapel built crosswise > 2.: so as to cross something : across < placed crosswise > 3.: in a way contrary to what is right or purposed < things are going crosswise > II. adjective 1.: traverse, crossing < a crosswise street > 2.: diagonal < a crosswise brace >