cru·ci·ate I. \ˈkrüshēˌāt\adjective Etymology: New Latin cruciatus, from Latin cruci-, crux cross + -atus -ate : cross-shaped or marked with a cross < a cruciate bandage > a.: having leaves or petals in the form of a cross : cruciform b.: crossing — used especially of the wings of some insects • cru·ci·ate·lyadverb II. transitive verb (-ed/-ing/-s) Etymology: Latin cruci-, crux cross + English -ate : to mark with a cross