cross fire

WordReference Random House Learner's Dictionary of American English © 2026

ˈcross ˌfire or ˈcrossˌfire,n. 

1. Military gunfire coming from two or more positions so that the lines of fire cross one another: [countable; usually singular]
   If the troops attack, they'll be in a vicious crossfire.
   [uncountable] They tried to avoid the crossfire and focused their attack carefully.
2. a situation involving conflicting claims, forces, arguments, etc.:
   [uncountable] She was caught in the crossfire, attacked from one side for being too careful and from the other for not forging ahead.

WordReference Random House Unabridged Dictionary of American English © 2026

cross′ fire′, 

1. Military lines of gunfire from two or more positions or combatants crossing one another, or a single one of such lines.
2. a brisk exchange of words or opinions.
3. a situation involving conflicting claims, forces, etc.
Also, cross′fire′. 
• 1855–60