cross-fertilize

[ kraws-fur-tl-ahyz, kros- ]
/ ˈkrɔsˈfɜr tlˌaɪz, ˈkrɒs- /

verb (used with object), cross-fer·ti·lized, cross-fer·ti·liz·ing.

to cause the cross-fertilization of.

verb (used without object), cross-fer·ti·lized, cross-fer·ti·liz·ing.

to undergo cross-fertilization.
Also especially British, cross-fer·ti·lise.

Origin of cross-fertilize

First recorded in 1875–80

OTHER WORDS FROM cross-fertilize

cross-fer·ti·liz·a·ble, adjective

Example sentences from the Web for cross-fertilize

British Dictionary definitions for cross-fertilize

cross-fertilize

verb

to subject or be subjected to cross-fertilization

Scientific definitions for cross-fertilize

cross-fertilization

The fertilization that occurs when the nucleus of a male sex cell from one individual joins with the nucleus of a female sex cell from another individual. In plants, cross-pollination is an example of cross-fertilization. Also called allogamy Compare self-fertilization.

Other words from cross-fertilization

cross-fertilize verb