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Webster 1913 Edition

cross-purpose

cross′-purˊpose

(-p?rˊp?s)
,
Noun.
1.
A counter or opposing purpose; a contrary aim; hence, that which is inconsistent or contradictory.
Shaftesbury.
2.
pl.
A conversational game, in which questions and answers are made so as to involve ludicrous combinations of ideas.
Pepys.
To be at cross-purposes
,
to misunderstand or to act counter to one another without intending it; – said of persons.

Webster 1828 Edition

Cross-purpose

CROSS-PURPOSE

,
Noun.
A contrary purpose; contradictory system; also, a conversation in which one person does or pretends to misunderstand anothers meaning. An enigma; a riddle.

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