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crosshair

Definition

  • noun: a very thin wire or thread that is seen when you look into a microscope, telescope, etc., and that is used for precisely viewing or aiming at something
  • noun: a fine wire or thread in the focus of the eyepiece of an optical instrument used as a reference line in the field or for marking the instrumental axis
  • used figuratively to describe someone or something being targeted as if through an aiming device having crosshairs

Examples

  • The senator's voting record was 'in the crosshairs' of his political rivals. [=was being targeted by his political rivals]

Movie quotes

  • (..) and we have nothing. The DVD players and digital cameras are worth $. million... ...which brings the grand total to $ million plus. We're in the political crosshairs now, Brian. That's why you're undercover. You want that detective badge fast, kid. And you want to know something? The FBI can help, (..)
    2001 The Fast and the Furious