topcross

noun

top·​cross ˈtäp-ˌkrȯs How to pronounce topcross (audio)
: a cross between a superior or purebred male and inferior female stock to improve the average quality of the progeny
also : the product of such a cross

Word History

First Known Use

1890, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of topcross was in 1890

Dictionary Entries Near topcross

Cite this Entry

“Topcross.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/topcross. Accessed 21 Nov. 2024.

More from Merriam-Webster on topcross

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!