cross-examination
noun
- question a witness (as if) after the opposition
Wiktionary
noun
Etymology: Etymology tree English cross- English examination English cross-examination From cross- + examination.
- The interrogation or questioning of a witness by the party against whom they have been called and examined, in an attempt to prove or reveal something false or untold during direct examination.
“It is impossible to bring them here for cross-examination; one simply has to conduct one's defence and argue one's case against an invisible opponent, […]”
“When Horsley finished his testimony, Richardson began the cross-examination, which was to last for twenty-six hours over the course of an entire week.”
- Any intense period of questioning, especially if hostile.