Category:Cross-purpose

Cross"-pur`pose (-pr`ps), n.

1. A counter or opposing purpose; hence, that which is inconsistent or contradictory. Shaftesbury.

2. pl.

Defn: 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.