1. two thin lines that cross each other at right angles in the center of a telescopic sight or similar optical instrument, used for aiming
2. a position of being targeted or under intense scrutiny
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The sniper adjusted his scope until the target was centered in the crosshairs.
• She lined up the deer in her crosshairs before taking the shot.
• The microscope’s crosshairs helped her locate the exact position of the specimen.
• After the scandal broke, the politician found himself in the crosshairs of the media.
• The company’s poor performance put the CEO directly in the crosshairs of angry shareholders.
• Environmental groups have the new factory in their crosshairs.
• The survey equipment uses crosshairs to ensure precise measurements.