1. shaped like a cross; having four parts arranged in the form of a cross
Usage: technical; anatomy

Examples

• The cruciate ligaments in the knee form an X-shape when viewed from the side.
• The surgeon examined the torn cruciate ligament during the arthroscopy.
• Cruciate flowers have four petals arranged in a cross pattern.
• The cruciate incision allowed better access to the surgical site.
• Athletes often injure their anterior cruciate ligament during sports.