1. either of a pair of horizontal timbers or metal bars that extend from the mast of a ship to support the topmast and spread the rigging
Usage: nautical; usually used in plural form 'crosstrees'

Examples

• The sailors climbed up to the crosstrees to adjust the rigging.
• The crosstrees on the tall ship were made of sturdy oak.
• From the crosstrees, the lookout could see far across the ocean.
• The mast was reinforced by strong crosstrees that prevented it from bending.
• Modern sailing vessels still use crosstrees to support their upper masts.