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Glite Dictionary
to cross-file

to cross-file

9.5
To be a candidate for more than one party in the same election
  • verb
  • /ˈkrɔsˌfaɪl/
  • Jargon
: presentarse en varias listas
  • In some states, candidates can cross-file to appear on the ballot for multiple parties.

Examples

  • He decided to cross-file, seeking endorsements from both the Democratic and Republican parties.

  • The new candidate chose to cross-file, hoping to gain support from a wider range of voters.

  • Laws regarding the ability to cross-file vary significantly from one jurisdiction to another.

  • He decided to cross-file with both parties.

  • Many candidates cross-file to increase their chances.

  • In some states, candidates can cross-file to appear on the ballot for multiple parties.

  • He decided to cross-file, seeking endorsements from both the Democratic and Republican parties.

Surface Forms

cross-file infinitive
cross-filed past
cross-filed past participle
cross-filing present participle
cross-files third person singular

Morphology

cross-file = cross + file (transparent) = cross + file

Meaning is directly compositional: 'cross' (across/between) + 'file' (to register), so 'file across multiple parties' is derivable.

Etymology

Cross-file comes from cross ('across' or 'between') and file ('a list' or 'an official record'). So to cross-file is to put your name on more than one party's list, meaning you can appear as a candidate for multiple parties on the ballot.