cross-fertilize

verb (used with object), cross-fer·ti·lized, cross-fer·ti·liz·ing.

1. to cause the cross-fertilization of.

verb (used without object), cross-fer·ti·lized, cross-fer·ti·liz·ing.

2. to undergo cross-fertilization.

verb

1. to subject or be subjected to cross-fertilization

1. The fertilization that occurs when the nucleus of a male sex cell from one individual joins with the nucleus of a female sex cell from another individual. In plants, cross-pollination is an example of cross-fertilization. Also called allogamy Compare self-fertilization.