ˈ ̷ ̷| ̷ ̷ adjective
1. : having the grain or fibers running diagonally, transversely, or irregularly
2.
a. : difficult to deal with, handle, or master
a cross-grained problem
the story … cross-grained in its structure — D.L.Morgan
b. : morosely irascible : grumpy and intractable : perversely contrary
a spiteful cross-grained old woman
Synonyms: see contrary