v. t. [ imp. & p. p. Decussated; p. pr. & vb. n. Decussating. ] [ L. decussatus, p. p. of decussare to cross like an X, fr. decussis (orig. equiv. to decem asses) the number ten, which the Romans represented by X. ] To cross at an acute angle; to cut or divide in the form of X; to intersect; -- said of lines in geometrical figures, rays of light, nerves, etc.

{ } a. 1. Crossed; intersected. [ 1913 Webster ]

2. (Bot.) Growing in pairs, each of which is at right angles to the next pair above or below; as, decussated leaves or branches. [ 1913 Webster ]

3. (Rhet.) Consisting of two rising and two falling clauses, placed in alternate opposition to each other; as, a decussated period. [ 1913 Webster ]

adv. In a decussate manner. [ 1913 Webster ]

n. [ L. decussatio. ] Act of crossing at an acute angle, or state of being thus crossed; an intersection in the form of an X; as, the decussation of lines, nerves, etc. [ 1913 Webster ]

a. Intersecting at acute angles. Sir T. Browne. [ 1913 Webster ]

adv. Crosswise; in the form of an X. “Anointed decussatively.” Sir T. Browne. [ 1913 Webster ]