noun-modifying (irregular)
Used prenominally in compounds such as 断郊競走 (cross-country race). Rare as a standalone noun.
Cross-country racing is a sport where you run through nature.
cross-country race
Compound of 断 (cut off, interrupt) and 郊 (outskirts, countryside), literally 'cutting across the countryside'. The exact derivation is uncertain, but the spelling is conventionally associated with cross-country.