Cross Bracing

In construction, cross bracing is a system utilized to reinforce building structures in which diagonal supports intersect. "Cross bracing can increase a building’s capability to withstand seismic forces from an earthquake." (Check source) The cross bracing is usually seen with two diagonal supports placed in a X shaped manner; these supports compression and tension forces. Depending on the forces, one brace may be in tension while the other is slack. Cross bracing can be applied to any rectangular frame structure, such as chairs and bookshelves. In steel construction, steel cables may be used due to their great resistance to tension (although not resistant at all to compression). The common uses for cross bracing includes bridge (side) supports, along with structural foundations. This method of construction maximizes the weight of the load a structure is able to support.

Source: Second Line:

Cross-bracing can also be used to increase the rigidity of a structure, for example, a building or piece of furniture.