barrier crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the clue "barrier crossword", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get your puzzle solved quickly.
Solutions for "barrier crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
DAM: A barrier constructed to hold back water and raise its level, forming a reservoir.
4 Letters
WALL: A solid, upright structure that encloses, divides, or protects.
GATE: A movable barrier in a fence or wall, allowing passage.
DIKE: A long wall or embankment built to prevent flooding from the sea or a river.
5 Letters
FENCE: A barrier, usually made of posts and wire or wood, used to enclose an area.
HEDGE: A fence or boundary formed by closely growing bushes or shrubs.
6 Letters
HURDLE: A portable barrier over which athletes jump in a race; also, a difficulty or obstacle.
7 Letters
BARRAGE: An artificial barrier or dam across a river or estuary to increase water depth or divert it.
8 Letters
OBSTACLE: A thing that blocks one's way or prevents or hinders progress.
9 Letters
BARRICADE: An improvised barrier erected to prevent the passage of persons or vehicles.
10 Letters
IMPEDIMENT: A hindrance or obstruction in doing something.
More About "barrier crossword"
The term "barrier" in crosswords is a classic example of a clue that can have multiple layers of meaning, ranging from the literal to the figurative. Physically, a barrier is something that prevents access or movement, like a wall, fence, or a dam. These are often straightforward to identify if the clue hints at a physical structure or restraint.
However, "barrier" can also refer to an abstract obstacle or hindrance, such as a barrier to communication, a language barrier, or a psychological barrier. In these cases, answers like OBSTACLE, HURDLE, or IMPEDIMENT become relevant. Seasoned crossword solvers learn to consider both interpretations and use the surrounding letters or a cryptic twist in the clue to deduce the correct answer.
Crossword setters love to play on these dual meanings. A clue like "Sound barrier?" could hint at something entirely different from a physical wall. Always consider synonyms and antonyms, and think about the context the setter might be implying. Mastering this nuance is key to cracking more complex "barrier" clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms carefully: For clues like "barrier", think of every possible synonym, both literal and metaphorical. Write them down and see if any fit the letter count.
- Check intersecting words: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is when it fits perfectly with words crossing it. Don't force a word if it doesn't align with solved letters.
- Look for indicators: Pay attention to words in the clue that might indicate a type of barrier (e.g., "water barrier" pointing to DAM, or "racing barrier" for HURDLE).
- Think outside the box: Sometimes, the most obvious answer isn't the correct one. Crossword setters often use misdirection. If a physical barrier doesn't fit, consider an abstract one.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common types of "barrier" clues in crosswords?
Common 'barrier' clues can refer to physical structures like walls, fences, or dams, but also metaphorical obstacles such as hurdles or impediments. The context of the clue and surrounding letters are key to determining the intended meaning.
How do I distinguish between literal and figurative barriers in a crossword clue?
Look for adjectives or phrases that hint at the nature of the barrier. Words like 'physical', 'dividing', or 'enclosing' often point to literal barriers. Phrases implying difficulty, challenge, or progress being halted suggest a figurative or abstract barrier.
Are "barrier" answers always physical structures?
No, 'barrier' answers are not always physical. They can often refer to abstract obstacles, difficulties, or hindrances. For example, a 'barrier to progress' might lead to an answer like 'OBSTACLE' or 'IMPEDIMENT', which are not physical structures.