beasts of burden crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "beasts of burden crossword clue", presented by letter count for easy navigation.
Solutions for "beasts of burden crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
OXEN: Castrated male bovines, historically and currently used for plowing fields and pulling carts due to their strength and docility. They are a classic example of beasts of burden.
5 Letters
MULES: A hybrid offspring of a male donkey and a female horse, mules are known for their exceptional strength, endurance, and sure-footedness, making them ideal for carrying heavy loads over difficult terrain.
6 Letters
CAMELS: Large desert mammals renowned for their ability to carry heavy loads and travel long distances without water, earning them the nickname 'ships of the desert'. They are vital for transport in arid regions.
LLAMAS: South American camelids primarily used as pack animals in the Andes Mountains. They are known for their ability to carry moderate loads over high, rugged terrain.
HORSES: Historically, horses were extensively used as beasts of burden for pulling wagons, plows, and carrying riders or goods before the advent of mechanization. They remain important in some contexts today.
7 Letters
DONKEYS: Often smaller than horses, donkeys possess great endurance and are widely used around the world for carrying goods, people, and working in agriculture, especially in rural and mountainous areas.
More About "beasts of burden crossword clue"
The term "beasts of burden" refers to animals that are domesticated and used by humans to carry heavy loads, pull vehicles, or perform other physical tasks. These animals have played a crucial role in human history, enabling trade, agriculture, and exploration long before the advent of modern machinery.
When you encounter "beasts of burden crossword clue" in a puzzle, the answer often points to an animal specifically bred or known for its strength, endurance, and ability to work alongside humans. From the rugged mules navigating mountain paths to the resilient camels crossing vast deserts, these animals are truly unsung heroes of development.
Crossword setters love these types of clues because they represent a universal concept with a variety of potential answers, varying in length and sometimes regional specificity. Understanding the common candidates and their characteristics can significantly speed up your solving process.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: For clues like "beasts of burden," knowing the number of letters required is often the quickest way to narrow down options. Do you need a 4-letter word like OXEN or a 7-letter word like DONKEYS?
- Think Globally: While MULES and OXEN are common in many regions, puzzles might include animals specific to certain parts of the world, like CAMELS for deserts or LLAMAS for the Andes, expanding your pool of potential answers.
- Check Intersecting Clues: Always use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These crucial letters will either confirm your guess or point you toward a different animal that fits the pattern.
- Recall Historical Context: Many beasts of burden have long histories of use. Remembering their traditional roles can sometimes provide a subtle hint, e.g., animals used for plowing versus those for long-distance transport.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What defines a 'beast of burden' in a crossword puzzle?
In crosswords, a 'beast of burden' typically refers to any animal used by humans primarily for carrying heavy loads, pulling vehicles, or performing other arduous physical tasks. Common answers often include MULES, OXEN, DONKEYS, or CAMELS, but context can sometimes expand to HORSES or LLAMAS depending on the clue.
Why are animals like MULES and OXEN common answers for 'beasts of burden'?
MULES are favored for their strength, endurance, and sure-footedness, making them excellent for carrying goods over difficult terrain. OXEN are strong, patient, and easily trained, traditionally used for plowing and heavy pulling. Both have long histories of being indispensable working animals, making them classic crossword answers.
How can I distinguish between similar answers like 'DONKEYS' and 'MULES' for this clue?
The key is often the letter count. DONKEYS (7 letters) and MULES (5 letters) are distinct in length. Additionally, context within the puzzle (e.g., specific regions, historical periods, or subtle wordplay) might hint at one over the other. Always check intersecting letters if you're unsure.