bristling crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "bristling crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all the potential answers and detailed explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Whether it's a physical description or an emotional state, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "bristling crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
EDGY: Exhibiting a nervous or tense feeling, often implied by bristling with discomfort or unease.
5 Letters
SPIKY: Having sharp points or a sharp-pointed surface, literally bristling with spikes.
ANGRY: Feeling or showing strong annoyance, displeasure, or hostility, often causing one to 'bristle' with rage.
7 Letters
PRICKLY: Covered with prickles or sharp points; also, easily offended or irritable, like bristling hair.
9 Letters
IRRITATED: Feeling or showing slight anger; annoyed, a common emotional state when one might 'bristle'.
More About "bristling crossword clue"
The word "bristling" is a fascinating clue in crosswords because it can refer to both a physical attribute and an emotional state. Physically, something bristling is often covered with stiff, short hairs or points, much like a brush or an animal raising its fur. This can lead to answers describing texture or appearance, such as SPIKY or PRICKLY.
Figuratively, "bristling" describes a reaction where someone is visibly agitated, annoyed, or on edge. This could be due to anger, discomfort, or a defensive stance. When a clue uses "bristling" in this context, the answer might relate to feelings like ANGRY, IRRITATED, or EDGY.
Crossword setters love clues with dual meanings, and "bristling" is a prime example. Always consider the surrounding words and the specific puzzle's theme to determine whether the clue is seeking a literal description or an emotional response. Understanding these nuances is key to pinpointing the correct answer in your crossword puzzle and enhancing your solving skills.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: Many clues, like "bristling," have both literal and figurative interpretations. Always think about both possibilities before committing to an answer.
- Count Your Letters: The number of blank squares is your most reliable hint. Use it to eliminate words that don't fit the required length. Our page organizes answers by letter count for this very reason!
- Look for Context Clues: Pay close attention to other words in the clue. Do they suggest a physical object, an animal, or a human emotion? This can narrow down the meaning of "bristling" significantly.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Sometimes, the answer isn't a direct synonym but something closely related or even an antonym if the clue implies the opposite.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bristling' typically mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'bristling' can refer to something physically covered with stiff hairs or points (like a brush), or figuratively to an emotion, such as feeling angry, annoyed, or tense. It often implies a reaction where one's hackles are raised.
How can I tell if 'bristling' refers to a physical state or an emotion?
The surrounding clue words are key. If the clue mentions an animal, a texture, or an object, it's likely physical. If it refers to a person's reaction, a mood, or a feeling, it's probably an emotional state like anger, irritation, or edginess. Consider the word length too, as shorter answers might fit more general meanings.
Are there common synonyms for 'bristling' that appear in puzzles?
Yes, common physical synonyms include SPIKY, PRICKLY, or THORNY. For emotional meanings, answers like ANGRY, IRRITATED, FUMING, or ON EDGE are frequently seen. The context of the clue will guide you to the correct synonym.