buttress crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find all the possible answers for the crossword clue "buttress crossword clue", organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution.
Solutions for "buttress crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PROP: A structural support often used to buttress or hold something up temporarily.
5 Letters
BRACE: A device that strengthens or supports, commonly used to buttress a structure.
7 Letters
SUPPORT: To hold up or reinforce, which is the primary action of a buttress.
9 Letters
REINFORCE: To strengthen or support, often with additional material, similar to how a buttress adds strength.
More About "buttress crossword clue"
The term "buttress" in crosswords usually points to synonyms that imply support, strengthening, or providing stability. Historically, buttresses are architectural elements built against a wall to provide reinforcement, especially common in large stone buildings like cathedrals. This direct structural purpose translates well into various forms of support, both literal and figurative, that crossword setters love to explore.
When you encounter 'buttress' in a puzzle, consider the word's dual nature as both a noun (the support itself) and a verb (to provide support). This flexibility allows for a range of answers, from simple, direct synonyms like 'prop' or 'stay' to more elaborate verbs like 'bolster' or 'underpin'. The length of the answer box is your most crucial hint here, guiding you to the precise word needed.
Often, the surrounding clues or the theme of the puzzle might offer additional context. For instance, if the puzzle has an architectural theme, you might lean towards answers that have a more direct building-related connotation. Otherwise, common usage and synonyms are your best bet.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Word Type: For 'buttress', remember it can be a noun (the support) or a verb (to support). Identify if the clue implies an action or an object.
- Letter Count is King: Always check the number of boxes provided for the answer. This is the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities and focus on words of the correct length.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: If a direct synonym isn't apparent, sometimes thinking of antonyms can spark ideas for the opposite, leading you back to the correct word. For 'buttress', think what it prevents (e.g., collapse), then consider words that prevent collapse.
- Utilize Cross-Reference Clues: Pay close attention to intersecting words. If you have a few letters from other solved clues, they can significantly narrow down the options for "buttress".
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'buttress' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'buttress' typically refers to words meaning to support, strengthen, or provide structural reinforcement, like 'prop', 'brace', or 'support'. It can be a noun (the support itself) or a verb (to support).
How can I find common synonyms for 'buttress'?
Look for words like 'support', 'prop', 'brace', 'reinforce', 'bolster', or 'underpin'. Context clues in the puzzle, such as the number of letters or surrounding words, can help narrow down the exact synonym needed.
Are there any specific types of buttresses that appear in crosswords?
While the clue usually refers to the general action of supporting, sometimes architectural terms like 'flying buttress' might inspire answers related to specific structures. However, 'buttress' alone most often implies the verb 'to support' or the general noun 'a support'.