colonies crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all possible solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "colonies". Whether you're stuck on a tricky puzzle or just curious about the different meanings, we've got you covered with answers across various lengths.
Solutions for "colonies crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ANTS: Social insects living in structured groups.
BEES: Insects known for forming large, organized groups in hives.
HIVE: A natural or artificial structure where bees live as a colony.
6 Letters
SWARMS: Large, densely packed groups of insects, often flying or moving together.
8 Letters
OUTPOSTS: Remote settlements or stations, often established by a larger group or nation.
11 Letters
SETTLEMENTS: New places established by groups of people who have moved there.
More About "colonies crossword clue"
The term "colonies" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often leading to a range of potential answers. It can refer to biological groupings, such as a community of insects like ants or bees living together, or a collection of microorganisms. In this context, answers like ANTS, BEES, or HIVE are common.
Beyond the natural world, "colonies" frequently appears in clues related to human history and geography. This includes new settlements established by people in a distant land (SETTLEMENTS), or remote military or trading stations (OUTPOSTS). The nuance of the clue, such as "new settlements abroad" versus "insect groups," will guide you to the correct answer.
Understanding the context provided by the rest of the crossword clue and the number of letters required is paramount to successfully solving puzzles involving "colonies." Always consider both the common biological and historical/geographical interpretations.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the full clue: Look for additional words in the clue that provide hints about the type of colony (e.g., "insect colony," "early American colony").
- Check letter count: The number of blank spaces or dashes in the grid is your most direct guide. This immediately narrows down possibilities.
- Consider synonyms and related concepts: Think about words like "groups," "settlements," "outposts," "hives," or "swarms" that are closely associated with the idea of colonies.
- Utilize intersecting letters: Once you have a few letters from crossing words, fill them into your potential answers for "colonies." This can quickly confirm or rule out possibilities.
- Don't be afraid to guess and check: If you have a strong candidate, tentatively write it in and see if it fits with other crossing words.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What common themes are related to 'colonies' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'colonies' often refers to groups of insects like ants or bees, but can also refer to human settlements, historical territories, or biological groupings. The specific context within the clue is crucial.
How can I find the correct length for a 'colonies' crossword clue?
The correct length for 'colonies' depends entirely on the specific answer the puzzle setter intends and the available spaces in the grid. Always check the number of dashes or boxes provided in the puzzle to determine the required letter count.
Are 'colonies' always about groups of living things?
While 'colonies' most commonly refers to groups of living organisms (like bacterial colonies, insect colonies) or human settlements, it can also refer to a group of people with a shared interest living in a specific area (e.g., 'artist colony'), or even historical territorial claims.