county of ireland crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "county of ireland" clue in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your grid.
Solutions for "county of ireland crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CORK: A major city and county in the southwest of Ireland, known for its vibrant culture and culinary scene. It's the largest county by area in the Republic of Ireland.
5 Letters
KERRY: A scenic county in the southwest of Ireland, famous for its dramatic landscapes, the Ring of Kerry, and high mountains like Carrauntoohil.
6 Letters
DUBLIN: The capital city and a county on the east coast of Ireland, a hub for culture, history, and the national government. Many crosswords use 'DUBLIN' as a go-to answer for Irish geography.
7 Letters
DONEGAL: A large, rugged county in the northwest of Ireland, known for its wild Atlantic coastline, remote beaches, and Gaeltacht areas where Irish is spoken.
8 Letters
LIMERICK: A county in the Mid-West of Ireland, noted for its rich history, its position on the River Shannon, and its iconic King John's Castle.
9 Letters
TIPPERARY: A large inland county in the south of Ireland, famous for its rich agricultural land, its hurling tradition, and historical sites like the Rock of Cashel.
More About "county of ireland crossword clue"
The clue "county of Ireland" is a common staple in crossword puzzles due to the distinct and often short names of many Irish counties. Ireland, with its rich history and unique geography, provides a diverse set of answers for crossword setters. From the bustling capital of Dublin to the rugged beauty of Donegal or the scenic Ring of Kerry, each county offers a different linguistic and cultural flavor that can be leveraged in a puzzle.
When encountering this clue, consider the number of letters required first. This will immediately narrow down the possibilities significantly. Beyond that, familiarity with Irish geography, or even just popular culture references related to Ireland, can often lead you to the correct answer. Many solvers find that specific counties like Cork, Mayo, or Clare appear frequently because their names fit various letter patterns.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by checking the number of boxes the answer requires. This is the single most effective way to eliminate most incorrect possibilities for a clue like "county of Ireland."
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are critical clues that will confirm or deny your potential county guesses.
- Think Popularity: Crossword setters often use the more well-known counties (e.g., Dublin, Cork, Kerry) before resorting to lesser-known ones, especially for easier puzzles.
- Consider Cultural Context: Sometimes, the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme might hint at a specific region or type of county (e.g., a coastal county vs. an inland one).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many counties are there in the Republic of Ireland?
There are 26 traditional counties in the Republic of Ireland. Historically, the island of Ireland has 32 counties, with six of these forming Northern Ireland.
Are Irish county names common crossword answers?
Yes, Irish county names are very common in crosswords, often appearing in clues related to geography, specific regions, or even as part of wordplay. Their distinct names and varying lengths make them versatile for setters.
What makes "county of Ireland" a popular crossword clue?
It's a broad geographical category, allowing setters to use many different answers depending on the letter count and intersecting words. It's also a well-known country globally, making its constituent counties recognizable to a wide audience.