cowered crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "cowered crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We've compiled all the possible answers for you, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "cowered crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
SHRANK: To pull back or contract, often in fear or in response to something unpleasant. This implies a physical and emotional withdrawal.
7 Letters
CRINGED: To shrink back or cower, as in fear, pain, or distaste. Often used to describe a reaction to something embarrassing or horrific.
8 Letters
RECOILED: To suddenly spring or flinch back in fear, horror, or disgust. Suggests a more abrupt and involuntary movement than simply cowering.
8 Letters
CROUCHED: To bend one's body low, often in a position of fear, readiness, or concealment. This answer focuses more on the physical posture associated with cowering.
More About "cowered crossword clue"
"Cowered" is a past tense verb that describes the act of bending low and shrinking away from something, typically out of fear, shame, or submissiveness. In crosswords, clues like "cowered" often require a synonym that conveys both a physical reaction and an emotional state. The common thread among potential answers is a sense of retreat or withdrawal in response to a perceived threat or discomfort.
When encountering this clue, consider not just direct synonyms but also words that describe the physical posture or psychological state associated with cowering. The nuance can sometimes lie in the intensity of the fear or the specific action taken. For instance, 'shrank' implies a general pulling back, while 'crouched' specifies a particular body position.
Puzzle setters often use such verbs to test your vocabulary range and your ability to differentiate between subtly different meanings. Understanding the root meaning of "cower" – to recoil in fear or abjection – is key to unlocking the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Emotional Context: Many clues, like "cowered," imply an emotional state (fear, submission). Think of verbs that describe reactions to these feelings.
- Look for Physical Actions: "Cowered" suggests a physical movement. Brainstorm words related to shrinking, bending, or retreating.
- Match the Tense: Since "cowered" is past tense, your answer should also be a past tense verb (e.g., -ED ending). This is a crucial hint in many puzzles.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: If you have a few letters from crossing words, they can significantly narrow down the possibilities for the "cowered" answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "cowered" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'cowered' refers to the act of crouching down or shrinking away in fear, submission, or shame. Clues often seek synonyms that convey this sense of retreat due to intimidation or fright. Common answers revolve around physical actions or emotional states of withdrawal.
How can I distinguish between similar clues like "cowered" and "flinched"?
While both imply a reaction to fear, 'cowered' suggests a sustained posture of shrinking or submission, often voluntary. 'Flinched' usually describes a quick, involuntary jerk or movement due to sudden pain or fear. Look at the number of letters and any other intersecting words to narrow down the specific nuance required by the puzzle setter.
Are there common word patterns for "cowered" answers?
Answers for 'cowered' typically end in -ED as it's a past tense verb, aligning with the clue. Common patterns include words describing physical actions like 'CROUCHED', 'SHRANK', 'CRINGED', or 'RECOILED'. Always consider the specific tense and the length of the word needed for the puzzle.