crossword clue ague – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "ague", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their length, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "crossword clue ague" by Letter Count
5 Letters
FEVER: An elevated body temperature, often a primary symptom of ague.
6 Letters
CHILLS: Sensations of cold, often accompanied by shivering, which are characteristic of ague.
7 Letters
MALARIA: A serious disease transmitted by mosquitoes, historically and often medically synonymous with ague due to its cyclical fever and chills.
SHIVERS: Involuntary tremors of the body, typically in response to cold or fear, a classic symptom experienced during an ague attack.
More About "crossword clue ague"
"Ague" is a term that historically referred to an acute malarial fever, characterized by paroxysms of chills, fever, and sweating. While its use has declined in modern medical contexts, it remains a common and intriguing word in crossword puzzles. The clue often tests a solver's knowledge of older medical terminology or their ability to link symptoms like chills and fever to a concise, slightly archaic term.
In crosswords, "ague" can sometimes be a straightforward definition clue, directly leading to answers like FEVER or CHILLS. However, it can also be used to hint at its more specific historical counterpart, MALARIA, especially if the puzzle involves themes related to tropical diseases or historical ailments. Understanding the different facets of the word "ague" is key to unlocking various solutions.
Its presence in crosswords highlights the rich vocabulary that these puzzles draw upon, spanning history, science, and everyday language. Recognizing "ague" as more than just a synonym for illness, but specifically an illness with characteristic recurring symptoms, can greatly aid in solving more complex clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Symptoms: For clues like "ague," think beyond direct synonyms. Consider the symptoms (chills, fever) or the specific disease it most often referred to (malaria).
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters required. This is the fastest way to narrow down potential answers from multiple options like FEVER (5 letters) versus MALARIA (7 letters).
- Look for Cross-References: If you're stuck on "ague," try solving intersecting clues first. The letters filled in from other words can provide crucial hints for the 'ague' answer.
- Think Historically/Literary: Some clues, like "ague," have a strong historical or literary context. If a puzzle seems to lean towards older terms, this might be a primary answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ague' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'ague' typically refers to a feverish illness involving chills and shivering, often alluding to malaria due to its historical association with intermittent fevers.
Are there common alternative words for 'ague' in crosswords?
Yes, common alternatives or symptoms related to ague that appear in crosswords include FEVER, CHILLS, MALARIA, and SHIVERS, depending on the required letter count.
How can I distinguish between 'ague' and similar clues?
Pay attention to the letter count and any other crossing letters. If the clue has a specific descriptor like 'tropical ague,' it might point more directly to 'MALARIA.' Otherwise, consider 'FEVER' or 'CHILLS' as primary symptoms.