crossword clue badger – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "badger", helping you complete your puzzle with ease. We cover all possible word lengths and meanings.
Solutions for "crossword clue badger" by Letter Count
3 Letters
NAG: To persistently bother or complain to someone.
5 Letters
ANNOY: To irritate or cause slight anger; a common synonym for badgering.
BROCK: An informal or dialectal name for the badger animal, especially in British English.
6 Letters
PESTER: To trouble or annoy (someone) with frequent or persistent requests or interruptions.
HARASS: To subject to aggressive pressure or intimidation.
More About "crossword clue badger"
The clue "badger" is a classic example of a word with multiple meanings that can trip up even experienced crossword solvers. Its dual nature as both a verb (to annoy or pester) and a noun (the animal) makes it versatile for clue setters. When you encounter "badger" in a puzzle, your first instinct should be to consider synonyms for bothering or harassing someone. Common answers falling into this category include words like NAG, PESTER, ANNOY, and HARASS.
However, it's crucial to remember the animal meaning. While less common, the word "BROCK" (a dialectal term for a badger) is a specific and popular crossword answer for the animal. Pay attention to the length of the required answer and the context of other clues in the puzzle to determine which meaning is intended. For instance, if other clues refer to animals or nature, the animal meaning might be more likely.
Understanding these nuances will significantly improve your chances of solving clues like "badger" quickly and accurately. It highlights the importance of vocabulary breadth and contextual analysis in crossword solving.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always think about alternative definitions for a word, especially common ones like "badger." Many clues rely on homonyms or words with both noun and verb forms.
- Check Letter Count First: The number of letters provided is often your strongest hint. It immediately narrows down the possibilities and can help you distinguish between similar-length synonyms.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Examine surrounding clues. Are there other clues related to animals, actions, or specific themes? This can provide valuable insight into the intended meaning of ambiguous words.
- Don't Be Afraid to Leave and Return: If a clue like "badger" has you stumped, move on and fill in other answers. New letters revealed can often unlock previously difficult clues by providing starting or ending letters.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'badger' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'badger' most often refers to the verb meaning 'to persistently bother or annoy.' However, it can occasionally refer to the animal itself, a burrowing mammal known for its distinctive striped face.
Are there common word lengths for 'badger' answers?
Answers for 'badger' can vary, but common lengths include 3, 5, 6, and 7 letters, often corresponding to synonyms like NAG, ANNOY, PESTER, or HARASS. BROCK is a 5-letter answer for the animal.
How do I distinguish between the verb and animal meanings of 'badger' in a crossword?
Look at the other clues in the puzzle and the puzzle's overall theme. If other clues are verbs or the context implies an action, it's likely the verb meaning. If other clues are animals, nature-related, or a specific proper noun, it might be the animal. The letter count can also help narrow down possibilities, as 'BROCK' for the animal is 5 letters.