crossword clue breakwater – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving the trickiest crossword clues. On this page, you'll find all possible solutions for "crossword clue breakwater" across various letter counts, complete with helpful explanations to boost your puzzle-solving skills!
Solutions for "crossword clue breakwater" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MOLE: A massive structure, often of stone, serving as a pier or breakwater.
DIKE: An embankment built to prevent inundation from the sea or a river, sometimes serving a similar protective function.
5 Letters
JETTY: A long, narrow structure projecting from the shore into the water, used as a landing place or to protect a harbor from waves.
6 Letters
GROYNE: A low wall or timber barrier built out into the sea from a beach to prevent erosion, acting as a small-scale breakwater.
More About "crossword clue breakwater"
The term "breakwater" refers to a structure built into the sea or a large body of water, primarily to protect a harbor, anchorage, or coastline from the force of waves and currents. These structures create a zone of calm water behind them, essential for safe navigation and docking of ships. They can be made from various materials, including rocks, concrete, or even old ships, and their design varies greatly depending on the specific environmental conditions and purpose.
In the world of crosswords, "breakwater" is a fantastic clue because it has several common synonyms that fit different letter counts, making it a versatile entry for setters. Clues like this often test a solver's vocabulary related to maritime engineering and coastal features. Recognizing these synonyms is key to mastering such puzzles.
Understanding the nuances between terms like 'mole,' 'jetty,' and 'groyne' can be beneficial. While all can function as breakwaters, their primary purposes or construction might differ slightly. A mole is often a robust, solid structure forming an outer barrier, a jetty can be lighter and used for mooring, and a groyne is typically smaller, built perpendicular to the beach to control sand movement and erosion.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Letters Carefully: Always verify the number of letters in your potential answer against the grid. This is the single most important check, especially for clues with multiple synonyms like "breakwater."
- Consider Synonyms and Related Concepts: Don't just think of direct synonyms. Sometimes a clue points to a broader category or a related object/action. For "breakwater," think of structures that protect or jut out into water.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you're stuck, fill in any letters from intersecting words you've already solved. These fixed letters will significantly narrow down the possibilities for the current clue.
- Context is Key: Pay attention to the clue's wording. Is it singular or plural? Does it imply an action or a noun? Sometimes, subtle hints in the clue can guide you to the specific answer needed.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary function of a breakwater?
The primary function of a breakwater is to protect a harbor, anchorage, or coast from the force of strong waves and currents, creating a calm area for ships or preventing erosion.
Why might a crossword clue like 'breakwater' have multiple answers?
Crossword clues often have multiple answers because there are many synonyms or related terms that fit the definition. The correct answer depends on the number of letters required by the puzzle grid and any intersecting letters from other clues.
Are 'mole' and 'jetty' always interchangeable with 'breakwater' in crosswords?
While 'mole' and 'jetty' often function as breakwaters and are common crossword answers for the clue, their specific uses can differ. A mole is typically a solid, massive structure, while a jetty might be lighter or primarily for docking. In crosswords, context and letter count are key.