What does 'corpulent' mean in a crossword context?

In crosswords, 'corpulent' typically refers to being excessively fat or heavily built. Answers will often be synonyms like FAT, OBESE, PLUMP, STOUT, PORTLY, or ROTUND, depending on the required letter count.

How can I find the right length answer for 'corpulent'?

The surrounding letters or intersecting words in your crossword puzzle are key. Once you have a few letters, you can narrow down the potential answers for 'corpulent' by matching them with the letter count provided by the puzzle grid.

Are there common tricky clues related to 'corpulent'?

Sometimes clues might use more obscure synonyms or hints like 'overweight' or 'big-boned' to lead you to 'corpulent' or its direct synonyms. Always consider all possible meanings and nuances of the clue to find the best fit.

crossword clue corpulent – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "corpulent," organized by letter count for your convenience. Whether you need a quick hint or a full explanation, we've got you covered to help you complete your puzzle.

Solutions for "crossword clue corpulent" by Letter Count

3 Letters

FAT: A very common and direct synonym for 'corpulent', referring to an excess of body fat. Often used in puzzles due to its short length and direct meaning.

5 Letters

PLUMP: Suggests a pleasantly full and rounded figure, often a softer synonym for 'corpulent' used in crosswords when a less harsh term is needed.

OBESE: A medical term indicating excessive body fat, often a more formal or clinical answer for 'corpulent' in crosswords.

STOUT: Refers to someone heavily built or strongly constructed, often implying corpulence in a sturdy way. A frequent crossword solution for similar clues.

6 Letters

PORTLY: Describes someone with a somewhat heavy, dignified, and often round body. It's a slightly more polite way to say corpulent and is common in crosswords.

ROTUND: Means round or plump, especially in the body. It evokes a spherical or rounded shape and is a classic crossword answer for corpulent.

CHUBBY: Commonly refers to someone, especially a child, who is plump and rounded. It's a softer, often endearing, synonym for corpulent.

More About "corpulent"

"Corpulent" is an adjective used to describe a person who is excessively fat or heavily built. Originating from the Latin 'corpulentus', derived from 'corpus' (body), it literally means "having a lot of body." While it directly denotes a large physique, its use in language can vary in tone, ranging from neutral description to a more formal or even slightly critical connotation depending on context. In crosswords, it's a popular clue because it has numerous well-known synonyms of varying lengths.

Understanding the nuances of its synonyms can greatly aid in solving puzzles. For instance, 'fat' is a very general term, 'obese' is clinical, 'plump' and 'chubby' often carry a more gentle or even affectionate implication, whereas 'stout' and 'portly' might suggest a sturdy or dignified heaviness. Knowing these subtle differences helps you choose the correct word when the clue or surrounding letters provide additional hints.

Beyond its literal meaning, "corpulent" can sometimes appear in crosswords with a twist, perhaps hinting at something that is voluminous or bulky, though this is less common than its direct application to body size. Always consider the precise meaning of the clue and how it fits the overall puzzle's theme or wordplay.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For words like "corpulent," think about the subtle differences between its synonyms. Is the clue hinting at a medical term (OBESE), a polite descriptor (PORTLY), or a simple, direct answer (FAT)?
Check Letter Count First: Always confirm the number of letters required for the answer. This is the most effective way to eliminate many possibilities and quickly narrow down your options for "corpulent."
Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These crucial hints often provide the starting or ending letters, or key letters in the middle, that confirm the correct "corpulent" synonym.
Consider Common Crossword Patterns: Some words, like 'FAT' or 'OBESE', are very common short answers for this type of clue. Familiarity with frequent crossword vocabulary can speed up your solve time.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the most common answer for 'corpulent' in crosswords?

While answers vary by letter count, 'FAT' (3 letters) and 'OBESE' (5 letters) are very frequently seen due to their direct meaning and common usage. 'PLUMP' and 'PORTLY' are also quite common for longer answers.

Does 'corpulent' ever have a figurative meaning in crosswords?

Rarely, but it can. While primarily referring to body size, very tricky clues might use 'corpulent' to describe something excessively large, swollen, or voluminous in a non-human context. However, almost always, it's about physical size.

How do I differentiate between 'stout' and 'portly' for 'corpulent'?

'Stout' implies a strong, sturdy build, often heavy, while 'portly' usually suggests a dignified, somewhat round, and rather heavy figure, often with a slight implication of age or good living. The specific crossword's tone or other intersecting letters will usually guide you.