crossword clue demure – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "demure," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "crossword clue demure" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SHY: Often used to describe someone quiet and reserved in manner, aligning perfectly with 'demure'.
COY: Suggests an affecting shyness, often in a playful or flirtatious way, a nuanced take on 'demure'.
5 Letters
TIMID: Showing a lack of courage or confidence; easily frightened, often associated with demureness.
6 Letters
MODEST: Implies being unassuming in one's abilities or achievements, a core characteristic of being demure.
7 Letters
BASHFUL: Reluctant to draw attention to oneself; shy, a strong synonym for demure.
8 Letters
RESERVED: Describes someone slow to reveal emotion or opinions, a common synonym for demure behavior.
More About "crossword clue demure"
"Demure" as a crossword clue often points towards words describing modesty, shyness, or a quiet, unassuming demeanor. It's a classic crossword staple, testing your vocabulary for synonyms related to reserved behavior. While the most common answers are often short and direct like SHY or COY, depending on the puzzle's difficulty and theme, longer, more nuanced words like RESERVED or DIFFIDENT might be expected.
Understanding the subtle differences between these synonyms can be key. For example, "coy" implies a deliberate or even playful shyness, whereas "modest" often refers to a lack of vanity. Crossword setters love these subtle distinctions, so always consider the exact nuance implied by the clue and how it might fit with intersecting words.
The term 'demure' itself comes from Old French and implies 'sober, quiet, or serious'. This etymology reinforces its core meaning of quiet propriety, which is consistently reflected in its crossword answers across various lengths and styles of puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check for Letter Count: Always start by counting the available spaces in your grid. This immediately narrows down the possible answers for "demure" to those of a specific length.
- Consider Nuances: 'Demure' has shades of meaning (shy, modest, reserved, coy). If one common answer doesn't fit, think about other synonyms that might match a slightly different connotation of the word.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by crossing words are your best friends. Even one or two letters can eliminate many possibilities and confirm the correct 'demure' synonym.
- Think Common Crossword Patterns: Some words like SHY or MODEST appear very frequently for 'demure' or similar clues. If you're stuck, try the most common solutions first.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'demure' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'demure' typically refers to someone quiet, modest, reserved, or shy. It often suggests a proper and decorous behavior, avoiding ostentation. Common answers include SHY, COY, MODEST, and RESERVED.
Are there common alternative spellings or phrases for 'demure' in crosswords?
While 'demure' itself doesn't have alternative spellings, crossword setters might use phrases like 'quietly modest' or 'unassuming' as indirect clues. Always consider synonyms that fit the letter count.
How can I distinguish between similar 'demure' answers like 'shy' and 'coy'?
'Shy' is a general term for timid or nervous behavior. 'Coy' specifically implies an affected or playful shyness, often to evade a direct answer or in a flirtatious manner. The surrounding letters or other clues in the puzzle might hint at which nuance is intended.