crossword clue dirigible – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "dirigible", you've come to the right place. We provide quick help with answers for all word lengths, along with explanations to help you understand the solution and improve your crossword skills.
Solutions for "crossword clue dirigible" by Letter Count
5 Letters
BLIMP: A small, non-rigid airship, often used for advertising or surveillance.
7 Letters
AIRSHIP: A powered, steerable aircraft that is lighter than air.
8 Letters
ZEPPELIN: A large German rigid airship or dirigible of the early 20th century, named after its designer.
More About "crossword clue dirigible"
A dirigible, also known as a dirigible airship, is a type of aerostat (lighter-than-air aircraft) that can be steered and propelled through the air. Unlike a hot air balloon, which drifts with the wind, a dirigible has engines and control surfaces, allowing for controlled flight. They typically consist of a large, gas-filled envelope (often with helium or hydrogen), a gondola for crew and passengers, and propellers.
Dirigibles saw their golden age in the early 20th century, primarily for long-distance passenger travel, military reconnaissance, and bombing during World War I. Famous examples include the German Zeppelins, which were rigid airships known for their massive size and transatlantic capabilities. After several high-profile accidents, most notably the Hindenburg disaster in 1937, their use for passenger transport declined sharply.
Today, while not as prevalent, dirigibles or modern airships still have niche applications. They are sometimes used for aerial advertising, providing a unique and highly visible platform. Other uses include surveillance, scientific research, and even luxury tourism, offering a slow, panoramic view. Advances in materials and propulsion technology are also leading to renewed interest in their potential for cargo transport and other specialized roles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue Type: For a clue like "dirigible", consider if the puzzle is looking for a direct synonym, a specific type (e.g., a brand name like Zeppelin), or a related concept (e.g., blimp, airship).
- Use Letter Count Strategically: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting words, use the exact letter count to narrow down the possible answers. For "dirigible", common answers range from 5 to 8 letters.
- Think Broadly and Specifically: Start with the most general terms like "AIRSHIP," then move to more specific terms like "BLIMP" (a non-rigid dirigible) or "ZEPPELIN" (a rigid one), based on the letter count and surrounding letters.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: Always check how your potential answer fits with other clues. If a letter doesn't match, you'll know to re-evaluate your choice.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a dirigible and an airship?
A dirigible is a steerable airship, meaning it has a propulsion system and controls to direct its flight. All dirigibles are airships, but not all airships (e.g., unsteerable free balloons) are dirigibles. The term 'airship' is a broader category.
Why are dirigibles often clued as "Blimp" or "Zeppelin" in crosswords?
Blimp and Zeppelin are two of the most well-known types of dirigibles. 'Blimp' refers to a non-rigid dirigible, while 'Zeppelin' specifically refers to a large, rigid airship designed by Ferdinand von Zeppelin. They are often used as common synonyms or examples in clues.
Are dirigibles still used today?
Yes, dirigibles are still in use, though not as widespread as in their early 20th-century heyday. Modern uses include aerial advertising, surveillance, scientific research, and sometimes tourism, thanks to their unique ability to hover and provide stable platforms.