crossword clue duck – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below you'll find all possible answers for "crossword clue duck," carefully organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations.
Solutions for "crossword clue duck" by Letter Count
3 Letters
BOB: To move quickly downwards, often referring to a head movement, akin to ducking.
4 Letters
DUCK: The clue itself, referring to the waterfowl or the act of evading.
5 Letters
ELUDE: To avoid or escape something, often by moving quickly, similar to how one might 'duck' a blow.
AVOID: To prevent something from happening or to keep away from someone or something, similar to the concept of ducking out of the way.
9 Letters
WATERFOWL: A general term for aquatic birds, including ducks, often used in more descriptive clues.
More About "crossword clue duck"
The clue "duck" is a classic example of a word with multiple meanings that can appear in crosswords. Depending on the context of the puzzle and other crossing letters, "duck" might refer to the popular aquatic bird, a quick evasive movement, or even less common definitions like a type of fabric or a cricket score of zero. This versatility makes it a favourite among crossword setters for crafting clever clues that can test a solver's knowledge of homonyms and different word senses.
Understanding which meaning is intended is crucial. Pay close attention to any additional words in the clue, as they often provide a hint towards the specific interpretation. For instance, words like "waterfowl" or "pond inhabitant" clearly point to the bird, while terms such as "dodge" or "evade" indicate the action of ducking. Always consider the length of the required answer, as this will narrow down the possibilities significantly, helping you land on the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider All Meanings: Many words, like "duck," have multiple definitions. Always think beyond the most obvious meaning, especially if the initial answers don't fit the letter count or crossing letters.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: If the clue hints at an action, brainstorm synonyms. For "duck" as an action, words like 'dodge,' 'avoid,' or 'bob' are good starting points.
- Analyze the Clue's Structure: Is it a noun? A verb? An adjective? The part of speech in the clue usually matches the part of speech of the answer. "Duck" can be both a noun (the bird) and a verb (the action).
- Use Crossing Letters Wisely: The letters you get from intersecting words are your best friends. They can eliminate many possibilities and confirm others. If 'D_CK' fits, you know you're looking for a four-letter word, likely 'DUCK' itself.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of "duck" in crosswords?
In crosswords, "duck" most commonly refers to the waterfowl bird, or to the action of quickly lowering one's head or body to avoid something. Less common meanings can include a type of strong cotton fabric or even a score of zero in cricket (a 'duck' or 'duck's egg').
How do I know if "duck" refers to the bird or an action?
The surrounding words in the clue are key. Clues like "Waterfowl," "pond dweller," or "quacker" typically point to the bird. Clues such as "evade," "avoid a blow," "bend quickly," or "move out of the way" suggest the action.
Are there other less common meanings for "duck" in puzzles?
Yes, beyond the bird and the action, "duck" can sometimes refer to a heavy, plain-woven cotton fabric. In British crosswords, it might occasionally refer to a zero score in cricket, as in 'getting a duck'. Context from other words in the clue and the number of letters in the answer will help differentiate.