crossword clue herb – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "crossword clue herb", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential solutions, organized by length, to help you swiftly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue herb" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DILL: A popular annual herb in the celery family Apiaceae, often used to flavor pickles and fish.
MINT: Aromatic plants known for their distinctive flavor, commonly used in food, teas, and candies.
SAGE: An aromatic herb with a slightly peppery flavor, widely used in cooking, especially with poultry and pork.
5 Letters
THYME: A fragrant evergreen herb from the mint family, frequently used in Mediterranean cuisine.
BASIL: A culinary herb in the mint family, known for its sweet, pungent flavor, central to Italian pesto.
7 Letters
OREGANO: A strongly aromatic Mediterranean herb, a staple in Italian, Greek, and Mexican cooking.
PARSLEY: A widely cultivated herb in the celery family, used as a garnish or for its fresh, slightly peppery flavor.
8 Letters
ROSEMARY: An aromatic evergreen shrub with needle-like leaves, popular in Mediterranean cooking.
CILANTRO: The leaves of the coriander plant, widely used in Mexican, Asian, and Indian cuisine.
TARRAGON: A perennial herb with a distinctive bittersweet flavor, essential in French cooking.
More About "crossword clue herb"
Herbs are a common and beloved category in crossword puzzles, often appearing due to their short, distinct names and wide variety. Clues can range from straightforward botanical references to culinary uses, or even metaphorical interpretations of words like "sage" (wise person). Familiarity with common kitchen herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, mint, and dill is a significant advantage for solvers.
Crossword constructors love to use herbs because they offer a diverse range of letter counts, from the concise 'DILL' to the longer 'ROSEMARY' or 'CILANTRO'. Contextual clues might hint at their origin (e.g., Mediterranean, Asian) or their primary use (e.g., for tea, for poultry). Paying attention to these details can often narrow down the possibilities significantly, helping you pinpoint the exact herb needed for your grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the cuisine: If the clue hints at a specific cuisine (e.g., "Italian seasoning"), think of herbs commonly associated with that culinary tradition (e.g., BASIL, OREGANO).
- Check letter count: Always double-check the number of letters in your potential answer against the required length in the crossword grid.
- Look for synonyms or wordplay: Some clues might use synonyms for a herb's characteristic (e.g., "aromatic plant") or play on words (e.g., "Wise man's herb" for SAGE).
- Recall common herb families: Knowing that mint, sage, and basil are all part of the mint family can sometimes help connect clues.
- Don't forget less common ones: While common herbs are frequent, be prepared for less obvious ones like tarragon or marjoram if the clue strongly points to them.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common herb in crossword puzzles?
While many herbs appear, 'SAGE', 'MINT', 'DILL', and 'THYME' are very common due to their short lengths and distinct meanings, making them frequent solutions.
How can I identify a herb clue if I only have a few letters?
Consider common herb names that fit the letter pattern. Think about herbs used in common dishes or associated with specific cuisines (e.g., basil for Italian, cilantro for Mexican). The clue might also provide a hint like 'aromatic plant' or 'kitchen seasoning'.
Are there any trick clues for 'herb'?
Sometimes clues play on words, like 'Parsley, for example' or 'A fragrant green'. Less common herbs or specific varieties might also appear to challenge solvers, so expanding your culinary vocabulary can be helpful.