crossword clue refractory – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "refractory," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately. Explore the answers and their explanations below.
Solutions for "crossword clue refractory" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TOUGH: Often describes a material that is difficult to break or a person who is resilient and unyielding.
8 Letters
STUBBORN: Pertains to someone having or showing a determined unwillingness to change one's attitude or position on something.
9 Letters
OBSTINATE: Describes a person who stubbornly refuses to change their opinion or chosen course of action, despite attempts to persuade them.
12 Letters
RECALCITRANT: Denotes someone who has an obstinately uncooperative attitude toward authority or discipline, often used for unruly individuals or animals.
More About "crossword clue refractory"
"Refractory" is a word with a rich meaning, often appearing in crosswords to challenge solvers. It generally refers to something that is resistant to control, treatment, or change. This can apply to materials that resist heat (like firebricks in a furnace), diseases that don't respond to medication, or, most commonly in crosswords, people who are stubborn, unmanageable, or disobedient.
When you encounter "refractory" in a crossword, think about synonyms that convey a sense of resistance or inflexibility. The clue might be hinting at a physical property, but more often, it's a personality trait. Consider the context of the puzzle – is it a general knowledge crossword, or does it have a specific theme that might narrow down the meaning?
Understanding the nuances of "refractory" can unlock many related answers. Its Latin root, "refrāctārius," means "stubborn" or "rebellious," which perfectly aligns with its common crossword interpretations. Knowing these deeper meanings helps in anticipating the kind of synonyms a puzzle setter might be looking for.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Examine Word Lengths: Always start by checking the number of letters required. This is the quickest way to filter out many potential answers for clues like "refractory," which can have several synonyms.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters already filled in from intersecting clues. Even one confirmed letter can drastically narrow down the possibilities for a "refractory" answer from multiple options like STUBBORN and OBSTINATE.
- Consider Nuance and Context: While many synonyms exist for "refractory," some puzzles hint at a specific shade of meaning (e.g., medical vs. personal stubbornness). Pay attention to the overall puzzle theme or any subtle wording in the clue itself.
- Think about Suffixes and Prefixes: Sometimes, a clue might lead to a longer, less common word that includes a familiar root or prefix. While less common for "refractory" itself, it's a good general strategy.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'refractory' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'refractory' often points to answers related to being stubborn, resistant, unyielding, or difficult to manage, whether referring to a person, material, or condition. It implies resistance to control or treatment.
Are there common synonyms for 'refractory' used in puzzles?
Yes, frequently used synonyms include STUBBORN, OBSTINATE, ADAMANT, TOUGH, UNYIELDING, and sometimes even HARD or DIFFICULT, among others. The context of other solved letters usually helps narrow it down significantly.
How can I identify the correct answer for 'refractory' if multiple options fit?
Always check the number of letters required by the grid first. Additionally, look for intersecting letters from other clues, which will quickly confirm or rule out potential answers. Sometimes, the overall theme of the puzzle or the specific phrasing of other clues can offer subtle hints about the nuance of 'refractory' being sought.