Are there different types of "spread" clues in crosswords?

Yes, "spread" clues can be literal (e.g., "Toast topping"), figurative (e.g., "News item"), or even related to specific items or actions (e.g., "Cards on a table"). It's important to consider if the clue points to a noun (the spread itself) or a verb (the act of spreading). Often, the setters will hint at the specific nuance through other words in the clue.

crossword clue spread – All Crossword Answers

Q: How can I find common answers for "spread"?

When encountering "spread" clues, think about its various meanings: a culinary item (BUTTER, JAM), an action of extending (WIDEN, EXTEND), a general distribution (DIFFUSE, DISPERSE), or broadcasting information (ANNOUNCE, BROADCAST). Consider synonyms for expansion, diffusion, or covering. Check the letter count to narrow down possibilities quickly.

Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "spread," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, ranging from common culinary items to actions of expansion and dissemination, along with explanations to help you understand the nuances.

Solutions for "crossword clue spread" by Letter Count

3 Letters

JAM: A sweet fruit preserve often spread on bread or toast. (e.g., "Toast topper")

4 Letters

COAT: To apply a thin layer over a surface. (e.g., "Apply a thin layer")

5 Letters

WIDEN: To make or become broader or more expansive. (e.g., "Make broader")

6 Letters

EXTEND: To stretch out, lengthen, or make larger in scope. (e.g., "Stretch out")

BUTTER: A common dairy product, often yellowish, used as a spread on food. (e.g., "Breakfast spread")

7 Letters

DIFFUSE: To scatter or spread out over a wide area, often in a dispersed manner. (e.g., "Scatter widely")

8 Letters

DISPERSE: To distribute or spread over a wide area. (e.g., "Distribute far and wide")

ANNOUNCE: To make known publicly, often widely, like news spreading quickly. (e.g., "Make known, as news")

9 Letters

BROADCAST: To transmit or disseminate widely, especially via radio or television, or to spread information. (e.g., "Transmit widely")

11 Letters

PROLIFERATE: To increase rapidly in numbers; multiply quickly. (e.g., "Multiply rapidly")

More About "crossword clue spread"

"Spread" is a highly versatile word in the English language, making it a favorite for crossword setters aiming for clues with multiple possible interpretations. It can function as a verb, referring to the act of extending something over a surface or a wider area, or as a noun, denoting a substance applied to food, a large piece of land, or even the act of distributing information. This linguistic flexibility is what often makes "spread" clues both challenging and rewarding to solve.

When you encounter "spread" in a crossword, consider the context and any accompanying words. Does the clue suggest a physical action, a type of food, or perhaps something abstract like the expansion of an idea or a disease? The number of letters provided is your most important hint, helping you narrow down the possibilities significantly. Remember that crossword clues often play on synonyms, homonyms, and double meanings, so a broad understanding of the word's uses is beneficial.

From a culinary "spread" like jam or butter, to the "spread" of a news story across the globe, or even the "spread" of a deck of cards for a game, the answers can vary widely. Pay attention to whether the clue hints at a literal interpretation or a more figurative one. A successful solve often comes from identifying which specific meaning of "spread" the setter intends.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider Multiple Meanings: For words like "spread," always think about its various definitions – as a verb, a noun, and in different contexts (culinary, informational, spatial).
Check Letter Count First: Before brainstorming, use the letter count to eliminate unlikely answers. This is the most crucial step for multi-faceted clues.
Look for Context Clues: Other words in the clue are vital. "Toast topping" for "spread" strongly points to a food item, whereas "News item" suggests information dissemination.
Use Intersecting Letters: Don't try to solve the clue in isolation. Once you have a few letters from intersecting words, fill them in. These partial letters are often the key to unlocking "spread" and similar ambiguous clues.
Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: Sometimes, the clue uses a synonym of "spread," or even an antonym with a negative prefix. Broaden your vocabulary search beyond the most obvious definitions.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "spread" mean in a crossword clue?

The term "spread" in crosswords is versatile. It can refer to various concepts, from physical distribution (like applying butter) to the wide dissemination of information (like news spreading). It often implies expansion, diffusion, or a covering layer.

How can I find common answers for "spread"?

Consider synonyms for expansion (EXTEND, WIDEN), culinary items (BUTTER, JAM), or terms for widely distributing information (ANNOUNCE, BROADCAST). The number of letters is key to narrowing it down.

Are there different types of "spread" clues?

Yes, clues can be literal (e.g., "Toast topping") or more figurative (e.g., "News item"). They can also refer to geographic areas (e.g., "Ranch spread") or the act of opening something out, for example, a deck of cards.