crossword clue stain – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "stain" in your crossword, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution. Let's solve that puzzle together!
Solutions for "crossword clue stain" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MAR: To damage or spoil something, often superficially.
4 Letters
SPOT: A small area marked by a different color or substance.
BLOT: A spot or smudge, typically of ink; to make a mark.
SOIL: To make dirty; dirt or filth.
5 Letters
SULLY: To damage the purity or integrity of; defile.
TAINT: To contaminate or pollute (something); a trace of something bad.
6 Letters
SMUDGE: A dirty mark or smear.
7 Letters
BLEMISH: A small mark or flaw which spoils the appearance of something.
TARNISH: To lose or cause to lose lustre, especially as a result of exposure to air or moisture.
8 Letters
DISCOLOR: To change the color of something, especially by staining or fading.
More About "crossword clue stain"
The clue "stain" is a versatile term often encountered in crosswords, and its meaning can range from a physical mark to a metaphorical blemish. Physically, a stain can be a discoloration left by liquid, dirt, or other substances. This leads to answers like SPOT, BLOT, or SOIL. These are typically straightforward and refer to the visible mark itself.
Beyond the literal, "stain" can also imply damage to reputation or quality, leading to more abstract answers such as SULLY, TAINT, or MAR. When considering these, think about words that suggest defilement or impairment. The nuance of the clue often depends on the specific puzzle's constructor and the other crossing words, which can provide crucial hints to the intended meaning and required length.
Experienced solvers know that "stain" can sometimes lead to unexpected answers related to wood finishing (e.g., a wood stain) or even a particular type of dye. Always keep an open mind and consider all possible contexts when this clue appears, especially if the common answers don't fit your grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Word Length: Always confirm the number of letters required in the grid first. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "stain" and any other clue.
- Consider Synonyms and Related Concepts: Beyond direct synonyms, think about words that are causes or effects of staining, or types of stains. For "stain," this could include words related to dirt, marks, or damage.
- Look at Crossing Letters: The most powerful tip! Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These letters often eliminate incorrect answers and confirm the correct one.
- Context is Key: Pay attention to the puzzle's theme or the specific phrasing of the clue. Sometimes, a clue like "stain" might be part of a pun or a specific category of answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common answer for 'stain' in crosswords?
While answers vary by length, 'SPOT', 'BLOT', 'SOIL', and 'MAR' are very common short answers for 'stain' due to their direct meaning and frequent appearance in puzzles.
How can I figure out the length of a 'stain' answer?
The length of the answer is determined by the number of empty squares in the crossword grid. Always check the grid first to see how many letters are required, then look for answers that fit that specific length.
Are there different types of 'stain' clues?
Yes, 'stain' can refer to a physical mark (e.g., 'ink stain'), an act of making dirty (e.g., 'to stain a garment'), or even a metaphorical blemish (e.g., 'a stain on one's reputation'). Context from other clues in the puzzle can help narrow down the intended meaning.