crossword clue tartan cloth – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "tartan cloth" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, complete with explanations and categorized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue tartan cloth" by Letter Count
4 Letters
KILT: A traditional Scottish garment made from tartan cloth.
5 Letters
PLAID: A pattern consisting of criss-crossed horizontal and vertical bands in multiple colours, often used synonymously with tartan.
6 Letters
TARTAN: The distinctive patterned woollen cloth, especially associated with Scottish clans, which is the direct material implied by the clue.
More About "tartan cloth"
Tartan cloth is a world-renowned textile, instantly recognizable by its characteristic criss-cross patterns of horizontal and vertical bands in various colours. Originating in the Highlands of Scotland, it is traditionally woven from wool. Each unique pattern, known as a 'sett,' was historically associated with specific regions or, more recently, particular Scottish clans.
Beyond its use in traditional garments like kilts, tartan cloth has become a global fashion statement and a symbol of Scottish heritage. Its rich history and intricate designs make it a fascinating subject, often appearing in crosswords to test knowledge of textiles, culture, and geography.
Understanding the nuances between 'tartan' and 'plaid' can be helpful for crossword solvers, as these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, particularly in North America, while 'tartan' holds a more specific, historical definition.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and related terms: For clues like "tartan cloth", think about garments made from it (KILT) or similar patterns (PLAID). Sometimes the answer is a direct synonym, sometimes a related concept.
- Check word length constraints: If you have some letters filled in, use the length of the answer to narrow down possibilities. Our site conveniently groups answers by their letter count.
- Think culturally and geographically: Many clues, especially those related to specific materials or items, have strong cultural ties. Knowing a bit about Scottish heritage helps with "tartan cloth".
- Utilize context: The surrounding clues and the puzzle's theme can sometimes offer hints or confirm your suspicions about an answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between 'tartan' and 'plaid'?
While often used interchangeably, 'tartan' specifically refers to the patterned woollen cloth originating in Scotland, with each design (or 'sett') historically linked to a particular clan or district. 'Plaid' is a broader term for a pattern of intersecting stripes and checks, and in North America, it's often used to describe any criss-cross pattern, whether or not it's a true Scottish tartan.
Why are tartans associated with Scottish clans?
The association of specific tartan patterns with Scottish clans became formalized in the 19th century. Historically, tartans were regional rather than clan-specific, but the romanticized Victorian era solidified the idea of a 'clan tartan' as a symbol of identity and heritage. Today, many clans have officially registered patterns.
Can any fabric be called tartan cloth?
Traditionally, true tartan cloth is woven from wool in Scotland and follows specific, registered patterns. While the term 'tartan' is sometimes used loosely for any fabric with a similar criss-cross pattern, especially outside Scotland, technically, it refers to the authentic Scottish textile with its precise design conventions.