crossword metal fastener – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Here you'll find all possible solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "crossword metal fastener". Whether you need quick help or a deeper understanding, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "crossword metal fastener" by Letter Count
3 Letters
NUT: A small piece of metal with a threaded hole, designed to be screwed onto a bolt to hold things together.
PIN: A thin, pointed piece of metal used for fastening or attaching things.
4 Letters
NAIL: A small metal spike with a broadened flat head, driven into materials to fasten them together.
BOLT: A metal rod or pin, typically with a head at one end and a thread at the other, used with a nut to fasten things together.
5 Letters
SCREW: A metal pin with a helical ridge, used to join materials by being rotated so that it bores its own hole.
RIVET: A short metal pin or bolt for joining two plates together, its headless end being hammered or pressed down when in place.
CLAMP: A device typically made of metal, used for gripping or holding things tightly.
6 Letters
WASHER: A flat ring, typically of metal, used to spread the load of a threaded fastener, or as a spacer, spring, lock, or vibration dampener.
STAPLE: A U-shaped piece of metal or wire with pointed ends, driven into a surface to hold or fasten something.
More About "crossword metal fastener"
Metal fasteners are a broad category of hardware that play a crucial role in construction, manufacturing, and everyday life. In the world of crosswords, they represent a versatile clue subject due to the variety of types, their functions, and the common phrases they appear in. Clues often test your knowledge of specific fastener names, their uses, or even their parts.
From the simple NAIL used in carpentry to the complex BOLT and NUT systems found in machinery, understanding the nuances of each can be key to unlocking a crossword puzzle. Sometimes the clue might be a riddle or a descriptive phrase like "a threaded joiner" pointing to a SCREW, or "a tight grip" leading to CLAMP. Being familiar with these common items, their names, and their basic functions will significantly boost your crossword solving prowess.
Crossword setters love using words with multiple meanings, and fasteners are no exception. For instance, 'NUT' could refer to the fastener, a type of food, or a crazy person. 'BOLT' could be the fastener or a sudden dash. Always keep an open mind and consider the context of the entire clue and surrounding letters to determine the intended meaning.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: If you know the number of letters, narrow down your options immediately. For "metal fastener," a 3-letter answer points to NUT or PIN, while a 5-letter answer suggests SCREW or RIVET.
- Think About Function: Does the clue hint at how the fastener is used? "Holds things together with a thread" is likely a SCREW or BOLT, while "driven with a hammer" suggests a NAIL.
- Look for Synonyms and Wordplay: Crossword clues often use synonyms or clever wordplay. A "metal connector" could be a fastener, or a "pointy binder" might indicate a PIN. Always consider alternative interpretations beyond the literal.
- Consult Cross-References: If you have some letters filled in from intersecting words, use them to quickly confirm or rule out potential fastener answers. This is a fundamental crossword strategy.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common types of metal fasteners found in crosswords?
Common metal fasteners often appearing in crosswords include NAIL, BOLT, SCREW, NUT, RIVET, WASHER, PIN, CLAMP, and STAPLE. Clues might focus on their function, shape, or common phrases they appear in.
How can I solve a crossword clue about a metal fastener?
Look for synonyms related to connection, joining, or construction. Consider the number of letters given, as many fasteners have distinct lengths (e.g., NUT is 3 letters, SCREW is 5 letters). Think about different contexts where fasteners are used, from carpentry to engineering.
Are there any tricky clues related to fasteners?
Yes, sometimes clues can be puns or involve wordplay. For example, 'Nut' could refer to the fastener or a type of food. 'Bolt' could be the fastener or a sudden movement. 'Pin' could be a fastener or a precise location. Always consider alternative meanings of the words in the clue and the puzzle's theme.