dandy crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "dandy crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "dandy crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FOP: A man excessively concerned with his appearance and dress.
4 Letters
CHIC: Stylishly elegant; fashionable.
FINE: Of high quality; excellent; very good.
5 Letters
SWELL: Excellent; very good; a fashionable or elegant person.
NATTY: Smart and fashionable in dress or appearance.
9 Letters
EXCELLENT: Extremely good; of very high quality.
More About "dandy crossword clue"
"Dandy" is a fascinating word often appearing in crosswords because of its dual meaning. Historically, a dandy was a man who placed particular importance upon physical appearance, refined language, and leisurely hobbies, often in the pursuit of an aristocratic lifestyle despite not being born into nobility. Think of figures like Beau Brummell, who epitomized the dandy style in early 19th-century England.
However, "dandy" can also be used as an adjective meaning excellent, fine, or very good, as in "That's a dandy idea!" This duality makes it a versatile and sometimes tricky clue. Crossword setters love words with multiple interpretations, as it allows them to play with context and misdirection, requiring solvers to consider all possibilities based on the given letter count and intersecting words.
When you see "dandy" in a clue, pause to consider whether it's referring to the person (e.g., FOP, SWELL) or the quality (e.g., FINE, EXCELLENT). The surrounding letters will almost always give you the necessary hint to determine the correct interpretation and solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, like "dandy," have more than one definition. Always brainstorm all possible meanings of a clue word.
- Count the Letters: The most crucial tip! The number of letters in the answer is your best friend. Use it to eliminate possibilities quickly.
- Look for Synonyms: For descriptive clues, think of close synonyms. A thesaurus (or a crossword solver site like ours!) can be invaluable.
- Check Intersecting Words: The letters you fill in from intersecting clues can confirm or rule out potential answers. Use them as anchors.
- Pay Attention to Wordplay (Cryptic Clues): If it's a cryptic crossword, look for indicators of anagrams, hidden words, reversals, or other common wordplay devices.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'dandy' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'dandy' most often refers to a man who is excessively concerned with his appearance and dress (e.g., a FOP or SWELL). However, it can also mean something of excellent or high quality (e.g., FINE, EXCELLENT). The specific answer depends heavily on the letter count and other intersecting letters in the puzzle.
Are there common synonyms for 'dandy' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms frequently used as answers for 'dandy' include FOP, SWELL, NATTY, CHIC, and FINE. Less common but still possible might be words like STYLISH or SPRUCE. Always consider the precise meaning implied by the clue and the number of letters required.
How can I solve clues like 'dandy' more easily?
When encountering a clue like 'dandy,' first consider its primary meanings: a fashionable man or something excellent. Brainstorm synonyms for both interpretations. Use the number of letters provided and any already filled-in letters from intersecting words to narrow down the possibilities. If it's a cryptic clue, look for wordplay or hidden meanings.