decoy crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Q: What does 'decoy' mean in a crossword clue context?

In crosswords, 'decoy' often refers to something used to lure, tempt, or trick. Answers can range from literal objects like 'BAIT' or 'LURE' to actions like 'TEMPT' or even metaphorical figures like a 'STOOLPIGEON' or 'SHILL'.

Q: Are there common short answers for 'decoy'?

Yes, frequently seen short answers for 'decoy' include LURE (4 letters), BAIT (4 letters), and often TEMPT (5 letters) or STALL (5 letters) when the clue implies a delaying or misleading action.

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the crossword clue "decoy," designed to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.

Solutions for "decoy crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

LURE: Something used to attract an animal or person into a trap or danger, often for hunting or trapping purposes.

BAIT: Food or other enticement used to attract fish or other animals, typically placed on a hook or in a trap.

5 Letters

STALL: To use a trick or ruse to delay an action or decision; to hinder by a stratagem.

TEMPT: To entice or try to entice (someone) to do something, typically something inadvisable or forbidden.

SHILL: An accomplice of a hawker, gambler, or swindler who acts as an enthusiastic customer to entice others.

11 Letters

STOOLPIGEON: An informer, especially one who is a police spy; someone used to draw out others for detection.

More About "decoy crossword clue"

"Decoy" is a fascinating concept in crosswords, encompassing various meanings from a literal object designed to attract to a more abstract action intended to mislead or trick. This versatility makes it a popular clue, often requiring solvers to consider the precise context and letter count. Whether it's a 'LURE' in hunting or a 'STALL' tactic in negotiations, the core idea revolves around drawing something or someone in, often under false pretenses.

The term can apply to military strategies, where decoys are used to divert enemy attention, or even in everyday language to describe anything that diverts attention from the real target. Understanding these nuances can significantly aid in solving "decoy" related clues, pushing solvers beyond the most obvious answers to consider more lateral possibilities.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For "decoy," consider if the clue implies a physical object (LURE, BAIT), an action (TEMPT, STALL), or even a person (SHILL, STOOLPIGEON). The surrounding words in the clue often provide hints.
Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of available letters in the grid to the potential answers. This is the quickest way to eliminate many possibilities and narrow down your choices.
Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting words. These crucial letter placements can confirm or refute your guesses for "decoy" related answers.
Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of words that are direct synonyms of decoy, but also consider if the clue is asking for something that acts *like* a decoy.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "decoy" mean in a crossword clue context?

In crosswords, "decoy" often refers to something used to lure, tempt, or trick. Answers can range from literal objects like 'BAIT' or 'LURE' to actions like 'TEMPT' or even metaphorical figures like a 'STOOLPIGEON' or 'SHILL'.

How do I identify if a clue requires a "decoy" type answer?

Look for synonyms like 'trap', 'enticement', 'lure', 'bait', 'trick', 'snare', or phrases indicating misdirection or drawing something out. The number of letters in the answer will be a key factor in narrowing down possibilities.

Are there common short answers for "decoy"?

Yes, frequently seen short answers for "decoy" include LURE (4 letters), BAIT (4 letters), and often TEMPT (5 letters) or STALL (5 letters) when the clue implies a delaying or misleading action.