defect crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "defect crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "defect crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MAR: To impair the appearance of; disfigure or spoil. Often refers to a slight flaw.
4 Letters
FLAW: An imperfection or weakness in something; a blemish.
5 Letters
FAULT: A bad feature or habit; a defect or failing. Also, a break in a geological formation.
6 Letters
DESERT: To abandon (a person, cause, or organization) in a way considered disloyal. A common verb form for 'defect'.
7 Letters
ABANDON: To cease to support or look after (someone); desert. Another common verb form.
BLEMISH: A small mark or flaw which spoils the appearance of something. Often used for physical imperfections.
12 Letters
IMPERFECTION: A fault, blemish, or undesirable feature; the state of being imperfect.
More About "defect crossword clue"
"Defect" is a versatile word in crosswords, often appearing in two main contexts: as a noun referring to a flaw or imperfection, and as a verb meaning to abandon or desert. Understanding which interpretation the clue is hinting at is crucial for a successful solve. Clues might use synonyms like "blemish," "fault," or "mar" for the noun form, while for the verb, you might see "desert," "abandon," or "go AWOL."
The beauty of crossword clues like "defect" lies in their potential for ambiguity, which puzzle constructors cleverly exploit. Always consider the letter count you need, as this will immediately narrow down the possibilities. For instance, a four-letter answer points more towards FLAW, while a six or seven-letter answer might indicate DESERT or ABANDON.
Remember that crosswords often play on multiple meanings of a word. If a common noun answer doesn't fit, consider the less obvious verb form, or vice-versa. Context from surrounding clues and letters already filled in will be your best guide in these situations.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: As with "defect," many words have multiple meanings (noun, verb, adjective). Always think beyond the most common interpretation.
- Check intersecting letters: Don't force an answer. If an answer doesn't fit with the letters you already have, it's likely incorrect, even if it seems plausible.
- Look for synonyms and antonyms: Crossword clues often use synonyms, or sometimes even antonyms with a negation (e.g., "not perfect" for FLAW).
- Pay attention to word length: This is your most powerful tool. It instantly eliminates many possibilities and guides you toward the correct answer.
- Recognize common crossword jargon: Phrases like "a, an, the" might be filler, while words like "initially" or "finally" could point to acronyms or specific letters.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'defect' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'defect' can refer to a flaw or imperfection (noun) or to abandon/desert a cause or country (verb). The specific answer depends on the number of letters and other intersecting clues.
How can I distinguish between the noun and verb forms of 'defect' in a crossword clue?
The surrounding words in the clue often provide context. Phrases like 'a fault' or 'a blemish' suggest the noun form (e.g., FLAW, BLEMISH), while phrases like 'leave service' or 'go AWOL' point towards the verb form (e.g., DESERT, ABANDON).
Are there common synonyms for 'defect' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for 'defect' as a noun include FLAW, FAULT, MAR, BLEMISH, and IMPERFECTION. As a verb, synonyms often include DESERT, ABANDON, or RENEGE.