defended crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "defended crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get your puzzle solved.
Solutions for "defended crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
FENDED: To ward off or repel an attack or attacker, often used in phrases like 'fended off'.
UPHELD: To maintain or affirm something, like a decision or a law, in the face of opposition.
7 Letters
GUARDED: Protected or watched over to prevent harm or escape. Can also mean cautious or reserved in expression.
9 Letters
PROTECTED: Kept safe from harm or injury; defended. This is a very direct synonym for 'defended'.
More About "defended crossword clue"
The term "defended" in crossword clues often refers to a broad range of actions, from physical protection to verbal advocacy. In its most common usage, it implies shielding something or someone from harm or attack. This can manifest as a soldier defending a fort, a lawyer defending a client in court, or even a person defending their beliefs in an argument.
Crossword setters love to play with the various nuances of "defended". Sometimes, it might refer to the act of "fending off" an unwanted advance, while other times it might mean to "uphold" a principle or a ruling. Pay close attention to any surrounding words in the clue, as they often provide crucial context that narrows down the exact meaning and, consequently, the correct answer length and word choice.
Understanding these subtle differences is key to mastering such clues. For instance, if the clue hints at a legal context, words like "ADVOCATED" or "UPHELD" might be more appropriate than purely physical defense terms like "GUARDED" or "SHIELDED". Always consider the broader semantic field of the clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most important clue. If you have partial letters from intersecting words, this will significantly narrow down the possibilities for "defended".
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of all possible synonyms for "defended" and then consider what the opposite of 'defended' might imply, as setters sometimes use antonyms in wordplay clues.
- Look for Homophones or Puns: While "defended" might seem straightforward, some clues involve wordplay. For example, a clue could hint at something "defending" a goal in a game, leading to a different kind of answer.
- Check Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, the answer to an adjacent clue can give you a letter that unlocks "defended." Don't focus too narrowly on just one clue.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'defended' typically mean in crossword clues?
In crosswords, 'defended' usually points to words related to protection, guarding, upholding, or fending off. It can refer to physical protection, legal advocacy, or maintaining a position against opposition. Clues might use synonyms like 'protected', 'guarded', 'advocated for', 'argued for', or 'warded off'.
How do I choose between multiple possible answers for 'defended'?
To choose the correct answer, first check the number of letters required by the puzzle. Then, look at any intersecting letters you already have filled in. Finally, consider the specific nuance of the clue – does it imply physical defense, a legal argument, or something else? This context often helps narrow down the options.
Are there other synonyms for 'defended' commonly used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include 'SHIELDED', 'ADVOCATED', 'CHAMPIONED', 'BARRICADED', 'SECURED', and 'VINDICATED'. The exact word depends on the clue's subtlety and the required letter count.