degenerate crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "degenerate", organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzle-solving skills.
Solutions for "degenerate crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BASE: Morally low or without principles.
VILE: Extremely unpleasant or morally bad.
SINK: To fall to a lower level or quality.
5 Letters
DECAY: To rot or decompose; to decline in quality or strength.
7 Letters
CORRUPT: Having lost integrity; characterized by immorality or dishonesty.
IMMORAL: Not conforming to accepted standards of morality.
DEBASED: Reduced in quality or value; degraded.
8 Letters
DEPRAVED: Morally corrupt; wicked.
11 Letters
UNWHOLESOME: Not conducive to physical or moral health.
More About "degenerate crossword clue"
"Degenerate" is a multifaceted word that can appear in crosswords with several nuances, making it both challenging and interesting. At its core, it speaks to a decline, whether in moral character, physical state, or overall quality. This decline can be gradual, representing a slow worsening over time, or more sudden, signifying a collapse from a previous state. When you encounter this clue, consider the context of the puzzle: Is it a high-brow, literary crossword, or a more casual, everyday one?
The term often carries a negative connotation, implying a move away from an ideal or healthy state. In a biological sense, it can refer to the deterioration of cells or tissues, while in a social context, it might describe a society or individual losing their moral fibre. Recognizing these varied applications is key to unlocking the right answer. Always check the number of letters required and any intersecting words to narrow down the possibilities, as "degenerate" can lead to a surprisingly diverse set of solutions, from the concise "BASE" to the more expansive "UNWHOLESOME".
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Pay close attention to the other words in the clue. Is it "degenerate gambler" or "degenerate tissue"? The surrounding words can dramatically change the required answer.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters. This is your primary filter and will quickly eliminate many plausible but incorrect answers.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of words that mean the opposite of "degenerate" to get your brain working. Sometimes, a clue is phrased as "opposite of wholesome" which points directly to one of our answers.
- Look for Common Roots: Words like "decline," "decay," "debase" share the "de-" prefix, which often implies a downward movement or removal, fitting the theme of "degenerate."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'degenerate' mean in the context of crosswords?
In crosswords, 'degenerate' often refers to a decline in quality, moral standards, or physical condition. It can imply becoming worse, corrupt, or less desirable. Clues might hint at moral decay, physical deterioration, or a lowering of status.
Are there common synonyms or related concepts for 'degenerate' that appear in puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms or related concepts include terms like CORRUPT, DECAY, BASE, VILE, SINK, and DEPRAVED. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required and the nuance of the clue. Consider words related to moral decline, physical deterioration, or a general worsening state.
How can I choose the correct 'degenerate' answer if multiple options fit the letter count?
If multiple answers fit the letter count, look for intersecting letters from other clues. Also, consider the precise phrasing of the 'degenerate' clue – does it imply a moral sense, a physical one, or a general decline? The context often provides the subtle hint needed to pinpoint the exact word.