dilapidated crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "dilapidated crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WORN: Describes something that is damaged or weakened from extensive use or age, often appearing shabby.
6 Letters
RUINED: Implies a state of complete destruction or decay, beyond repair, often used for buildings or structures.
SHABBY: Refers to something showing signs of wear and tear, often looking old, neglected, and in poor condition.
BROKEN: Implying something that is no longer in one piece or no longer works, often due to damage.
8 Letters
DECREPIT: Describes something old and in poor condition or health, often from age or continuous use, typically referring to people or things.
BATTERED: Indicates something that has been repeatedly hit or damaged, showing signs of severe wear.
9 Letters
CRUMBLING: Actively falling apart or disintegrating into small pieces.
10 Letters
RAMSHACKLE: Suggests a structure or vehicle in a state of severe disrepair, appearing likely to collapse.
TUMBLEDOWN: Specifically refers to a building or structure that is falling into ruin or decay.
13 Letters
WEATHERBEATEN: Damaged or discolored by exposure to the weather, often appearing worn out.
More About "dilapidated crossword clue"
"Dilapidated" is a rich word for crossword setters, as it opens up a wide array of synonyms and descriptive terms for items or structures in a state of decay. Originating from the Latin 'dilapidare' meaning 'to throw stones about' or 'to squander', it has evolved to describe things that are falling apart or in disrepair. This often implies a process of neglect or the passage of time leading to a worn-out or ruined state.
When you encounter 'dilapidated' in a crossword, think broadly about its implications. It could refer to an old house (RAMSHACKLE, TUMBLEDOWN), a piece of clothing (SHABBY, WORN), or even a general state of decline (DECREPIT, RUINED). The specific context provided by the rest of the clue, or by intersecting letters, will be crucial in narrowing down the possible answers from the many synonyms available.
Mastering such clues involves building a strong vocabulary of descriptive terms for states of decay and disrepair. Pay attention to the subtle differences between words – for instance, 'shabby' often implies neglect in appearance, while 'decrepit' suggests a more profound physical weakness due to age. Recognizing these nuances is key to selecting the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For words like "dilapidated," consider if the clue implies age, neglect, specific type of object (e.g., building, clothing), or a general state. This can help you choose between closely related synonyms.
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always double-check the exact number of letters needed for the answer. "Dilapidated" could lead to short answers like WORN (4) or much longer ones like WEATHERBEATEN (13).
- Leverage Intersecting Words: The letters from other completed words are your best friends. They can eliminate many possibilities and often leave you with only one viable solution for a tricky clue like this.
- Think Beyond Direct Synonyms: Sometimes the answer isn't a direct synonym but a descriptive phrase or a common state associated with the word. For "dilapidated," consider how things become dilapidated (e.g., through weathering, breaking).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'dilapidated' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'dilapidated' typically refers to something in a state of severe disrepair, decay, or ruin, often due to age or neglect. Clues might hint at old buildings, worn-out items, or general states of deterioration. Common answers often include synonyms like RUINED, DECREPIT, SHABBY, or WORN.
Are there different types of 'dilapidated' answers based on length?
Yes, answers for 'dilapidated' clues vary greatly by length. Shorter answers like WORN (4 letters) or RUINED (6 letters) are common, while longer answers could include DECREPIT (8 letters), RAMSHACKLE (10 letters), or TUMBLEDOWN (10 letters). The number of letters required is key to finding the correct solution.
How can I solve a crossword clue like 'dilapidated' more easily?
To solve clues like 'dilapidated,' first consider the letter count. Then, think of synonyms or descriptive words for something in poor condition. Check surrounding or intersecting letters for hints. Also, consider the specific context of the clue – is it a 'dilapidated house,' 'dilapidated car,' or 'dilapidated condition'? This can narrow down options.