dock crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "dock crossword puzzle clue". We've gathered all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to ensure you solve your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "dock crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
PIER: A structure extending out from the shore into a body of water, often used as a landing place for boats or for walking over the water.
MOOR: To secure a boat or ship to a fixed object, such as a buoy, pier, or anchor.
5 Letters
WHARF: A level quayside area to which a ship may be moored to load and unload.
BERTH: A designated place where a ship or boat can be moored.
ABATE: To lessen or reduce something, often used in the context of reducing pay or a nuisance.
6 Letters
HARBOR: A place on the coast where ships may find shelter, especially one protected from rough weather by artificial structures; also, to provide shelter or refuge.
More About "dock crossword puzzle clue"
"Dock" is a versatile word in the English language, making it a favorite for crossword constructors due to its multiple meanings. Primarily, it refers to a structure built along or at an angle from the shore of a harbor or on the bank of a river or lake, used for the mooring of vessels or for handling cargo. This definition brings forth answers like PIER, WHARF, or QUAY, each with subtle differences in their design and primary use but all serving a similar purpose in the context of watercraft.
Beyond its nautical sense, "dock" can also function as a verb meaning to cut short, reduce, or deduct from something, such as docking pay or docking an animal's tail. This usage often leads to answers like ABATE, TRIM, or CURTAIL. Understanding the surrounding clues and the theme of the puzzle is crucial when encountering "dock" to discern which meaning is intended. For instance, a clue related to wages would point towards the reduction meaning, while a clue about ships would indicate the waterfront structure.
Another less common, but still valid, meaning refers to the enclosed space in a criminal court where the accused stands during a trial. While less frequent in daily crosswords, seasoned solvers might encounter this meaning. The beauty of "dock" in crosswords lies in its ability to challenge solvers to consider all its facets, from the bustling port to a precise cut, demanding a comprehensive vocabulary and contextual awareness.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: For clues like "dock," which have multiple meanings, always scrutinize the surrounding clues. Are there other nautical terms? Or is the puzzle leaning towards financial or anatomical themes? This can quickly narrow down the possibilities.
- Count Your Letters Carefully: The exact number of letters provided for the answer is your most important guide. While "PIER" and "MOOR" both refer to boat structures, their different lengths will tell you which one is correct if you have the crossing letters.
- Consider Verbs and Nouns: "Dock" can be both a noun (a structure) and a verb (to reduce). Identify if the clue requires a noun or a verb. For example, "place for ships" points to a noun, while "cut short" points to a verb.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, the most straightforward answer isn't the one. If the common answers don't fit, consider more obscure or less frequent definitions, like the courtroom 'dock'.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'dock' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'dock' can include PIER, WHARF, QUAY, BERTH, and JETTY when referring to a structure for boats. When 'dock' means to reduce or cut, answers like ABATE, TRIM, or CURTAIL might be appropriate.
How does context help when 'dock' has multiple meanings?
The surrounding clues and the number of letters in the answer are crucial. If another clue suggests a nautical theme, 'pier' or 'wharf' are likely. If the puzzle hints at finance or reducing something, 'abate' or 'trim' would be better fits. Always look at crossing letters!
Are there any less common meanings of 'dock' in crosswords?
Beyond the common meanings of a landing structure or reducing something, 'dock' can also refer to the enclosed area in a courtroom where the accused stands (e.g., THE BOX). Context will always be key for these less common usages.