drift crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "drift crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "drift crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ROAM: To wander or move about without a fixed destination, often aimlessly, much like drifting.
SWAY: To move or cause to move slowly to and fro or from side to side. Can imply a gentle, drifting movement.
5 Letters
FLOAT: To rest on the surface of a liquid without sinking, or to be suspended in a fluid, moving gently with currents.
6 Letters
WANDER: To move about without a fixed course, aimlessly, or idly. Synonymous with roam and often used in the context of drifting.
More About "drift crossword clue"
"Drift" is a versatile word in crosswords, often hinting at various forms of movement, tendencies, or accumulations. When you encounter "drift" as a clue, it's crucial to consider its multiple meanings. It can refer to the act of moving aimlessly by a current or air, such as a boat drifting in the ocean or smoke drifting through the air. In this sense, common answers might involve words like ROAM, FLOAT, or WANDER.
Beyond literal movement, "drift" can also imply a gradual tendency or deviation from a course, as in a 'drift in opinion' or a 'continental drift'. This aspect of the word can lead to answers related to subtle changes or inclinations. Furthermore, "drift" is used to describe an accumulation, most commonly a 'snowdrift' or 'sand drift', where material is piled up by wind or water. Being aware of these different contexts is key to unlocking the correct answer, as crossword setters love to play on such polysemy.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always think about the various interpretations of a word like "drift" – is it a verb (to move aimlessly), a noun (an accumulation), or an adjective (like a 'drift current')?
- Check Word Length: The number of letters required is your strongest hint. If you have an answer like "FLOAT" (5 letters) but need a 6-letter word, you know to look for alternatives like "WANDER."
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the clue might include a hint towards the specific meaning, such as "Snow pile" or "Oceanic flow." Pay attention to these subtle modifiers.
- Leverage Intersecting Words: If you have a few letters from crossing clues, these can narrow down the possibilities significantly. Don't guess; use the letters you already have.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common meanings of 'drift' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'drift' commonly refers to aimless movement (e.g., 'roam', 'wander', 'float'), a slow tendency or trend ('tend'), or an accumulation like a 'snowdrift'.
How do I differentiate between similar answers for 'drift'?
Consider the exact phrasing of the clue. Is it asking for a noun (like 'current', 'tendency') or a verb (like 'roam', 'float')? Also, check the number of letters required and any intersecting letters from other clues.
Can 'drift' also refer to a snowdrift or a current in crosswords?
Yes, 'drift' can indeed refer to a 'snowdrift' (an accumulation of snow) or a 'current' (a body of water or air moving in a particular direction). The context of the clue will usually indicate which meaning is intended.