eclipse crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! You've landed on the ultimate resource for the "eclipse crossword clue." Whether you're stuck on a tricky puzzle or just curious about possible solutions, we've got you covered. Find all potential answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your crossword with confidence.
Solutions for "eclipse crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
DIM: To make or become less bright or distinct; a common visual effect during an eclipse, where light is reduced.
4 Letters
WANE: To decrease in size, extent, or power; often associated with the moon's phases, which can lead to eclipses. Can also metaphorically mean to diminish or fade.
6 Letters
DARKEN: To make or become dark, as the sky or a celestial body does during an eclipse due to the blockage of light.
SHADOW: The dark area produced by an opaque body coming between rays of light and a surface; an eclipse is fundamentally a celestial body casting a shadow.
7 Letters
OBSCURE: To hide or make something difficult to see, like an eclipse obscures the sun or moon from view.
More About "eclipse crossword clue"
The clue "eclipse" is a classic in crosswords, often testing a solver's ability to think beyond the most literal interpretation. While it most commonly refers to the astronomical phenomenon where one celestial body temporarily blocks the light of another, its meaning in a crossword puzzle can be far more nuanced. Setters frequently use "eclipse" to mean 'to obscure', 'to surpass', 'to diminish', or even 'to outshine'. This versatility makes it a rich clue for wordplay.
Understanding the dual nature of "eclipse" – both its literal scientific definition and its figurative meanings – is key to cracking these clues. Depending on the length of the required answer and the context provided by intersecting letters, you might need to consider synonyms for 'block', 'hide', 'dim', 'outdo', or 'overshadow'. Always consider the puzzle's theme and the setter's style, as they can hint at whether a scientific or a more abstract answer is required.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For clues like "eclipse," always think about both the literal (astronomical event) and figurative (to obscure, surpass, diminish) meanings.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is your strongest hint. It helps narrow down possibilities significantly.
- Look for Intersections: Use letters from already-solved intersecting words. These fixed letters will quickly eliminate incorrect answers and point you towards the right one.
- Think Synonyms: If the direct definition doesn't fit, brainstorm synonyms for 'eclipse' in all its different senses (e.g., for 'hide', 'darken', 'outshine').
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a solar and lunar eclipse?
A solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes between the Sun and Earth, casting a shadow on Earth and blocking the Sun's light. A lunar eclipse happens when the Earth passes between the Sun and Moon, casting a shadow on the Moon and making it appear dim or reddish. Both are celestial events often referenced in crosswords.
How do I know if a crossword clue is asking for a literal or figurative meaning?
Crossword clues often play on words' multiple meanings. Look for context clues in the phrasing, the tense of the verb, or surrounding words. For 'eclipse', it could mean the astronomical event or metaphorically 'to surpass' or 'to obscure'. The letter count and intersecting letters will often guide you to the correct interpretation.
Why do crosswords use words like 'eclipse' that have multiple meanings?
Crossword setters love words with multiple meanings (homographs, polysemes) because they allow for clever wordplay and misdirection. It makes the puzzle more challenging and rewarding when you figure out which meaning is intended, testing your vocabulary and lateral thinking skills.