fans crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "fans", you've come to the right place. This page provides a comprehensive list of possible solutions, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. We've got you covered for all word lengths!
Solutions for "fans crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
BUFFS: Enthusiasts or experts in a particular subject or activity, often implying deep knowledge.
6 Letters
AIRERS: Devices that circulate air, often used for cooling rooms or drying clothes.
7 Letters
ROOTERS: People who support and cheer enthusiastically for a sports team or individual.
ADDICTS: Individuals who are extremely devoted to or enthusiastic about a particular hobby, interest, or activity, often to an excessive degree.
9 Letters
FOLLOWERS: People who support, admire, or are interested in a particular person, group, or set of ideas, often online or in a political context.
More About "fans crossword clue"
The clue "fans" is a classic example of a homograph in crosswords, a word with identical spelling but different meanings and origins. This dual nature is what makes it a popular choice for constructors aiming to add a layer of challenge. On one hand, "fans" can refer to ardent admirers or enthusiasts, like those at a sports game or concert. On the other, it denotes mechanical devices used for circulating air, such as ceiling fans or portable desk fans.
When encountering "fans" in a puzzle, your first step should be to consider the surrounding clues and the overall theme of the crossword. Is it a sports-themed puzzle? Then answers like ROOTERS or SUPPORTERS are highly probable. Is it about household items or weather? Then AIRERS or BLOWERS might be more fitting. The number of letters in the required answer is also a crucial hint, helping you narrow down the possibilities significantly.
Crossword solvers often find themselves deliberating between these two main interpretations. Sometimes, the setter might even drop a subtle hint within the clue itself, like "admirers of stars" versus "cooling devices." Being aware of these multiple meanings is key to cracking such clues and mastering the art of crossword solving.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always remember that many words, like "fans," have more than one meaning. Before settling on an answer, think about all possible interpretations of the clue.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is your most reliable guide. If you're thinking of "admirers," but the answer slot is for 6 letters, you might need to consider "airers" instead.
- Context is King: Look at the theme of the puzzle, if any, and the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. These can provide invaluable context to steer you towards the correct meaning.
- Synonym Brainstorming: For clues that are nouns or verbs, brainstorm as many synonyms as possible for each meaning of the word. This broadens your options and increases your chances of hitting the right answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does the clue 'fans' have multiple possible answers?
The word 'fans' is a homograph, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings: it can refer to admirers or enthusiasts (e.g., sports fans) or to mechanical devices that circulate air (e.g., ceiling fans). Crossword setters often use such words to create tricky clues that require context.
How can I determine which meaning of 'fans' is intended in a crossword?
Context is key. Look at surrounding clues, the number of letters in the answer, and any theme or common phrases within the puzzle. For example, if the puzzle has a sports theme, 'fans' likely refers to ROOTERS or SUPPORTERS. If it's about household items, AIRERS might be the answer.
Are there other common words like 'fans' that have multiple crossword meanings?
Yes, many words in the English language have multiple meanings that crossword constructors exploit. Examples include 'bank' (river edge or financial institution), 'spring' (season, coil, or jump), and 'light' (illumination, not heavy). Always consider all possible meanings of a clue.