fire crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on the "fire" clue in your crossword? You've come to the right place! Whether it's about flames, dismissal, or something else entirely, we've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers to help you complete your puzzle. Explore solutions by letter count, along with clear explanations, to quickly find the perfect fit.
Solutions for "fire crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BURN: To consume or be consumed by fire.
GLOW: To emit steady light, as of embers or hot coals; can also imply intense feeling.
CHAR: To burn and blacken the surface of something.
SACK: To dismiss someone from employment, often informally referred to as 'firing'.
5 Letters
BLAZE: A very large or fiercely burning fire.
FLAME: The visible, gaseous part of a fire; also a strong passion.
SHOOT: To discharge a firearm (fire a gun).
STOKE: To add fuel to a fire; to encourage strong emotions or a strong appetite.
6 Letters
IGNITE: To set on fire or cause to catch fire.
KINDLE: To start a fire; to arouse or inspire (an emotion or feeling).
INCITE: To encourage or stir up (violent or unlawful behavior).
7 Letters
DISMISS: Order or allow to leave; typically used in the context of being fired from a job.
More About "fire crossword clue"
The clue "fire" in a crossword puzzle is a classic example of how setters use wordplay and multiple meanings to challenge solvers. The word "fire" itself is polysemous, meaning it has several related but distinct meanings. It can refer to the element of combustion, the act of discharging a weapon, or the termination of employment. This versatility makes it a rich source of clues for crossword creators.
When encountering "fire," always consider the context. Is the clue hinting at a literal burning sensation, an emotional outburst, or perhaps a sudden action? Pay close attention to surrounding words, synonyms, and the number of letters required. A clue like "Set alight" points towards literal combustion, while "Let go from job" clearly indicates dismissal. Understanding these nuances is key to cracking such clues.
Often, "fire" clues can be a pivot point in a puzzle, helping you unlock entire sections once you determine its specific meaning in that particular crossword. It’s a word that tests your vocabulary breadth and your ability to think flexibly about language. Knowing the common answers across different lengths, as provided above, significantly increases your chances of success.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: As with "fire," many words have multiple definitions. If your first thought for a clue doesn't fit, think of other meanings or uses of the word.
- Check Cross-References: Use letters from intersecting words. Even one confirmed letter can narrow down possibilities dramatically for a tricky clue like "fire."
- Look for Homophones/Homographs: Crossword setters love to play with words that sound alike (homophones) or are spelled alike but have different meanings (homographs), like "fire." Be alert to these linguistic tricks.
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: Is the clue playful, serious, formal, or informal? This can hint at the type of answer expected. For instance, an informal clue for "fire" might lead to "SACK," while a formal one might be "DISMISS."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'fire' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'fire' in crosswords often relate to its various meanings: 'burn,' 'blaze,' 'flame,' 'ignite,' or 'kindle' for the literal sense. For its figurative uses, answers like 'sack,' 'dismiss,' 'shoot,' or 'incite' are also frequently seen, depending on the clue's context.
How can the clue 'fire' have so many different answers?
The word 'fire' is a homograph, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings while being spelled the same. It can refer to combustion, the act of shooting a projectile, or terminating employment. Crossword setters leverage these different meanings to create challenging and diverse clues, requiring solvers to consider the precise context of the clue.
Are there any common misinterpretations of 'fire' clues?
Yes, a common pitfall is immediately thinking of 'fire' only as a combustion process. However, many clues use its other meanings, such as 'fire' as in to 'shoot a weapon' (e.g., 'Fire a round') or 'fire' as in 'dismiss from a job' (e.g., 'Fire an employee'). Always consider alternative definitions if a literal interpretation doesn't fit the letter count or surrounding letters.