fitch crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "fitch crossword clue", helping you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately. We provide answers by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword knowledge.
Solutions for "fitch crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
POLECAT: A fitch is another name for a polecat, a carnivorous mammal belonging to the weasel family, often kept for hunting or its fur.
6 Letters
WEASEL: While not a direct synonym, a fitch (polecat) is a type of weasel-like animal, making WEASEL a plausible answer in some broader or trickier clues.
5 Letters
BRUSH: A 'fitch brush' is a specific type of artist's paintbrush, historically made from the fur of a polecat (fitch), known for its fine tip and stiffness.
More About "fitch crossword clue"
The term "fitch" in crossword puzzles often refers to two distinct meanings, which can sometimes trip up solvers. The most common interpretation points to the animal, specifically a polecat. Polecats are small, nocturnal mammals related to weasels, ferrets, and minks, known for their dark brown fur and, in some species, a strong musky odor when threatened. They are native to Europe, Asia, and North Africa and are sometimes bred for their fur or for hunting pests.
However, "fitch" also has a significant meaning in the art world. A "fitch brush" is a type of paintbrush, traditionally made from the hair of a fitch (polecat). These brushes are prized by artists, particularly for sign painting, decorative arts, and fine detail work, due to their unique combination of softness and spring, allowing for smooth, controlled strokes and sharp edges. Understanding both contexts is key to tackling "fitch" clues effectively.
When encountering this clue, always consider the letter count and any other intersecting letters you might have. If the clue has an artistic leaning, then 'BRUSH' is almost certainly the answer. If the context is animal-related, then 'POLECAT' or 'WEASEL' are strong candidates. Crossword setters love to use words with multiple meanings to challenge solvers, and 'fitch' is a classic example.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always cross-reference the number of letters required by the grid with your potential answers. This is often the quickest way to narrow down possibilities for words like "fitch" with multiple meanings.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words in crosswords, like "fitch," have more than one definition. If your first thought doesn't fit, think about other less common or archaic meanings of the word.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: The letters you get from solving crossing words are invaluable. These letters will either confirm or rule out your initial guesses for the "fitch" clue, guiding you to the correct answer.
- Context is King: Pay attention to the wording of the clue itself. Does it imply an animal, an object, or an action? Subtle hints in the clue can steer you towards the right interpretation of a multi-faceted word.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "fitch" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'fitch' commonly refers to two main things: a small, carnivorous mammal also known as a polecat, or a specific type of artist's paintbrush, historically made from polecat fur. The context of other clues or the letter count will usually indicate which meaning is intended.
Are there common synonyms for fitch in crosswords?
Yes, for the animal meaning, 'POLECAT' is the most direct synonym and frequent answer. Related terms like 'WEASEL' might also appear depending on the clue's nuance. For the artist's tool meaning, 'BRUSH' is the common answer, though specific materials like 'SABLE' could sometimes be relevant if the clue allows.
How can I distinguish between the different meanings of 'fitch' in a crossword?
To distinguish, always check the letter count and intersecting letters first. If the clue mentions anything about art, painting, or artists, 'BRUSH' is likely. If it refers to an animal, fur, or wildlife, 'POLECAT' or 'WEASEL' are strong contenders. Consider the overall theme of the puzzle or other clues for further hints.