froth at the mouth crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the clue "froth at the mouth", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find comprehensive solutions, explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "froth at the mouth crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FOAM: This is a direct and common synonym for froth, referring to a mass of small bubbles formed on or in a liquid.
RAGE: Often, "froth at the mouth" is used idiomatically to describe someone who is extremely angry or enraged.
5 Letters
SPUME: A poetic or more specific term for froth or foam, particularly that found on waves or emitted from the mouth of an animal.
8 Letters
SALIVATE: While not directly meaning froth, excessive salivation can sometimes appear frothy, especially in certain medical contexts or when an animal is agitated.
More About "froth at the mouth crossword clue"
"Froth at the mouth" is an intriguing crossword clue because it plays on both the literal and figurative meanings of the phrase. Literally, it describes the bubbling secretion of saliva, often associated with certain animal behaviors or medical conditions. Figuratively and perhaps more commonly in everyday language, it vividly portrays a state of extreme anger, fury, or passionate agitation, so intense that one might metaphorically foam at the mouth.
Crossword setters love clues with dual interpretations, as it allows for a broader range of possible answers and challenges the solver to think beyond the obvious. When you encounter this clue, consider both the physical manifestation of froth and the emotional state it represents. The letter count and surrounding filled-in letters in your puzzle will often guide you to the correct interpretation.
Understanding the nuances of such idiomatic phrases is key to becoming a master crossword solver. This particular idiom has historical roots in descriptions of rabies or intense physical exertion, which adds to its evocative power in language and puzzles alike.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always look at the surrounding clues and any theme the puzzle might have. If the puzzle is themed around emotions, 'RAGE' might be favored. If it's about natural phenomena, 'FOAM' or 'SPUME' could be the answer.
- Check Letter Count: The length of the answer box is your most crucial hint. Carefully match the possible words with the available spaces. For "froth at the mouth", you might have options ranging from 4 to 8 letters.
- Consider Synonyms and Idioms: For tricky clues, think of direct synonyms (like FOAM for froth) and common idioms (like frothing at the mouth for RAGE). Many crossword clues rely on wordplay and common expressions.
- Practice Common Crossword Tropes: Phrases with both literal and figurative meanings are common. Familiarize yourself with how setters use them to provide multiple solution paths.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'froth at the mouth' a common crossword clue?
'Froth at the mouth' is a popular clue due to its dual interpretation: literal (like foam or spume) and metaphorical (indicating extreme anger or rage). This allows setters to use various answers depending on the context or surrounding letters, challenging solvers to consider both meanings.
How do I distinguish between literal and figurative answers for this clue?
Look for accompanying words in the clue or puzzle. If the puzzle has a theme related to emotions or intense feelings, 'RAGE' or 'FURY' might be more likely. If it's about physical substances or animal behavior, 'FOAM' or 'SPUME' could fit. The number of letters required is also a key indicator.
Are there other phrases with similar meanings that appear in crosswords?
Yes, clues like 'be furious', 'show great anger', or 'foam up' can lead to similar answers. For the literal meaning, 'sea foam' or 'suds' might appear. Always consider synonyms and idiomatic expressions related to the clue.