gaunt or drawn crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your definitive source for solving tricky crossword clues. On this page, you'll find all potential answers for "gaunt or drawn crossword clue," complete with explanations and organized by letter count to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "gaunt or drawn crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
WAN: Pale and appearing unwell or exhausted, often referring to a person's complexion.
4 Letters
PALE: Light in color or shade, often associated with a lack of vibrancy or health in a person's appearance.
THIN: Having a small distance between opposite sides, specifically referring to a lean or slender body shape often implying gauntness.
7 Letters
HAGGARD: Looking exhausted and unwell, especially from fatigue, worry, or suffering. Directly implies a gaunt or drawn appearance.
9 Letters
EMACIATED: Abnormally thin or weak, especially because of illness or a lack of food.
More About "gaunt or drawn crossword clue"
The clue "gaunt or drawn" often appears in crosswords to describe an appearance that suggests ill health, fatigue, or severe stress. Both "gaunt" and "drawn" convey a sense of a diminished or unhealthy physical state. "Gaunt" typically refers to an extreme thinness, where bones might be prominent, giving a hollowed-out look. "Drawn," on the other hand, often describes a face that shows signs of strain or worry, where features might appear tightened or sunken. Together, they create a powerful image of someone significantly affected by hardship.
Crossword setters love using such synonyms because they offer a range of possible answers depending on the required letter count. Common answers like HAGGARD directly combine both concepts, while others like WAN or PALE focus on the lack of color or vitality that often accompanies a gaunt or drawn look. Understanding these nuances can greatly assist in selecting the correct word for your puzzle, especially when multiple possibilities exist.
When you encounter this clue, consider the broader context of the puzzle. Is it a themed puzzle? Are there other clues related to health or emotions? Sometimes, a deeper understanding of the vocabulary and its common crossword interpretations can unlock the most elusive answers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always compare the number of letters in the answer grid to the possible solutions provided. This is your most direct filter.
- Examine Intersecting Letters: If you have letters from intersecting clues, use them to confirm or narrow down your options. Even one letter can often pinpoint the exact answer.
- Consider Nuances of Synonyms: While many words are synonyms, they often have slightly different connotations. For "gaunt or drawn," think about which word best fits the specific visual imagery or emotional state the clue might be subtly implying.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, crossword setters use less common synonyms or a word that captures the essence of the clue in a less direct way. Be open to considering a wider range of vocabulary.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'gaunt or drawn' mean in a crossword context?
'Gaunt or drawn' typically refers to a person's appearance, suggesting they look very thin, hollow-cheeked, or unwell, often due to illness, hunger, or exhaustion. In crosswords, common synonyms include words like HAGGARD, WAN, PALE, or THIN, all pointing to a sickly or emaciated look.
Why are there multiple answers for 'gaunt or drawn'?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers because English has many synonyms and words with similar meanings. The specific answer needed depends on the number of letters in the answer grid and the intersecting letters provided by other clues. Always check the length and cross-referenced letters to determine the correct fit.
How can I distinguish between 'gaunt' and 'drawn' in a clue?
While often used together or interchangeably in crosswords, 'gaunt' usually emphasizes extreme thinness or skeletal appearance, while 'drawn' often implies a look of strain, fatigue, or stress where facial features might appear sunken or pulled. Both point to an unhealthy or tired appearance, and context (like letter count) is key.