gear crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're grappling with the clue "gear" in your crossword puzzle, you've landed on the right page. We've compiled all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck. Let's solve this together!
Solutions for "gear crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
COG: A tooth on a wheel or bar that engages with another tooth or bar to transmit or change motion.
RIG: Equipment for a particular purpose, especially on a ship or in oil extraction.
KIT: A set of articles or equipment needed for a specific purpose.
6 Letters
TACKLE: Equipment, especially that used in a sport or for a particular activity.
OUTFIT: A set of clothes worn together, or equipment for a particular purpose.
9 Letters
EQUIPMENT: The necessary items for a particular purpose.
APPARATUS: A complex machine or device for a particular purpose.
More About "gear crossword clue"
"Gear" is a versatile word in the English language, making it a common and sometimes tricky clue in crosswords. It can refer to a wide array of items, from the mechanical components within a clock or bicycle (like a cogwheel) to the personal effects or equipment needed for a specific activity (such as camping gear or fishing tackle). Understanding these various contexts is key to deciphering the correct answer.
Beyond physical objects, "gear" can also be used informally to describe clothing, especially for a particular activity (e.g., "running gear"). In some contexts, it might even hint at an informal term for drugs or personal belongings. Crossword setters often play on these multiple meanings, sometimes with a humorous or misleading intent, requiring solvers to consider the length and other intersecting words to pinpoint the exact fit.
Whether the clue points to a single part of a machine or a comprehensive collection of tools, the essence of "gear" in crosswords usually revolves around functionality and purpose. Familiarity with common synonyms for equipment, apparatus, and mechanical parts will significantly aid in solving clues related to "gear."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always begin by noting the number of letters in the answer slot. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for a clue like "gear," which has multiple meanings across different lengths.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use any letters already filled in from intersecting clues. These are your strongest hints for confirming or ruling out potential answers.
- Consider the Puzzle's Theme: Some crosswords have a theme. If other clues lean towards mechanics, sports, or clothing, it might give you a stronger hint as to which meaning of "gear" the setter intends.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Crossword setters love wordplay. If a common synonym doesn't fit, consider more obscure or informal meanings of "gear."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of "gear" in crosswords?
In crosswords, "gear" commonly refers to mechanical components (like cogs or wheels), personal equipment (like a kit or outfit), or general apparatus used for a specific activity (like fishing tackle or hiking equipment).
How do I identify the correct "gear" answer among many possibilities?
To identify the correct answer, consider the letter count first. Then, look for surrounding letters in the crossword grid. Finally, think about the specific context of the puzzle – is it hinting at machinery, clothing, or general tools? The clue might have subtle hints if it's not a straightforward synonym.
Are there different types of "gear" clues in crosswords?
Yes, "gear" can appear in various forms. It could be a simple synonym clue (e.g., "Equipment"), a more specific one (e.g., "Bike part" for COG), or part of a phrase (e.g., "Get into high gear"). Paying attention to the exact wording of the clue is crucial.