hairy crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "hairy crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, sorted by length, to help you complete your puzzle. We aim to provide not just solutions, but also brief explanations to expand your crossword vocabulary.
Solutions for "hairy crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
FUZZY: Covered with a light, soft layer of fibers or hair.
6 Letters
SHAGGY: Having long, thick, and untidy hair.
7 Letters
HIRSUTE: Hairy, especially excessively so; a classic crossword synonym.
BRISTLY: Having or covered with short, stiff hairs, often prickly.
BEARDED: Having a beard; a direct form of being hairy.
More About "hairy crossword clue"
The term "hairy" is a common adjective that can refer to various forms of hairiness, from the fine fuzz on a peach to the dense coat of an animal. In crosswords, this clue often serves as a versatile prompt, allowing setters to use a wide range of synonyms depending on the required letter count and surrounding context. Words like FUZZY, SHAGGY, and HIRSUTE are popular choices, each with a slightly different nuance.
Understanding these subtle differences can greatly improve your crossword-solving skills. For instance, 'bristly' suggests stiff, coarse hair, while 'shaggy' implies long, unkempt hair. When faced with "hairy" as a clue, consider the full context of the puzzle, including any themed answers or the type of crossword (e.g., cryptic vs. standard) to pinpoint the best fit.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters in the answer slot. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and narrows your focus.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Fill in any letters from intersecting words. Even one or two letters can be crucial in identifying the correct "hairy" synonym.
- Consider Nuances: Think about the specific kind of 'hairy' the clue might be hinting at. Is it an animal? A person? A texture? This can guide you towards words like SHAGGY, BEARDED, or FUZZY.
- Common Crossword Synonyms: Memorize frequently used crossword terms. HIRSUTE is a prime example for 'hairy' and knowing it can be a quick win.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some crossword clues, like 'hairy', have so many possible answers?
Many common adjectives, such as 'hairy', have a rich vocabulary of synonyms with varying nuances and lengths. This makes them versatile for crossword setters who need to fit words into specific grid patterns. The precise answer often depends on the surrounding letters or the specific crossword's theme.
What's the difference between 'hirsute' and 'shaggy' when solving crosswords?
'Hirsute' typically refers to an abundance of body hair in humans, often implying an unkempt or excessive quantity. 'Shaggy' usually describes hair that is long, thick, and untidy, often used for animals or a particular hairstyle. Both mean 'hairy' but carry slightly different connotations that can sometimes be key in a nuanced clue.
How can I quickly find the right 'hairy' answer in a crossword?
Start by checking the number of letters required for the answer. Then, use any already-filled letters from intersecting words to narrow down the possibilities. Consider common crossword synonyms like HIRSUTE or SHAGGY first, and also think about the tone or specific context of the clue (e.g., 'Hairy fruit' might suggest FUZZY, while 'Hairy man' might suggest BEARDED or HIRSUTE).