hardens crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "hardens crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track with your puzzle.
Solutions for "hardens crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SETS: To become firm or solid, as in concrete setting.
5 Letters
FIRMS: To become more solid, stable, or rigid.
JELLS: To become set or solidify, especially like jelly.
CAKES: To form into a compact, hard mass, often referring to dirt or snow.
8 Letters
CONGEALS: To solidify or coagulate, especially by cooling, often used for liquids like blood or fat.
8 Letters
STIFFENS: To make or become stiff or rigid, often referring to textiles or muscles.
10 Letters
SOLIDIFIES: To make or become solid or hard, the most general term for this process.
More About "hardens crossword clue"
"Hardens" is a versatile verb that frequently appears in crosswords due to its multiple meanings and synonyms. In its most common usage, it refers to a physical process where something becomes solid, firm, or less pliable. This can be seen in materials like cement or plastic that 'harden' after being exposed to air or heat.
Beyond the literal, "hardens" can also describe a metaphorical change, such as an attitude or resolve becoming more rigid and unyielding. For instance, one's heart might 'harden' after a difficult experience. Crossword setters often play on these different interpretations, so it's crucial to consider the context of the entire clue and the puzzle's theme when selecting an answer. The various letter counts associated with words like SETS, FIRMS, or SOLIDIFIES provide ample opportunity for setters to challenge solvers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Letters Carefully: Always start by counting the available spaces in the grid. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Consider Synonyms and Nuances: For a clue like "hardens," think about specific ways things harden (e.g., like jelly, like concrete). This can lead you to the exact synonym (JELLS vs. SETS).
- Check Intersecting Clues: The most powerful tool in crosswords is using crossing letters. Even one correct letter from an intersecting clue can unlock a tricky answer for "hardens."
- Think About Parts of Speech: If the clue is a verb like "hardens," the answer will also likely be a verb (e.g., SETS, FIRMS).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hardens' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'hardens' typically refers to something becoming firm, solid, rigid, or resistant. It can apply to physical states (like an object setting) or metaphorical ones (like an attitude becoming fixed or a market becoming more competitive). The specific nuance often depends on the surrounding clues.
Are there common synonyms for 'hardens' used as crossword answers?
Yes, common synonyms include SETS, FIRMS, JELLS, CAKES, STIFFENS, CONGEALS, and SOLIDIFIES. The key to solving is often matching the number of letters required by the grid, along with any intersecting letters.
How can I distinguish between multiple answers for 'hardens' with the same letter count?
If multiple words fit the length (e.g., FIRMS, JELLS, CAKES are all 5 letters), look at the crossing letters from other clues. Also, consider the specific nuance of the clue or the overall theme of the puzzle. For instance, if the puzzle has a cooking theme, 'JELLS' or 'CAKES' might be more appropriate.