hides crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on "hides crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Let's find that elusive word!
Solutions for "hides crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
MASKS: To cover or conceal from view; often used when something is obscured as if by a mask.
SKINS: Referring to animal hides, typically dried or processed; a common alternative meaning for "hides".
VEILS: To cover or conceal with a veil or something similar; often used for light or partial concealment.
6 Letters
COVERS: To place something over something else in order to protect or conceal it; a common synonym for hiding.
BURIES: To put or hide something underground; often implies a complete concealment or interment.
CACHES: To store away in a hidden or inaccessible place; often used for valuable items.
7 Letters
SHROUDS: To cover or envelop so as to conceal from view; often used in a mysterious or solemn context.
STASHES: To store something safely in a secret place; similar to caches but often implying a less formal or temporary hiding spot.
8 Letters
CONCEALS: To prevent something from being seen, known, or discovered; a direct synonym for 'hides'.
OBSCURES: To make something unclear, difficult to see, or difficult to understand; implies less direct hiding, often by making something indistinct.
More About "hides crossword clue"
"Hides" is a wonderfully versatile word in crosswords, often catching solvers off guard due to its multiple meanings. Primarily, it refers to the act of concealing or keeping something out of sight, leading to answers like CONCEALS, MASKS, or BURIES. However, a clever setter might also use "hides" to refer to animal skins, leading to answers like PELTS or SKINS, depending on the context and the number of letters required. This duality makes it a prime candidate for misdirection, a common tactic in crossword setting.
The key to tackling such polysemous clues is to remain flexible in your thinking. Don't just stick to the most obvious interpretation. If one meaning doesn't fit the letter count or the intersecting letters, consider other less common, but still valid, definitions. The challenge of "hides" lies in identifying which specific nuance the puzzle creator intended. Always cross-reference with surrounding clues to narrow down the possibilities and avoid getting trapped by a red herring.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always prioritize the number of letters required. This immediately eliminates many potential answers for clues like "hides" which have numerous synonyms.
- Look at Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from crossing clues. These are your most reliable guide for ambiguous words and can quickly confirm or rule out a potential answer.
- Consider Alternative Meanings: For common words like "hides," "locks," or "banks," remember that setters love to use their less common definitions. If "conceals" doesn't fit, think "animal skins" (SKINS) or "places to store" (CACHES).
- Think About Context: Is the puzzle a themed one? Is it a quick puzzle or a cryptic one? The style and context of the crossword can sometimes hint at the type of answer expected.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'hides' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'hides' typically refers to actions like concealing, covering, or keeping something secret. It can also refer to animal skins, so context is key! The setter will usually provide other clues or letter counts to guide you to the specific meaning they intend.
Why are there so many answers for 'hides'?
Words like 'hides' are highly polysemous, meaning they have multiple meanings and many synonyms. Crossword setters exploit this versatility, often using different nuances of the word (e.g., hiding an object vs. hiding one's feelings) to fit various answer lengths and puzzle themes.
How can I figure out the correct answer for a 'hides' clue?
To pinpoint the right answer for 'hides', always consider the letter count first. Then, look at intersecting letters from other solved clues. The overall theme or difficulty of the puzzle can also offer hints. Sometimes, 'hides' might imply a specific type of hiding, like 'buries' for something underground, or 'masks' for a disguise or concealment of identity.