hisses crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "hisses crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle and deepen your understanding.
Solutions for "hisses crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BOOS: A sound made to express disapproval or contempt, often with a sharp, drawn-out quality similar to a hiss.
5 Letters
SPITS: To expel saliva forcibly, which can often produce a short, sharp hissing sound.
SHUNS: To persistently avoid, ignore, or reject someone, often with an implied social "hiss" or cold shoulder.
6 Letters
SIBILS: An archaic or poetic term for a hissing sound; plural of "sibil."
9 Letters
SIBILATES: To make a hissing or whistling sound, commonly associated with snakes or escaping gas.
More About "hisses crossword clue"
The clue "hisses" in a crossword puzzle can be surprisingly versatile, leading to several potential answers depending on the context the constructor intends. Fundamentally, it refers to a sharp, sibilant sound. This sound can be literal, like steam escaping from a pipe or a snake's warning, or it can be a metaphorical expression, such as expressing disapproval or avoiding someone.
Understanding these different facets is key to solving such clues. Words like SIBILATES directly address the sound's nature, while SPITS describes an action that often accompanies the sound. Even BOOS, typically a vocal expression of dissent, can be delivered with a hissing quality. SHUNS offers a more abstract interpretation, where the "hiss" is an implied negative social reaction rather than an audible sound. Always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters to narrow down the possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Homophones: Many crossword clues play on words with similar meanings or sounds. For a clue like "hisses," think of all actions or sounds that could be described by or lead to a hiss.
- Check Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. Always try to match the answer to the exact length specified by the puzzle's grid.
- Look at Intersecting Words: The letters from crossing words are invaluable. They can confirm your guess or help you eliminate incorrect options, especially when multiple answers fit the initial clue.
- Think Metaphorically and Literally: Some clues require a literal interpretation, while others demand a more abstract or metaphorical understanding. "Hisses" can be both a sound and a reaction, so consider both angles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some crossword clues have multiple possible answers?
Crossword clues can have multiple answers due to synonyms, different interpretations of a word, or various contexts in which a word might fit. For example, 'hisses' can refer to a literal sound (like a snake or steam), an action (like spitting), or even a social response (like expressing disapproval or shunning someone).
How can I improve my vocabulary for solving crosswords?
Regular reading, using a thesaurus, practicing with diverse puzzles, and focusing on common crosswordese (words frequently used in puzzles) are excellent ways to expand your vocabulary for crosswords.
What does 'hisses' imply in a crossword puzzle context?
In crosswords, 'hisses' can imply a literal sound (like a snake or steam), an action (like spitting), or even a metaphorical reaction (like expressing disapproval or shunning someone). Pay attention to the clue's surrounding words and the puzzle's theme for the best fit.