lockjaw crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "lockjaw" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions and explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "lockjaw crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GRIP: Sometimes used in a figurative sense to mean a tight hold or clench, related to the sensation of lockjaw.
6 Letters
CLENCH: Refers to the act of tightening or closing firmly, often used for jaws or fists, and relevant to lockjaw.
7 Letters
TETANUS: The most common medical term for lockjaw, a serious bacterial infection.
TRISMUS: A medical term for the reduced opening of the jaws, often a symptom of lockjaw/tetanus or other conditions.
More About "lockjaw crossword clue"
The term "lockjaw" in a crossword clue typically points towards a medical condition characterized by involuntary muscle spasms that cause the jaw to become rigid and difficult to open. The most direct and common answer for this clue is often TETANUS, which is a serious bacterial infection where lockjaw is a prominent symptom.
However, crosswords love to play with synonyms and related concepts. Another strong candidate is TRISMUS, which is the clinical term for the limited jaw movement itself, regardless of its cause. While closely associated with tetanus, trismus can also result from other conditions like wisdom tooth impaction or temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorders. Depending on the nuance of the clue and available letters, a more general word like CLENCH (describing the action of tightening the jaw) or even GRIP (implying a firm, unyielding hold) could be the intended answer.
Understanding these different facets of "lockjaw" can be key to solving not just this clue, but similar ones that refer to medical symptoms, actions, or conditions. Always consider the letter count and any crossing letters you have already filled in, as these are crucial in narrowing down the possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters your answer should have. For "lockjaw", this immediately helps you choose between TETANUS (7), TRISMUS (7), CLENCH (6), or GRIP (4).
- Utilize Crossing Letters: The letters from intersecting words are your best friends. Even one or two confirmed letters can often reveal the correct "lockjaw" answer when multiple options exist.
- Consider Nuance & Context: Think about whether the clue implies a disease (TETANUS), a medical symptom (TRISMUS), or a general action (CLENCH). Sometimes the specific newspaper or puzzle constructor has a preferred style for such clues.
- Don't Be Afraid to Come Back: If you're stuck, move on to other clues. Filling in more of the grid often provides the missing pieces needed to solve stubborn clues like "lockjaw."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary medical condition associated with 'lockjaw'?
The primary medical condition commonly known as 'lockjaw' is tetanus. It's a serious bacterial infection affecting the nervous system, leading to muscle spasms and rigidity, especially in the jaw and neck, making it difficult to open the mouth.
Why might a crossword clue like 'lockjaw' have multiple answers?
Crossword clues can have multiple answers due to synonyms, related concepts, or different levels of specificity. 'Lockjaw' can refer to the condition (TETANUS), the symptom (TRISMUS), or even the action (CLENCH), depending on the constructor's intent and the puzzle's theme or difficulty.
How can I verify which 'lockjaw' answer is correct for my puzzle?
To verify the correct answer, first, check the number of letters needed. Then, look at the intersecting letters from other solved clues; these will confirm or rule out possibilities. Sometimes, the overall theme of the puzzle or the specific phrasing of the clue provides additional hints.