long slender thread or filament crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find the most comprehensive answers for the clue "long slender thread or filament crossword clue," along with explanations to help you understand why these solutions fit. Get quick and accurate help for your puzzle!
Solutions for "long slender thread or filament crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
FIBER: A natural or synthetic substance that is a long, thin, flexible strand. Commonly used in textiles and biology.
6 Letters
STRAND: A single thin length of something, such as a thread, hair, or wire, often part of a larger whole.
8 Letters
FILAMENT: A very fine, thread-like structure or fiber, common in biology (e.g., in plants or cells) or in light bulbs. Directly matches the clue's wording.
More About "long slender thread or filament crossword clue"
The clue "long slender thread or filament" often appears in crosswords, drawing on various fields from biology to textiles. While simple on the surface, the specific answer can depend heavily on the context provided by other clues in the puzzle. Words like FIBER, STRAND, and FILAMENT are common solutions because they universally describe fine, elongated structures.
Understanding these terms deeply can give you an edge in future puzzles. A 'fiber' is the fundamental unit of textiles, but also refers to dietary components or nerve structures. A 'strand' emphasizes individuality within a group, like a strand of hair from a braid. 'Filament' specifically denotes a very fine thread, often with a biological or scientific connotation, such as the filament of a lightbulb or a plant stamen.
Crossword constructors love these types of clues because they can have multiple plausible answers depending on subtle nuances or letter counts. Always cross-reference with other completed words to confirm the correct solution for your specific puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by checking the number of letters required. This is the single most important constraint in crossword solving and immediately narrows down possibilities for clues like "long slender thread or filament."
- Consider Synonyms & Context: Think about all possible synonyms for each word in the clue. For "thread," also consider "yarn," "line," or "string." For "filament," think of its scientific or common uses. The context of the entire puzzle (e.g., if it's a science-themed puzzle) can provide vital clues.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. If you have an 'I' at the second position, for instance, that eliminates 'STRAND' but keeps 'FIBER' or 'FILAMENT' as possibilities, depending on length.
- Don't Be Afraid to Guess (and Erase): Sometimes, putting in a plausible answer and seeing if it helps solve intersecting clues is a valid strategy. If it doesn't fit, simply erase and try another.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'thread' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'thread' in crosswords include FIBER, STRAND, FILAMENT, YARN, and LINE, among others. The specific answer usually depends on the number of letters required and the context of the puzzle.
How do I identify the correct answer when multiple words fit a 'long slender thread' clue?
To pinpoint the correct answer, consider the number of letters required for the solution. Also, look at any intersecting letters from other solved clues. The overall theme of the crossword puzzle or specific phrasing can also offer subtle hints.
What is the origin of the word 'filament'?
The word 'filament' originates from the Latin word 'filum', which means 'thread'. This etymology directly reflects its meaning as a slender, thread-like structure.