make out crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "make out crossword clue", you've come to the right place. This page provides all the possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.

Solutions for "make out crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

KISS: To touch with the lips as a sign of love, sexual desire, or greeting. This refers to the romantic interpretation of 'make out'.

NECK: To kiss and caress passionately. An informal term, often used in a similar romantic context to 'make out'.

5 Letters

GRASP: To understand something, especially a complicated subject or problem. This aligns with the 'discern' meaning of 'make out'.

6 Letters

FATHOM: To understand a difficult problem or a mysterious person after much thought. Another answer related to comprehending or discerning.

7 Letters

DISCERN: To perceive or recognize something, often with difficulty or by careful observation. This meaning of 'make out' implies seeing or understanding clearly.

More About "make out crossword clue"

The phrase "make out" is a wonderfully versatile idiom, which is why it frequently appears in crosswords. Its dual primary meanings – to comprehend or discern, and to engage in passionate kissing – offer setters a rich ground for misdirection. Solvers must pay close attention to the number of letters and any surrounding thematic elements to determine which interpretation is required.

When "make out" hints at understanding, answers like DISCERN, GRASP, or FATHOM are common. These evoke the idea of clarifying something vague or intellectually wrestling with a concept until it becomes clear. On the other hand, if the puzzle is aiming for the romantic angle, shorter, more direct answers such as KISS or NECK are typical. The informal nature of the "kissing" meaning of "make out" often aligns with more casual or playful crossword themes.

Understanding these distinct facets is key to cracking the clue. Crossword setters love to play on such double meanings, making "make out" a classic example of how a simple phrase can have complex implications in the world of puzzles. Always consider both possibilities before settling on an answer, and let the letter count be your definitive guide.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'make out' mean in a crossword puzzle context?

In crosswords, 'make out' commonly refers to two main meanings: to discern or comprehend something (e.g., to make out the details of a drawing), or to kiss passionately (e.g., a couple making out). The context of the surrounding clues or the length of the answer will help determine the correct interpretation.

Are there common answer lengths for 'make out' meanings?

Yes, common answers for 'discern' type meanings might be longer (e.g., DISCERN, FATHOM, COMPREHEND), while answers for 'kiss' type meanings are often shorter (e.g., KISS, NECK). However, always check the exact letter count required by the puzzle.

How can I distinguish between the different meanings of 'make out' when solving?

Look at the number of letters. Short answers like KISS (4 letters) or NECK (4 letters) strongly suggest the romantic meaning. Longer answers like DISCERN (7 letters) or FATHOM (6 letters) point towards the comprehension meaning. Also, consider if the puzzle has a theme or other clues that might hint at a romantic or intellectual context.