manioc crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "manioc", you've come to the right place. We provide comprehensive solutions and explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately, no matter the word length you're looking for.
Solutions for "manioc crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
YUCA: A common alternative name for manioc, especially in Spanish-speaking regions. It's a starchy root vegetable.
6 Letters
STARCH: Manioc is primarily harvested for its starchy roots, which are a significant source of carbohydrates. This answer refers to the main product of manioc.
7 Letters
CASSAVA: Perhaps the most common synonym for manioc, cassava is a tropical plant cultivated for its edible starchy root.
TAPIOCA: This refers to a starch extracted from the manioc root, widely used as a thickener or in desserts.
More About "manioc crossword clue"
Manioc, known scientifically as Manihot esculenta, is a crucial staple food for millions of people worldwide, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. Its starchy root is highly versatile and can be processed into various products, including flour, tapioca, and bioethanol. The plant is drought-tolerant and can grow in poor soils, making it an invaluable crop in many agricultural systems.
In crosswords, "manioc" often appears as a clue because of its multiple common names and derived products. This allows setters to use different word lengths and synonyms, challenging solvers to recall its various associations. Understanding these connections can significantly improve your ability to tackle puzzles involving botanical or food-related terms.
The root must be properly prepared before consumption to remove cyanide compounds, which are naturally present. However, once processed, it's a safe and nutritious source of energy, widely used in cuisines ranging from fufu in West Africa to farofa in Brazil.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms: For clues like "manioc," always think of alternative names (e.g., cassava, yuca) and related products (e.g., tapioca, starch).
- Check letter count: Use the number of letters in the answer grid as your primary filter. This narrows down possibilities significantly.
- Cross-reference with intersecting words: If you have a few letters from crossing words, use them to confirm or narrow down your "manioc" answer. Sometimes a single letter can clarify between two potential solutions.
- Think broadly: If direct synonyms don't fit, consider broader categories or uses of the item. For manioc, think "root," "starch," or "tropical plant."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is manioc?
Manioc, also known as cassava or yuca, is a woody shrub native to South America. It is extensively cultivated as an annual crop in tropical and subtropical regions for its edible starchy tuberous root, which is a major source of carbohydrates.
Why is 'manioc' a common crossword clue?
Manioc is a common crossword clue due to its multiple alternative names (cassava, yuca) and derived products (tapioca, starch), offering setters various word lengths and synonyms to use. Its botanical nature also allows for related clues like 'starchy root' or 'tropical plant'.
Are cassava and yuca the same as manioc?
Yes, cassava and yuca are essentially alternative names for manioc. 'Manioc' is the most common name in some regions, while 'cassava' is widely used, particularly in Africa and Asia. 'Yuca' is the predominant term in Latin American Spanish-speaking countries.