merry crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "merry", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "merry crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
GAY: Historically and in some older contexts, 'gay' means lighthearted, cheerful, or merry. It's a classic crossword answer, though its primary meaning has shifted over time.
5 Letters
JOLLY: A common and direct synonym for merry, often used in festive contexts or to describe a cheerful demeanor. Think 'Jolly Roger' or 'Jolly Old Saint Nick'.
6 Letters
BLITHE: Implies a carefree and cheerful disposition, often used to describe someone lighthearted and merry, without much thought or concern. It suggests a happy-go-lucky attitude.
8 Letters
CHEERFUL: Directly means full of cheer and joy, a perfect and straightforward fit for 'merry' in almost any crossword puzzle. It conveys a sense of happiness and optimism.
More About "merry crossword clue"
The word "merry" in crosswords usually points towards a general state of happiness, joy, or festivity. Its most common interpretations revolve around synonyms that describe a cheerful person or a joyous occasion. While clues might seem simple, the challenge often lies in finding the exact synonym that fits the required letter count and crosses with other words in the puzzle.
Understanding the nuances of words related to 'merry' can significantly speed up your solve time. For example, 'jolly' often implies a hearty, robust happiness, while 'blithe' suggests a more light, carefree form of cheerfulness. 'Gay', in its older meaning, was synonymous with bright and lively, a characteristic still relevant in historical or literary crossword contexts.
Crossword setters love to play with these subtle differences, as well as with common phrases like "Merry Christmas" or "make merry." Being aware of these extended associations can sometimes lead you to a surprising, yet correct, answer that isn't a direct synonym but related by context.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Connotation: Does the clue imply a specific type of happiness (e.g., festive, carefree, boisterous)? This can narrow down your options from synonyms like JOLLY, BLITHE, or CHEERFUL.
- Check Letter Count First: Before brainstorming, always look at the number of boxes. This is your most powerful filter. For "merry", if you only have 3 letters, GAY becomes a strong candidate.
- Look for Cross-References: If you're stuck, try to solve intersecting clues. Even one correctly placed letter can unlock a difficult word like 'merry'.
- Think of Common Phrases: Sometimes the clue hints at a common phrase. "Merry" might lead to answers related to "Christmas" or "making merry" if the clue is indirect.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'merry' mean in crossword clues?
In crossword clues, 'merry' typically refers to a state of being cheerful, festive, joyful, or lighthearted. Common synonyms like 'jolly', 'gay' (in its older sense), 'cheerful', and 'blithe' are often used as answers. It can also imply a sense of celebration or festive mood.
How can I find more synonyms for 'merry' for future crosswords?
To find more synonyms for 'merry', consider using a thesaurus or an online dictionary. Think about the specific context of the clue – is it about a person's mood, a festive occasion, or a general feeling of happiness? Broader terms like 'happy', 'joyful', 'festive', 'gleeful', and 'sprightly' might also be relevant.
Are there common phrases or expressions where 'merry' appears in crosswords?
Yes, 'merry' often appears in phrases like 'Merry Christmas', 'make merry', or 'merry-go-round'. Clues might reference these expressions indirectly, leading to answers such as 'holiday', 'celebrate', or 'carousel', depending on the specific word length and cross-referenced letters.