moneylender crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the "moneylender crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "moneylender crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
USURER: A person who lends money, especially at an exorbitant or illegal rate of interest.
7 Letters
SHYLOCK: The infamous Jewish moneylender from Shakespeare's play 'The Merchant of Venice', known for demanding a 'pound of flesh'.
9 Letters
LOANSHARK: A person who lends money at illegally high rates of interest, often using threats or violence to collect repayment.
More About "moneylender crossword clue"
The term "moneylender" has a rich history, evolving from ancient practices of lending to modern financial institutions, though often carrying negative connotations due to associations with usury and exploitation. In literature, characters like Shylock have become archetypes for the ruthless or tragic figures involved in this trade. Crossword clues for "moneylender" frequently draw upon these historical and literary references, testing solvers' knowledge of both vocabulary and cultural context.
Understanding the nuances of the word can help you beyond just the crossword. From the Latin 'mutuum' (loan) to the perception of lending as a necessary but often disreputable profession, the concept of a moneylender is deeply embedded in societal and economic structures. Crossword setters love these types of clues because they can have multiple correct answers depending on the specific angle or letter count required, making them challenging yet rewarding to solve.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider historical context: Many "moneylender" clues refer to historical figures or practices. Think about ancient economies, medieval laws against usury, or famous literary works.
- Look for literary references: As seen with "Shylock," literature is a common source for crossword answers. If the clue feels literary, think of famous characters or plays.
- Check surrounding letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to narrow down the possibilities. For instance, if you have _H_L_C_ for a 7-letter answer, "SHYLOCK" quickly becomes apparent.
- Vary your thinking: Sometimes the answer isn't a direct synonym but a related term, like a person who practices "usury" being a "usurer."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a moneylender in a crossword context?
In crosswords, a "moneylender" clue often points to words describing individuals or entities that lend money, especially those associated with specific historical contexts, literary figures, or practices like usury.
Are there common themes for "moneylender" clues?
Yes, common themes include historical terms like "usurer," literary characters such as "Shylock" from Shakespeare, or modern, illicit terms like "loanshark." The specific context of the puzzle (e.g., historical, literary, legal) can help narrow down the answer.
Why is "Shylock" a frequent answer for moneylender clues?
Shylock is arguably the most famous fictional moneylender from English literature, appearing in Shakespeare's 'The Merchant of Venice'. His prominence in literature makes him a common and recognizable answer for crossword constructors.