nadir crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword puzzles! On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "nadir crossword clue," presented by letter count for quick and easy reference.
Solutions for "nadir crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BASE: The lowest or foundational part of something, often used figuratively to mean a low point or foundation.
5 Letters
DEPTH: Refers to the lowest point or the profoundness of something, aligning with the concept of a nadir.
6 Letters
LOWEST: Directly meaning the smallest in amount, extent, or degree; at the bottom, which is a common interpretation of nadir.
BOTTOM: The lowest part, point, or surface of something, a very common synonym for nadir in various contexts.
7 Letters
PERIGEE: In astronomy, this is the point in the orbit of the moon or a satellite at which it is nearest to the Earth, serving as an astronomical equivalent to nadir for orbital bodies.
More About "nadir crossword clue"
The word "nadir" originates from Arabic and literally means "opposite" or "corresponding to". In astronomy, it refers to the point on the celestial sphere directly below a specific location on the Earth, diametrically opposite the zenith. Beyond its astronomical definition, "nadir" is widely used to describe the lowest, worst, or most unfortunate point in a situation, process, or a person's life.
In crosswords, "nadir" is a versatile clue because it can elicit a variety of synonyms depending on the required letter count and the specific nuance the clue setter intends. Common answers often revolve around concepts of low points, foundations, or extreme conditions. Understanding its dual nature – as an astronomical term and a figurative expression for a low point – is key to cracking related clues.
Solving clues like "nadir" often requires you to think broadly about synonyms and related concepts. Sometimes, the clue might hint at the astronomical context, while at other times it might refer to a personal or economic low point. Always consider the context of the puzzle and any intersecting letters to narrow down the possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider All Meanings: For words like "nadir" that have both literal (astronomical) and figurative meanings, ponder which context the clue might be hinting at.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: If "nadir" is the clue, brainstorm words like "bottom," "lowest," "depth." If it's an answer, think about what its opposite ("zenith") might suggest.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. They are your best guide to confirming or ruling out potential answers.
- Check Word Length: The number of letters required is a crucial piece of information. Ensure your proposed answer perfectly fits the count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the meaning of 'nadir'?
The word 'nadir' refers to the lowest point, either literally or figuratively. It can signify the lowest point in a person's fortunes, the lowest point in a process, or the point directly opposite the zenith in astronomy (the lowest point of the celestial sphere relative to an observer).
What is the opposite of 'nadir'?
The direct opposite of 'nadir' is 'zenith'. While nadir represents the lowest point, zenith represents the highest point or the point directly overhead, often used to denote the peak or climax.
Why is 'nadir' a common crossword clue?
'Nadir' is a popular crossword clue due to its clear antonym ('zenith') and a rich set of synonyms (bottom, lowest, depth, low point, rock bottom, etc.) that allow for various answer lengths. Its dual meaning (literal and figurative/astronomical) also provides fertile ground for setters to create challenging yet fair clues.