narrow waterway crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "narrow waterway"? You've landed on the right page! We've compiled all possible solutions and explanations for this common crossword clue, helping you swiftly complete your puzzle. Explore answers by letter count and gain a deeper understanding of the terms.
Solutions for "narrow waterway crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
CANAL: An artificial waterway constructed for navigation, irrigation, or drainage, often connecting two larger bodies of water.
DITCH: A narrow channel dug in the ground, typically for drainage, irrigation, or to mark a boundary. Often smaller than a canal.
6 Letters
STRAIT: A narrow natural passage of water connecting two larger bodies of water, such as seas or oceans.
7 Letters
CHANNEL: A narrow stretch of sea or fresh water, wider than a strait, connecting two larger bodies of water; can also refer to a dredged path for navigation.
More About "narrow waterway crossword clue"
The clue "narrow waterway" is a classic in crosswords, often pointing to a variety of geographical features or man-made structures. Understanding the nuances between terms like canal, strait, ditch, and channel is key to selecting the correct answer. While a canal is always artificial and serves a specific purpose (like the Panama Canal or Erie Canal), a strait is a natural formation, often of significant geopolitical importance, such as the Strait of Gibraltar. A ditch is generally smaller and primarily for drainage or irrigation on a local scale.
The term channel can be a bit more ambiguous, referring to a natural passage that is wider than a strait, or even a dredged path in a river or harbor to allow for navigation. Context within the crossword puzzle, such as accompanying letters or other clues, is crucial for distinguishing between these similar terms. Our comprehensive list provides the most likely candidates to help you complete your puzzle efficiently.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options from our list of solutions.
- Look for Synonyms and Context: While "narrow waterway" is broad, think if the puzzle implies natural vs. artificial (e.g., "man-made narrow waterway" points strongly to CANAL).
- Use Crossing Letters: If you have a few letters from intersecting words, these are your most powerful tool. Plug them into our listed answers to see which one fits perfectly.
- Think Geographical: Some puzzles might lean towards specific, famous narrow waterways. While we provide general terms, remember iconic examples like the English Channel or Bering Strait for broader context clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary difference between a canal and a strait?
A canal is an artificial, man-made waterway constructed for specific purposes like transportation or irrigation. In contrast, a strait is a natural, narrow body of water that connects two larger seas, lakes, or oceans.
How do I determine the correct length for a crossword answer?
The number of letters required for an answer is typically indicated by the grid's design or by numbers in the clue list (e.g., 'narrow waterway (5)'). Always count the available squares in the grid to confirm the exact length needed.
Are 'channel' and 'strait' interchangeable in crosswords?
While both describe narrow waterways, 'strait' typically implies a more constricted natural passage. 'Channel' can refer to a wider natural passage or even a man-made dredged path. The specific puzzle's context or accompanying letters will usually guide you to the correct answer.