obsolete crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "obsolete crossword clue" in your puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your crossword with ease.
Solutions for "obsolete crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
OLD: A simple and direct synonym for obsolete, meaning no longer current or in use.
5 Letters
DATED: Describes something that is no longer current or fashionable, indicating an older state.
PASSE: A French word commonly adopted into English to mean no longer fashionable or current; out of date.
7 Letters
ARCHAIC: Refers to something very old or primitive, often applied to words, customs, or forms that are no longer in common use.
8 Letters
OUTMODED: Meaning no longer in use or fashion; superseded or replaced by something newer.
More About "obsolete crossword clue"
The term "obsolete crossword clue" itself highlights an interesting aspect of language and puzzle creation: words and phrases evolve. What was once common parlance or a widely recognized reference can, over time, become obscure or entirely fall out of use. This natural linguistic progression means that crosswords, which often draw on a rich vocabulary, must also adapt. An "obsolete" clue might refer to a word that is archaic, a historical figure no longer prominent, or a technology that has been superseded.
Understanding the context behind such a clue is key to solving it. Publishers and constructors often strive to keep puzzles fresh and relevant, but older or more challenging crosswords might deliberately include archaic terms to test a solver's vocabulary depth. Recognizing that a clue might be hinting at something from a bygone era can quickly narrow down your options and lead you to the correct, albeit old-fashioned, answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: An "obsolete" clue might be looking for a synonym for 'old' or an antonym for 'new'. Always think broadly about word associations.
- Check for indicators of age: Look for words like 'old-fashioned', 'archaic', 'erstwhile', 'once', or 'formerly' within the clue itself. These are strong hints that the answer is likely an obsolete term.
- Think about common crossword patterns: Some older, less common words (like "EPEE" or "OREO" - though the latter is still very current as a product, it's a crossword classic) persist in crosswords due to their useful letter combinations. Familiarize yourself with these "crosswordese" terms.
- Use a comprehensive dictionary: If you suspect a word is old or uncommon, a good dictionary or thesaurus that includes historical usage can be invaluable.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some crossword clues become obsolete?
Crossword clues can become obsolete due to changes in language, cultural shifts, or advancements in technology. Words or phrases that were once common might fall out of use, or new terms might emerge, making older references less relevant. Puzzles reflect the era they are created in, so clues from decades past might refer to things or concepts that no longer exist or are widely known.
How can I identify an obsolete word in a crossword?
Identifying an obsolete word often involves considering the context of the clue. Look for indicators like 'old English,' 'archaic term,' 'classic,' or if the clue itself feels dated. Sometimes, the length of the word combined with a cryptic clue can point to an older, less common vocabulary word. Consulting a comprehensive dictionary that includes etymology can also be very helpful.
Are classic crossword terms always obsolete?
Not necessarily. While some classic crossword terms might refer to older concepts (e.g., 'EPEE' for a sword), they remain 'classic' because they are frequently used in puzzles due to their useful letter patterns or common associations. An obsolete term would be one that is rarely encountered outside of historical texts or specific contexts, and might be deliberately clued as 'archaic' or 'old-fashioned' to guide the solver.