old magistrate crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the 'old magistrate crossword clue', you've landed on the perfect page. Below you'll find comprehensive solutions, explanations, and helpful context to complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "old magistrate crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
EPHOR: An ancient Spartan magistrate, typically one of five elected annually to supervise the kings and the general administration of the state.
REEVE: A medieval English official, usually a local administrator or a chief magistrate of a town or district.
8 Letters
ALDERMAN: A member of a municipal legislative body, historically often holding significant administrative or judicial powers, especially in older English towns.
More About "old magistrate crossword clue"
The clue "old magistrate" frequently appears in crosswords, drawing upon a rich history of legal and administrative roles from ancient civilizations and medieval Europe. These terms often represent a blend of judicial, executive, and even military responsibilities, depending on the specific historical context.
For instance, an EPHOR was a powerful figure in Sparta, tasked with overseeing the kings and public morality. A REEVE, on the other hand, was a more localized official in England, responsible for managing the land or presiding over a manorial court. ALDERMAN, while still existing in some forms today, carries a strong historical connotation of significant local authority.
Understanding these historical nuances is key to solving such clues. Crossword setters love to dip into history, so having a good grasp of terms related to ancient Rome, Greece, and medieval European governance can be immensely helpful.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Historical Periods: "Old" clues often point to specific historical eras. Think about terms from Ancient Rome, Greece, or medieval Europe that fit the letter count.
- Check for Specificity: Is the clue "old magistrate" or something more specific like "Spartan magistrate"? The more specific, the more narrowed down your answer options become.
- Look at Surrounding Clues: Sometimes, an intersecting word can give you the crucial letter or two needed to unlock a challenging historical term.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Regularly reading about history, even superficially, can expose you to terms like EPHOR, REEVE, or TRIBUNES, making future puzzles easier.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'old magistrate' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'old magistrate' typically refers to historical or ancient judicial or administrative officials. Examples include terms like EPHOR (Spartan), REEVE (medieval English), or ALDERMAN (historical municipal official).
How can I find answers to obscure historical clues like 'old magistrate'?
For obscure historical clues, consider the number of letters provided in the puzzle, think about common historical terms (especially Roman, Greek, or medieval English), and use online crossword solvers as a last resort. Contextual clues from surrounding words can also be helpful.
Are there different types of 'magistrates' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, crosswords often feature various types of magistrates, from ancient Roman (e.g., PRAETOR, AEDILE) and Greek (e.g., EPHOR, ARCHON) officials to historical British or local figures (e.g., REEVE, BAILIFF, ALDERMAN). The specific period or region hinted at by the clue is crucial.