open sores crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "open sores", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, to help you complete your crossword puzzle.
Solutions for "open sores crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
BOILS: A painful, pus-filled lump under the skin caused by infected hair follicles, which can rupture and become open sores.
6 Letters
ULCERS: An open lesion of the skin or mucous membrane, often with loss of surface tissue.
WOUNDS: Injuries to the body, especially those involving rupture of skin or other tissue, which can be open.
7 Letters
LESIONS: A region in an organ or tissue which has suffered damage through injury or disease, often referring to an open sore.
9 Letters
ABSCESSES: Localized collections of pus in tissues, organs, or confined spaces, which can rupture and become open sores.
More About "open sores crossword clue"
The clue "open sores" frequently appears in crosswords due to the variety of medical and common terms that can describe such a condition. Crossword setters often rely on synonyms or specific medical definitions to create challenging yet solvable clues. Understanding the nuances between terms like 'ulcers,' 'lesions,' and 'wounds' is key to correctly identifying the intended answer.
These types of clues test your vocabulary in the medical field. While 'sores' is a general term, 'open sores' narrows down the possibilities to conditions where the skin or tissue is broken, exposing underlying layers. Common conditions that fit this description are typically inflammatory or infectious in nature, leading to the answers provided above.
When encountering such clues, consider the context of the puzzle, any intersecting letters you might already have, and the specific letter count required. This strategic approach will significantly improve your chances of solving even the trickiest medical-themed clues.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: For medical clues like "open sores," think about the surrounding clues. Sometimes, a theme might run through the puzzle (e.g., all medical terms), which can guide your answers.
- Consider Plurals: Many answers, especially those ending in 'S' or 'ES' like 'ULCERS' or 'ABSCESSES', might be plural forms. Always check if the clue implies a singular or plural answer.
- Check Letter Count: The exact number of letters is your most crucial hint. Ensure your proposed answer perfectly fits the grid's length. Double-check your spelling!
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While 'wounds' might seem immediate, words like 'lesions' or 'ulcers' are more specific to "open sores" and often the intended answer in more complex puzzles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'lesions' mean in the context of open sores?
'Lesions' is a broad medical term referring to any area of damaged tissue or skin. In the context of "open sores," it specifically points to a break in the skin's surface, whether due to injury, infection, or disease. It's a versatile answer often used when 'ulcers' or 'wounds' don't fit the letter count.
Can 'ruptures' be an answer for 'open sores'?
While a rupture implies something breaking open, 'open sores' typically refers to the resulting wound or lesion rather than the act of breaking. 'Ruptures' is less common as a direct answer for 'open sores' compared to 'ulcers' or 'wounds', as it describes the event leading to the sore, not the sore itself.
Are crossword clues about bodily conditions always straightforward?
Not always. While some can be direct, crossword setters enjoy playing with synonyms, homonyms, and specific medical terminology to make clues more challenging. 'Open sores' is a good example where several related terms could fit, requiring you to consider context and letter count carefully.