ordinary sailor crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "ordinary sailor crossword clue" by Letter Count
2 Letters
AB: A widely used abbreviation for "Able Bodied Seaman," referring to a qualified member of a ship's crew, distinct from an officer.
4 Letters
TARS: An informal term for a sailor, often used historically, suggesting a common or experienced seaman.
6 Letters
SEAMAN: A general term for a person who works on a ship, fitting the description of an "ordinary sailor."
More About "ordinary sailor crossword clue"
The term "ordinary sailor" in crossword clues often points to common, non-commissioned naval or merchant marine personnel. These clues leverage both general terms and specific slang or abbreviations that are widely understood in nautical contexts. This type of clue is popular in crosswords because it allows setters to use concise, historical, or common terms that fit various grid patterns.
Understanding the nuances of "ordinary" is key here. It distinguishes the answer from higher ranks like "captain" or "admiral," focusing instead on the working crew. Historically, sailors were often referred to by informal terms like "tar," a nod to the tarred canvas clothing they wore, which speaks to their everyday, working-class nature aboard a vessel. These common terms have found a permanent home in crossword puzzles due to their brevity and familiarity to a broad audience.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Slang: Many clues, especially those relating to common professions or groups like "sailor," often use informal, archaic, or slang terms. Always think beyond the most literal definition.
- Check Letter Count First: Use the exact number of boxes provided in your puzzle to immediately narrow down the list of potential answers. This is often the quickest way to solve a tricky clue.
- Look for Abbreviations and Acronyms: Crossword setters frequently use abbreviations for common terms. If a clue feels too short or seems to hint at a specific title, consider a common abbreviation (e.g., AB for Able Bodied).
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: As you fill in letters from other clues, use them to confirm or discard potential answers for your current clue. Even one correct letter can make a difference.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are "TARS" and "AB" common crossword answers for sailors?
Both 'TARS' (an old slang term) and 'AB' (short for Able Bodied Seaman) are short, frequently used, and easily fit into crossword grids, making them popular choices for setters when a general 'sailor' clue appears.
How does "ordinary" influence the answer to a sailor clue?
The term "ordinary" often implies a non-commissioned or regular crew member, helping to distinguish from officers or specialized roles, guiding solvers towards terms like "AB," "TARS," or "SEAMAN" rather than "Captain" or "Navigator."
Are there other common crossword terms for specific types of sailors?
Yes, terms like "SALT" (old sailor), "MATE" (first mate), "NAVYMAN" (general term for naval personnel), or even "DECKHAND" might appear depending on the specific nuance of the clue.