organ with humour crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "organ with humour", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find the most accurate and common solutions, along with detailed explanations to help you understand the historical and linguistic context.
Solutions for "organ with humour crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
SPLEEN: Historically associated with black bile, one of the four humours, linking it to melancholy or a 'bad humour'.
More About "organ with humour crossword clue"
The clue "organ with humour" is a fascinating example of how crosswords often draw upon historical and sometimes archaic meanings of words. In this case, "humour" doesn't refer to comedy or jokes, but rather to the ancient medical theory of the four humours.
According to this theory, prevalent from antiquity through the Middle Ages, the human body contained four primary fluids: blood, phlegm, yellow bile (or choler), and black bile (or melancholy). Each humour was associated with specific organs, temperaments, and even seasons. An imbalance in these humours was believed to cause various physical and mental ailments, as well as influencing one's personality.
The spleen's connection to black bile made it the organ traditionally associated with melancholy, sadness, and bad temper, hence the terms "splenetic" or "ill-humored." This historical context is key to understanding why "SPLEEN" is the correct and often singular answer for this particular crossword clue, highlighting the rich cultural tapestry woven into crossword puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for Historical Context: Many crossword clues, especially those involving older terms or seemingly unusual phrasing, rely on historical or archaic meanings. Be prepared to think beyond modern definitions.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Words like "humour" can have vastly different meanings. Always consider alternative interpretations, especially when the literal meaning doesn't seem to fit.
- Pay Attention to Wordplay: Crosswords often use puns, double meanings, and wordplay. While "organ with humour" is more about historical definition, being aware of wordplay can unlock many clues.
- Use a Crossword Dictionary: For particularly tricky clues involving specific knowledge areas (like anatomy, history, or literature), a specialized crossword dictionary or online solver can be an invaluable tool.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'humour' mean in the context of an organ crossword clue?
In the context of this crossword clue, 'humour' refers to the ancient Greek and Roman medical theory of the four humours (blood, phlegm, yellow bile, and black bile). These bodily fluids were believed to control human health, emotions, and temperament. An imbalance of these humours was thought to cause illness or personality traits.
Why is the SPLEEN associated with 'humour' historically?
The spleen was historically believed to be the organ responsible for producing and storing black bile, one of the four humours. An excess of black bile was thought to cause melancholy or a 'splenetic' disposition, which is a state of ill-humor or irritability. This historical association is why the spleen often appears in crosswords related to 'humour' or temperament.
Are there other organs linked to ancient humour theories?
Yes, other organs were associated with different humours. The heart was linked to blood (sanguine temperament), the brain/lungs to phlegm (phlegmatic), and the liver/gallbladder to yellow bile (choleric). However, the spleen's connection to 'black bile' and 'melancholy' makes it a prime candidate for crossword clues involving 'humour' or disposition.