ornamental tuft crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Find quick help and comprehensive explanations for the crossword clue 'ornamental tuft crossword'. We provide all possible answers, organized by length, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "ornamental tuft crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PLUME: A long, soft feather or arrangement of feathers, often ornamental, used for display or worn on a headdress.
CREST: A decorative plume or tuft, especially on a bird's head or a helmet, often symbolizing status or identity.
7 Letters
PANACHE: A decorative plume on a helmet, or more broadly, a distinctive flair or style, often associated with confidence.
8 Letters
AIGRETTE: A tuft of white plumes, specifically those of the egret, often used as an elegant ornamental headdress.
More About "ornamental tuft crossword"
The term "ornamental tuft" in crosswords usually points to a decorative element, often feathery or hair-like, found in various contexts. Historically, these have adorned helmets, hats, and uniforms, signifying rank, status, or simply adding aesthetic appeal. In the animal kingdom, many birds display natural ornamental tufts or crests, like the peacock's fan or the cockatoo's crest, which play roles in mating rituals and species recognition.
When you encounter this clue, the constructor is likely guiding you towards words related to these visual embellishments. Beyond the literal meaning, some answers can carry metaphorical weight, such as "panache," which can refer to a decorative plume but also denotes a dashing, confident style. Understanding these nuances is key to solving the puzzle.
Crossword setters love to use terms like "ornamental tuft" because they have multiple synonyms of varying lengths, allowing for flexibility within the puzzle grid. Always consider the number of letters and any intersecting words to determine the precise answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your primary guide. If "ornamental tuft" is a 5-letter answer, you know to look for words like PLUME or CREST.
- Consider Synonyms and Context: Think broadly about what constitutes an "ornamental tuft." Could it be a decorative part of an animal, clothing, or even a symbolic representation?
- Look for Adjectives: Sometimes, the clue includes an adjective that narrows it down, e.g., "white ornamental tuft" might lead you directly to AIGRETTE.
- Check Intersecting Clues: The letters revealed by intersecting words are often the most crucial hint. Fill in what you know first.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'ornamental tuft' mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'ornamental tuft' typically refers to a decorative bunch of feathers, hair, or similar material, often associated with birds, hats, or military uniforms. Common answers include words like PLUME, CREST, or AIGRETTE, depending on the specific context and letter count required by the puzzle.
Are there common synonyms for 'ornamental tuft'?
Yes, common synonyms or closely related terms that might appear as crossword answers include 'plume,' 'crest,' 'topknot,' 'tuft' (though less common if 'tuft' is in the clue), 'aigrette,' and 'panache' (when referring to a decorative plume). The specific answer will depend on the puzzle's letter count and nuances.
How do I narrow down answers for clues like this?
To narrow down answers for 'ornamental tuft,' first consider the number of letters. Then, think about any additional context provided by the crossword puzzle itself, such as a theme or intersecting letters. If it's a themed puzzle, the 'ornamental tuft' might relate to a specific type of animal or historical period. Also, consider if the clue has a broader or more specific meaning intended by the constructor.