pachyderm crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on the "pachyderm" clue? You've come to the right place! We've compiled all the most common and likely solutions for this clue, along with explanations, to help you quickly complete your crossword puzzle.
Solutions for "pachyderm crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
RHINO: Short for rhinoceros, a large, thick-skinned mammal with one or two horns on its snout.
HIPPO: Short for hippopotamus, a large, thick-skinned, semi-aquatic mammal native to sub-Saharan Africa.
7 Letters
MAMMOTH: An extinct large elephant-like mammal of the Pliocene and Pleistocene epochs, distinguished by its shaggy hair and long, curved tusks.
8 Letters
ELEPHANT: A large, thick-skinned mammal, characteristic of the order Proboscidea, known for its trunk and tusks.
More About "pachyderm crossword clue"
The term "pachyderm" originates from Greek words meaning "thick skin" (pachys meaning thick, and derma meaning skin). Historically, it was used in a broader zoological classification for large, thick-skinned mammals, regardless of their precise evolutionary relationships.
In modern biology, the group "Pachydermata" is no longer considered a valid taxonomic order. However, in common language and especially in crosswords, the term persists and almost exclusively refers to elephants, rhinoceroses, and hippopotamuses. These animals share the characteristic of having exceptionally thick skin, which protects them in their diverse habitats.
When "pachyderm" appears in a crossword clue, it's a strong hint to look for one of these well-known large, thick-skinned creatures. The specific answer will then depend on the number of letters provided in the puzzle grid and any crossing letters you might have already filled in.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Common Synonyms: For clues like "pachyderm," always think of the most common examples first (e.g., ELEPHANT, RHINO, HIPPO) before diving into more obscure possibilities.
- Check Letter Count First: Before guessing, always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options significantly.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: The most powerful tool in crossword solving is using letters from intersecting words. If you have an 'E' at the third position, it can eliminate many potential answers.
- Look for Plurals or Abbreviations: Sometimes clues might hint at a plural form (e.g., "pachyderms") or an abbreviation (e.g., "rhino" for "rhinoceros"). Pay attention to subtle clues in the wording.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "pachyderm" mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "pachyderm" refers to a group of large, thick-skinned mammals, most commonly elephants, rhinoceroses, and hippopotamuses. The clue often requires identifying one of these specific animals.
Are there different animals referred to as pachyderms?
Yes, while the term 'pachyderm' literally means 'thick-skinned' and was once a broader taxonomic group, in modern crosswords and common usage, it almost exclusively points to elephants, rhinoceroses, and hippopotamuses due to their distinctive thick hides.
How can I identify a pachyderm clue's answer quickly?
When you see 'pachyderm' in a clue, immediately consider ELEPHANT, RHINO, and HIPPO. Then, check the required letter count for the answer slot. If none fit, think about less common or historical pachyderms like MAMMOTH, or look for specific context in the clue that might narrow it down.