pagan crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "pagan crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "pagan crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
DRUID: A member of the priestly class in ancient Celtic societies, often associated with pre-Christian paganism.
6 Letters
WICCAN: A modern pagan religion, typically characterized by nature worship and the practice of magic.
7 Letters
HEATHEN: A term commonly used to describe someone who does not follow one of the Abrahamic religions (Christianity, Judaism, Islam).
ANIMIST: Someone who believes that all objects, places, and creatures possess a distinct spiritual essence.
8 Letters
IDOLATER: A person who worships an idol or image as a god, often associated with polytheistic religions.
More About "pagan crossword clue"
"Pagan" is a rich and historically significant term that frequently appears in crosswords. Originating from the Latin "paganus," meaning "country dweller" or "rustic," it came to denote those who continued to worship polytheistic gods as Christianity spread through the Roman Empire. In crossword puzzles, clues for "pagan" often seek common synonyms like "HEATHEN" or "INFIDEL," or terms related to specific ancient belief systems like "DRUID" or "ANIMIST."
The term can also encompass a vast array of pre-Christian European religions and indigenous spiritual practices worldwide. Modern usage often includes Neopaganism, an umbrella term for various contemporary spiritual movements influenced by or derived from historical pagan beliefs. Understanding these different facets can help you decode the specific nuance a crossword setter intends with the clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms: For words like "pagan," always think of common synonyms or closely related terms that might fit different letter counts. "Heathen" is often the go-to.
- Context is Key: Pay close attention to any additional words in the clue. "Ancient pagan" might point to a specific historical group like "DRUID," while a clue about a belief system might hint at "ANIMISM."
- Check letter counts: Once you have a potential answer, always verify its length against the number of boxes in the puzzle. This is a crucial step to avoid common errors.
- Cross-reference: Use intersecting words to confirm your choices. If an answer fits perfectly horizontally but clashes vertically, re-evaluate.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'pagan' and 'heathen' in crosswords?
While often used interchangeably in crosswords, 'pagan' broadly refers to followers of polytheistic or pre-Christian nature-based religions. 'Heathen' specifically implies someone who is not a Christian, Jew, or Muslim, and can carry a more pejorative connotation. In puzzles, 'HEATHEN' is a very common answer for 'pagan'.
Are there common themes associated with 'pagan' clues?
Yes, clues related to 'pagan' often touch upon ancient religions, mythology (Greek, Roman, Norse), nature worship, pre-Christian beliefs, and sometimes modern forms like Wicca or Neopaganism. Look for words like deity, ritual, nature, ancient, or specific figures like druids.
How do I approach clues about religious terms in crosswords?
When tackling religious terms, consider both specific denominations and broader classifications. Think about historical contexts, figures, texts, and common synonyms or antonyms. Also, be aware of modern interpretations or specific sects if the clue points to them. Sometimes, the answer might be a general term like 'BELIEVER' or 'FAITH'.