plume crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "plume crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution.
Solutions for "plume crossword clue" by Letter Count
8 Letters
AIGRETTE: A decorative tuft of feathers, especially from an egret, often used as an ornament.
7 Letters
FEATHER: A soft, light, branched structure forming the outer covering of birds.
PANACHE: A confident and stylish manner, often symbolized by a plume or a showy display.
5 Letters
CREST: A tuft of feathers or other growth on the head of a bird or animal.
QUILL: A large, stiff feather from a bird, or its hollow shaft, often used as a pen.
SHAFT: The main stiff stem of a feather or plume.
More About "plume crossword clue"
The word "plume" in crosswords usually refers to a feather, particularly a large, showy one, or a cluster of feathers used for ornamentation. This could be on a bird's head, part of a hat, or a decorative accessory. The clue often tries to guide you towards specific types or contexts of plumes, such as those used for writing (quill) or those associated with elegance (panache).
Beyond its literal meaning, "plume" can also metaphorically describe something that resembles a feather in shape or movement, like a plume of smoke or a plume of water from a geyser. While less common in typical crosswords, experienced solvers keep this broader definition in mind for trickier puzzles.
Understanding the various interpretations of "plume" and considering its length can help you quickly identify the correct answer, whether it's a direct synonym like FEATHER or a more nuanced term like AIGRETTE or PANACHE.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by checking the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options from our list.
- Look for Context: Read the clue carefully for any additional words that might hint at a specific type of plume (e.g., "bird's plume," "hat plume," "writer's plume").
- Check Intersecting Words: Use letters from already-solved intersecting words to confirm or eliminate potential answers. This is often the most reliable way to verify your solution.
- Consider Synonyms and Homographs: While "plume" might seem straightforward, be prepared for synonyms or words that have multiple meanings, as seen with PANACHE or SHAFT.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'plume' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'plume' in crosswords include FEATHER, CREST, QUILL, and AIGRETTE, depending on the number of letters and specific context. PANACHE can also be an answer if the clue refers to a stylish display.
How can I distinguish between similar answers for 'plume'?
The number of letters is key. Also, consider the specific nuance of the clue. Is it asking for a bird's covering (FEATHER), a decorative element (AIGRETTE), a headpiece (CREST), or a writing tool (QUILL)? Contextual clues from intersecting words are also vital.
Is 'plume' always related to birds?
While 'plume' most commonly refers to a bird's feather or a decorative feather arrangement, it can also metaphorically describe a long, soft feather-like shape, or a column of smoke, dust, or water, as in a 'smoke plume.' Crossword clues usually specify if it's the bird-related meaning, but it's good to be aware of other possibilities.