pointed teeth crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling a puzzle and landed on "pointed teeth crossword clue," you're in the right place. We've compiled all the possible solutions, along with explanations, to help you complete your crossword with ease.
Solutions for "pointed teeth crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
FANGS: The sharp, pointed teeth typically found in carnivorous animals or humans (canines), often associated with biting or tearing.
6 Letters
CANINE: One of the four pointed teeth located at the corners of the mouth in humans and many animals, crucial for tearing food.
CUSPID: An anatomical term for a canine tooth, particularly emphasizing its single, pointed cusp, used for piercing.
More About "pointed teeth crossword clue"
The term "pointed teeth" frequently appears in crosswords, referring to specific types of teeth found in both humans and animals. In humans, these are most commonly the canine teeth, which are crucial for tearing food and are distinctively sharp compared to incisors (for biting) or molars (for grinding). Their prominence and specific function make them a common subject for anatomical and biological clues.
In the animal kingdom, "pointed teeth" often brings to mind the formidable fangs of predators like wolves, lions, or even venomous snakes. These teeth are specialized for piercing, gripping, and in some cases, delivering venom, highlighting their crucial role in survival and feeding. Crossword setters love these terms because they are precise, widely understood, and fit various letter counts.
Understanding the context of the clue is key. Is it asking for a human tooth type, or something more beastly? The surrounding letters in your grid will often guide you to the correct answer, whether it's a scientific term like CANINE or a more evocative one like FANGS.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms: For clues like "pointed teeth," think about both common terms (FANGS) and more scientific ones (CANINE, CUSPID). Crosswords often play on vocabulary breadth.
- Check letter count: Always verify the number of letters in the answer you're considering matches the required length in the grid. This is your primary filter.
- Look for plurals: If the clue implies more than one (e.g., "pointed teeth" vs. "a pointed tooth"), ensure your answer is pluralized accordingly (e.g., FANGS).
- Use crossing letters: The letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues are your best friends. They'll confirm or rule out potential answers quickly.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are pointed teeth a common crossword clue?
Pointed teeth are often clued due to their distinct appearance and function, leading to specific, well-known anatomical terms like 'canine,' 'fang,' or 'cuspid.' They are easily recognizable and have direct, concise answers suitable for crossword grids.
What's the difference between 'fangs' and 'canines'?
'Canine' is the broader anatomical term for the pointed tooth type found in many mammals, including humans. 'Fang' typically refers to an unusually long, sharp, pointed tooth, often associated with predatory animals (like snakes or vampires) and sometimes implies venom delivery or enhanced tearing ability, though human canines can also be colloquially called fangs if prominent.
Are there other common teeth-related crossword clues?
Yes, other common teeth-related clues include 'molars' (for grinding), 'incisors' (for biting/cutting), 'dentition' (the arrangement of teeth), 'tusk' (a long, pointed tooth, e.g., elephant), and 'bicuspid' (a type of premolar tooth). Context often helps narrow down the answer.