poke crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "poke crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck and back to solving your puzzle.
Solutions for "poke crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
JAB: A quick, sharp thrust with something pointed or with a fist.
DIG: To prod or thrust, often implying a searching action or a sharp, pointed remark.
4 Letters
PROD: To push or jab, often with a pointed object to stimulate action.
GOAD: To prod or urge on, often metaphorically, like poking someone to action.
STAB: To thrust a pointed weapon into something, a more forceful type of poke.
5 Letters
NUDGE: A gentle push, typically with an elbow, to attract attention subtly.
TOUCH: To come into contact with, sometimes gently, which can be a light poke.
6 Letters
THRUST: To push or shove suddenly or with great force, a vigorous type of poke.
More About "poke crossword clue"
The clue "poke" is a popular one in crosswords due to its versatility and multiple meanings. While most commonly referring to a physical action – a quick push or jab with a finger or object – it can also extend to more figurative interpretations. This makes it a fascinating, yet sometimes tricky, clue for solvers to decode.
Physically, "poke" evokes images of a sharp, sometimes irritating, contact. This leads to answers like JAB, PROD, or STAB. However, it can also describe a lighter, more subtle interaction, such as a NUDGE to get someone's attention. Understanding the exact nuance the puzzle setter intends often comes down to the number of letters required and the context provided by intersecting words.
Beyond the literal, "poke" can imply urging someone on (GOAD), or even being inquisitive (poking around, leading to SNOOP or PRY). In some cases, it might even mean to tease or mock someone, opening possibilities like GIBE or TAUNT. Always consider the broader context of the puzzle – is it a playful, physical, or an aggressive clue?
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by checking the number of letters in the answer grid. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for clues like "poke" which can have many synonyms.
- Consider All Meanings: Words often have multiple definitions. For "poke," think physical actions (jab, prod), but also metaphorical uses (goad, tease, snoop). Don't get stuck on just one interpretation.
- Leverage Crossing Clues: The most powerful tool in crossword solving! If you have a few letters from intersecting words, these can quickly reveal the correct answer, especially when a clue like "poke" has several potential solutions.
- Think Common Crossword-ese: Some words are crossword darlings. "Poke" and its common synonyms (JAB, PROD, NUDGE) appear frequently. Familiarity with these common answers will speed up your solving time.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'poke' in crosswords?
Common crossword synonyms for 'poke' include JAB, PROD, GOAD, NUDGE, and STAB, depending on the specific nuance and letter count required by the puzzle. It's a versatile clue often used for physical actions.
How can I distinguish between 'poke' answers like 'jab' and 'prod'?
'Jab' often implies a quick, sharp, and sometimes sudden motion, while 'prod' can be a more sustained or repeated action, often with an instrument or finger. 'Prod' can also be metaphorical, meaning to incite or urge. The number of letters and surrounding intersecting clues are crucial for differentiation.
Is 'poke' ever used in a non-physical sense in crosswords?
Yes, 'poke' can refer to 'poking fun' (to tease or mock), or 'poking around' (to investigate or snoop). Therefore, answers like TEASE, GIBE, or SNOOP might also be valid for a 'poke' clue, depending on the puzzle's context. Always consider all possible meanings of the word.