prop crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "prop crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organised by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "prop crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
AID: Something that helps or supports, often in a general sense.
LEG: A supporting part of a piece of furniture or structure.
4 Letters
ITEM: An object used on stage during a performance (theatrical sense of "prop").
POLE: A long, slender piece of wood or metal, often used as a support.
5 Letters
BRACE: A device that holds something in place or strengthens it, providing support.
STRUT: A rod or bar forming part of a framework, designed to resist compression, providing support.
STAFF: A stick or pole, often used for support or as a walking aid.
STAKE: A strong wooden or metal post driven into the ground to support something.
7 Letters
SUPPORT: To hold up or keep from falling; to bear the weight of.
More About "prop crossword clue"
The word "prop" is a versatile term in the English language, leading to its frequent appearance in crosswords with varied meanings. Primarily, it refers to something that provides support or acts as a stay. This could be a physical object like a pole or a brace, used to hold something upright or in position. In this context, answers like STICK, POLE, or BRACE are common solutions, depending on the letter count and specific nuance of the clue.
Beyond physical support, "prop" also has a distinct meaning in theatre, referring to a "property" – any object used by an actor during a performance. This theatrical sense often leads to answers such as ITEM or OBJECT. Crossword setters love this dual meaning, using it to challenge solvers' understanding of context.
Understanding which interpretation the setter intends often comes down to the number of letters and any additional context provided in the clue. For instance, a clue mentioning "stage" or "actor" would strongly suggest the theatrical meaning, while "shoring up" or "holding up" would point to the support meaning. By considering both primary definitions, you significantly increase your chances of solving the "prop" clue quickly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Letter Count: The number of boxes available is your most crucial hint. It immediately narrows down the possibilities for a clue like "prop," which can have answers of varying lengths (e.g., AID vs. SUPPORT).
- Look for Context Clues: Pay attention to other words in the clue. If it's "theatre prop," you're looking for an ITEM. If it's "hold up," you might need a BRACE. Sometimes, the overall theme of the puzzle can also provide hints.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are definitive guides. If you have "I" as the second letter for a 4-letter answer to "prop," "ITEM" becomes a strong candidate.
- Consider Synonyms and Homonyms: Crossword setters often play with words that have multiple meanings or sound alike. For "prop," think of all its possible definitions before committing to an answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'prop' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'prop' typically refers to something that provides support, such as a physical brace or pole, or something that aids or helps. It can also refer to an object used in a theatrical performance (a 'stage prop'). The specific meaning often depends on the context provided by other words in the clue or the required letter count.
How can I distinguish between the different meanings of 'prop' in a crossword?
To distinguish meanings, consider the word length required by the puzzle grid. For example, 'AID' or 'LEG' for shorter answers; 'ITEM' or 'POLE' for four letters; and 'SUPPORT' for longer answers. Also, pay attention to the surrounding words in the clue – phrases like 'actor's item' might point to a theatrical prop, while 'scaffolding part' suggests a structural support.
Are there common synonyms for 'prop' that often appear as crossword answers?
Yes, common synonyms that frequently appear as answers for 'prop' clues include: AID, LEG, ITEM, POLE, BRACE, STRUT, STAFF, STAKE, and SUPPORT. The precise answer will depend on the required letter count and any subtle nuance implied by the clue itself, as well as checking against crossing letters.