putrefy crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "putrefy", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers broken down by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you across the finish line.
Solutions for "putrefy crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ROT: To decompose; a very common synonym for putrefy in puzzles.
5 Letters
DECAY: To undergo decomposition; to rot or break down.
SPOIL: To become unfit for use or consumption; to go bad.
6 Letters
FESTER: To become rotten and offensive; to generate pus.
7 Letters
CORRUPT: To decay or cause to decay; to make impure or debased.
9 Letters
DECOMPOSE: To make or become rotten; to break down into constituent parts.
More About "putrefy crossword clue"
"Putrefy" is a classic crossword clue that often points to words related to decay, decomposition, and spoilage. Originating from the Latin 'putrefacere', meaning 'to make rotten', the word evokes the biological process where organic matter breaks down, often accompanied by an unpleasant odor. This concept is frequently tested in crosswords across various difficulties, from quick cryptic puzzles to more challenging themed grids.
When you encounter "putrefy" as a clue, consider the context and the number of letters provided in the grid. Common answers like ROT or DECAY are staples, but depending on the puzzle's complexity, you might also find less obvious synonyms such as FESTER, SPOIL, or even CORRUPT, which can imply a more general deterioration. Understanding these nuances helps in pinpointing the precise answer.
The beauty of such clues in crosswords lies in their directness while still offering a range of possible answers based on length and subtle shifts in meaning. Always double-check your chosen answer against crossing words to ensure it fits perfectly within the puzzle's structure.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always count the available squares in the grid. This immediately narrows down the possible answers for "putrefy" from many options to just a few, like ROT (3 letters) or DECAY (5 letters).
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: For clues like "putrefy," consider all words related to decay, spoilage, breakdown, or becoming rotten. Brainstorm synonyms like "rot," "decay," "spoil," "fester," or "decompose."
- Use Crossing Letters: If you have one or two letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them! They will quickly confirm or rule out potential answers for "putrefy," helping you deduce the correct word efficiently.
- Consider the Puzzle's Theme: Sometimes, a puzzle might have a theme related to nature, science, or even unpleasant things. Being aware of the overall theme can sometimes provide a hint towards the specific nuance of "putrefy" that the setter intends.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'putrefy' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'putrefy' typically refers to the process of decay or decomposition, often implying organic matter going bad. Common answers are synonyms like ROT, DECAY, SPOIL, FESTER, or DECOMPOSE.
How do I determine the correct letter count for a 'putrefy' answer?
The letter count is crucial. Look at the number of empty squares in your crossword grid for the 'putrefy' clue. If you have three squares, look for a 3-letter answer like ROT. Five squares might point to DECAY or SPOIL.
Are there common alternative clues for answers to 'putrefy'?
Yes, answers like ROT can also be clued as 'Go bad,' 'Decompose,' or 'Spoil.' DECAY might appear as 'Wither' or 'Break down.' Always consider the precise wording of the clue and surrounding letters to find the best fit.