rake crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the "rake crossword clue" and need a quick solution or a deeper understanding, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "rake crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TOOL: A common garden implement used for gathering leaves or debris.
COMB: Can refer to a tool similar to a rake, or the action of searching thoroughly.
TILT: To set at an angle or incline, related to one meaning of 'rake'.
5 Letters
ROGUE: A mischievous or unprincipled person, often a synonym for 'rake' in its older, dissolute sense.
9 Letters
SCOUNDREL: A dishonest or immoral person, a more intense synonym for 'rake' when referring to a dissolute individual.
More About "rake crossword clue"
"Rake" is a fascinating word in the world of crosswords due to its distinct multiple meanings. On one hand, it's a straightforward gardening implement—a tool with a long handle and a row of teeth, used for gathering leaves, leveling soil, or clearing debris. Clues relating to this meaning often involve gardening, yard work, or specific actions like "gather" or "collect."
On the other hand, "rake" can also refer to a historical term for a dissolute, immoral, or fashionable man, particularly one devoted to pleasure and vice. This older usage provides a rich vein for crossword setters to create more challenging and nuanced clues, often playing on synonyms like "rogue," "cad," or "libertine." Understanding which meaning the clue refers to is key to solving it correctly, and often involves paying close attention to the clue's tone and context.
Furthermore, "rake" can imply an action like "to sweep" or "to comb through," or even "to set at an angle" (as in, the rake of a mast on a ship). This versatility makes "rake" a popular and sometimes tricky word for crossword constructors, forcing solvers to consider all possibilities before committing to an answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always assume common words might have less obvious or archaic meanings, especially for short answers. "Rake" is a prime example of a word with several distinct definitions.
- Check Letter Count First: Before brainstorming answers, always note the required letter count. This immediately narrows down possibilities and helps you focus on words that fit the grid.
- Look for Context Clues: Pay attention to other words in the clue. Do they suggest a setting (e.g., "garden," "estate") or a characteristic (e.g., "scoundrel," "playboy")? This will guide you toward the correct meaning of a multi-faceted word like "rake."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main meanings of "rake" in crosswords?
In crosswords, "rake" commonly refers to a gardening tool, an action (to gather or scrape), or a dissolute man. Crossword setters often play on these multiple meanings to create challenging clues.
How can I tell which meaning of "rake" the clue refers to?
To discern the intended meaning, consider the letter count and surrounding clues. If the clue mentions gardening, debris, or a similar context, it's likely the tool. If the clue hints at character, morality, or social standing, it points towards the 'dissolute person' meaning. The tone of the clue is also a good indicator.
Are there common synonyms for "rake" (the person) in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms for 'rake' when referring to a dissolute person include ROGUE, CAD, LIBERTINE, DEBAUCHEE, and SCOUNDREL. The specific answer will depend on the number of letters required by the puzzle.