reaping hook crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. On this page, you'll find comprehensive solutions and detailed explanations for the clue "reaping hook crossword clue," helping you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "reaping hook crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
SCYTHE: A large, long-handled agricultural tool with a curved blade used for mowing grass or reaping crops.
SICKLE: A hand-held agricultural tool with a curved blade, typically used for harvesting grain or cutting grass.
More About "reaping hook crossword clue"
The term "reaping hook" refers to traditional agricultural implements designed for harvesting crops, especially grains like wheat, oats, or barley, and for cutting grass. These tools have been fundamental to agriculture for centuries, predating modern machinery. Their design allows for efficient cutting close to the ground, minimizing waste and maximizing yield.
While the primary answers for "reaping hook" in crosswords are often SCYTHE or SICKLE, it's important to understand their distinctions. The sickle is a smaller, one-handed tool, ideal for precise work or harvesting in confined spaces. The scythe, on the other hand, is a larger, two-handed tool capable of clearing much wider swaths, making it suitable for larger fields. Both embody simple yet effective engineering, allowing early civilizations to cultivate and sustain their populations.
Understanding these tools not only helps in solving crosswords but also provides a glimpse into the history of farming and human ingenuity. The "reaping hook" clue is a classic example of how crosswords often bridge language, history, and everyday objects.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms for function: For tools, think about what they do. "Reaping hook" immediately suggests cutting or harvesting. Think of words associated with those actions.
- Check letter count carefully: As seen with SCYTHE and SICKLE, multiple answers can exist for a clue. The exact letter count is often the key differentiator.
- Think historically: Many tool-related clues in crosswords refer to older, traditional implements rather than modern equivalents. Consider the historical context of the word.
- Look at intersecting letters: If you have partial letters from other clues, these can often narrow down your options between similar answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a reaping hook?
A reaping hook is an agricultural tool with a curved blade typically used for harvesting crops like grain, or for cutting grass. The most common terms for such tools in crosswords are 'sickle' or 'scythe', both designed for cutting vegetation close to the ground.
Are 'scythe' and 'sickle' interchangeable for a reaping hook clue?
While both 'scythe' and 'sickle' are types of reaping hooks, they are distinct tools. A sickle is smaller and hand-held, for one-handed use, while a scythe is a larger tool with a long handle, typically used with both hands for larger areas. In crosswords, either could be the answer depending on the letter count or other intersecting clues.
How can I identify the correct 'reaping hook' answer in a crossword?
To identify the correct answer, first check the number of letters required. If it's 6 letters, both 'SCYTHE' and 'SICKLE' are possibilities. Look for intersecting words that might confirm specific letters. Also, consider the specific nuance of the clue; sometimes a crossword might hint at the size or specific use of the tool.