reel crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "reel crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "reel crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SPIN: To turn or cause to turn rapidly, as a fishing reel or one's head.
FILM: A strip of photographic or motion picture material, often wound onto a reel.
5 Letters
SPOOL: A cylinder on which wire, thread, or film is wound, a synonym for a reel.
DANCE: A type of lively folk dance, such as a Scottish or Irish reel.
6 Letters
WOBBLE: To move unsteadily from side to side, a synonym for 'to reel' in the sense of staggering.
7 Letters
STAGGER: To walk or move unsteadily, often used as a direct synonym for 'to reel' from a blow or fatigue.
More About "reel crossword clue"
The clue "reel" is a classic example of a crossword word with multiple meanings, making it a favorite for setters and a challenging one for solvers. It can function as both a verb and a noun, each with distinct interpretations. As a verb, "to reel" can mean to stagger or sway unsteadily, often due to a physical impact or dizziness. It can also mean to spin or wind something, like a fishing line onto a reel or yarn onto a spool.
When "reel" is used as a noun, its common meanings include a cylindrical device for winding thread, wire, or fishing line, or a spool of photographic or motion picture film. Less commonly, but significantly in crosswords, a "reel" refers to a lively folk dance, particularly popular in Scottish and Irish traditions. Understanding these different contexts is crucial for deciphering the correct answer based on the clue's subtle hints and the number of letters required.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Always assume a word might have more than one interpretation. For "reel," think of its noun forms (film, spool, dance) and verb forms (spin, stagger, wind).
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your best friend. It immediately eliminates many possibilities and guides you toward the correct synonym or homograph.
- Look for Context Clues: Other words in the clue, if present, can provide vital context. Is it "Reel of film" or "Reel from a punch"? This helps clarify the intended meaning.
- Think of Homophones/Homographs: Crossword setters love words that sound the same but are spelled differently, or are spelled the same but have different meanings. "Reel" perfectly fits the latter category.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'reel' mean in a crossword clue?
The word 'reel' is highly versatile in crosswords, acting as both a noun and a verb. As a verb, it often implies spinning, wobbling, staggering, or winding. As a noun, it can refer to a spool for fishing line or film, or even a type of folk dance. Context within the puzzle is key to determining its meaning.
Are there different types of 'reel' clues?
Yes, 'reel' clues can be diverse! They might hint at movement (e.g., 'Reel from a punch' for STAGGER), film (e.g., 'Movie reel' for FILM), fishing equipment (e.g., 'Fishing reel part' for SPOOL), or even a dance (e.g., 'Scottish dance' for REEL or DANCE). Always consider multiple interpretations of the word.
How can I solve crossword clues related to movement or film?
For movement clues, think about synonyms for various types of motion: quick (SPIN, TWIRL), unsteady (WOBBLE, STAGGER), or rotational (WIND). For film-related clues, consider terms like MOVIE, CINEMA, or specifically components like FILM or SPOOL. Paying attention to the clue's word count and surrounding letters will narrow down the options.