retainer crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate guide for solving tricky crossword clues. On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and detailed explanations for the "retainer crossword clue," covering all possible word lengths. Let's get that puzzle finished!
Solutions for "retainer crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FEE: An initial payment to secure professional services, often referred to as a retainer fee.
5 Letters
BRACE: Short for orthodontic brace, a device worn to hold teeth in place after alignment, functioning as a dental retainer.
6 Letters
LAWYER: A legal professional who is often paid a retainer to secure their services or availability.
7 Letters
DEPOSIT: A sum of money paid upfront to confirm a contract or service, similar in concept to a retainer.
SERVANT: Historically, a person employed in service, particularly one who lived in their employer's house; an older meaning of a retainer.
8 Letters
ADVOCATE: Another term for a legal professional or someone who publicly supports a cause, often engaged via a retainer agreement.
More About "retainer crossword clue"
The word "retainer" is a classic crossword puzzle favorite due to its multiple distinct meanings. From the financial world, where a retainer is an upfront payment to secure services (like a lawyer's fee or a booking deposit), to the medical field, referring to an orthodontic device that keeps teeth in place, its versatility allows setters to craft clues that can be wonderfully tricky.
Beyond modern usage, "retainer" also carries historical significance. In older contexts, it could refer to a servant or a dependent who was "retained" in the service of a lord or noble. This historical layer adds another dimension for clever clues, often appearing in more traditional or British-style crosswords. Understanding these different facets is key to cracking the clue.
When you encounter "retainer crossword clue," always consider the number of letters and any intersecting words first. Then, think about the most common interpretations: is it about money, a person, or a dental appliance? This systematic approach will quickly narrow down the possibilities and lead you to the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: As with "retainer," many words have multiple meanings. Always think broadly about different contexts—financial, medical, historical, etc.
- Use intersecting letters: The most reliable way to confirm an answer is by checking how it fits with letters from crossing clues. If it doesn't fit, it's not the right answer.
- Check the word length: This is your primary filter. An answer must precisely match the number of squares provided.
- Look for synonyms and antonyms: Sometimes the clue isn't direct but asks for a synonym or even an antonym of a related concept.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'retainer' mean in a crossword puzzle?
In crossword puzzles, 'retainer' can refer to several things: an upfront payment (like a fee or deposit), a legal professional (like a lawyer or advocate), or even an orthodontic device (like a brace). The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and other intersecting clues.
Are there different types of 'retainer' answers?
Yes, 'retainer' is a versatile word with multiple meanings that crossword setters love to use. Common categories include financial (FEE, DEPOSIT), legal professionals (LAWYER, ADVOCATE), and medical devices (BRACE). Sometimes, historical meanings like SERVANT also appear.
How do I know which 'retainer' answer to use?
To determine the correct 'retainer' answer, first check the letter count of the blank space in your puzzle. Then, consider any intersecting letters you already have. Finally, the specific wording of the clue or other clues in the puzzle might hint at a particular context (e.g., 'legal payment' points to FEE/LAWYER, 'dental appliance' points to BRACE).