rots crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate guide to solving tricky crossword clues. Here you'll find all the possible solutions for "rots crossword clue", complete with explanations to help you understand the nuances and ace your next puzzle!
Solutions for "rots crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
DECAYS: To break down or decompose through the action of bacteria or fungi; to fall into disrepair.
SPOILS: To damage or impair the quality of something; to go bad, especially food.
7 Letters
MOLDERS: To slowly decay or disintegrate, especially due to neglect or dampness.
FESTERS: To become infected and produce pus; to become rotten or gangrenous. Also, to become a source of resentment or irritation.
9 Letters
PUTREFIES: To rot or decompose, producing a foul smell.
More About "rots crossword clue"
The clue "rots" in a crossword puzzle typically points towards words related to decay, decomposition, or deterioration. This often involves biological processes where organic matter breaks down over time, but it can also refer metaphorically to the decline of something non-biological, like a system or a dream. Common synonyms include 'decays', 'spoils', 'festers', or 'molds'. Understanding these nuances helps solvers choose the correct answer based on the number of letters and any intersecting words.
Crossword setters love to use words with multiple meanings. While "rots" most commonly suggests biological decay, consider broader interpretations. Does it imply moral decay, as in "society rots"? Or a structural breakdown, like a "bridge rots"? Paying attention to the puzzle's theme or the overall tone can sometimes offer additional clues to these subtle variations, guiding you towards the less obvious synonyms for 'rots' that might fit the grid.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and antonyms: For "rots," think about words that mean the same (decay, spoil) but also words that are the opposite (preserve, flourish) if the clue had a different twist.
- Check letter count first: Always match potential answers to the given number of letters. This narrows down possibilities significantly, especially for common words like "rots" with many synonyms.
- Look for prefixes/suffixes: Sometimes, the clue hints at a specific form, like "-ing" or "-ed." While "rots" is a verb, its potential answers might be gerunds or past participles if the clue was slightly different (e.g., "rotting" or "rotted").
- Use cross-references: Don't hesitate to use intersecting letters from other solved clues to confirm or eliminate potential answers for "rots." This is a fundamental crossword strategy.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the most common answer for "rots" in crosswords?
While many words fit, "DECAYS" and "SPOILS" are very frequent answers for "rots" due to their common usage and flexible letter counts that often fit standard grids. However, "MOLDERS" and "FESTERS" are also strong contenders depending on the context.
Can "rots" refer to something non-physical in a crossword?
Yes, absolutely! Crossword clues often play on figurative language. "Rots" can imply moral decay, decline of a system, or general deterioration of an abstract concept, not just physical decomposition. Always consider both literal and figurative meanings.
How do I choose between multiple synonyms for "rots" that fit the letter count?
This is where intersecting letters from other clues become crucial. Fill in surrounding words first. Also, consider the specific nuance of the synonym; for example, "festers" implies a prolonged, often negative, process, which might be hinted at by other clues in the puzzle.