runaway crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "runaway" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your grid quickly and accurately. Find the perfect fit for your puzzle below!
Solutions for "runaway crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
AWOL: Absent Without Official Leave; often implies desertion from military duty, thus 'running away'.
6 Letters
ELOPER: One who runs away, typically secretly and suddenly, often to get married without consent.
7 Letters
ESCAPEE: A person who has broken free from confinement, such as a prison or other form of detention.
8 Letters
FUGITIVE: Someone who is fleeing from justice, pursuit, or a dangerous situation, hence on the run.
DESERTER: A person who abandons military duty or their post without permission, effectively running away from obligations.
More About "runaway crossword clue"
The term "runaway" in crosswords is a versatile clue that can refer to various scenarios beyond just physical escape. It often implies a lack of control, rapid uncontrolled growth, or deviation from an expected course. For instance, 'runaway inflation' describes an economic situation out of control, or a 'runaway success' denotes something achieving unexpected and immense popularity.
Crossword setters leverage these different shades of meaning. While common answers might relate to a person fleeing (like a fugitive or escapee), equally valid solutions could describe an accelerating process or a phenomenon that has broken free from constraints. Always consider the context of the puzzle – is it a cryptic crossword relying on wordplay, or a standard grid seeking direct synonyms?
Understanding these nuances is key to solving "runaway" clues. By thinking broadly about synonyms for 'escape,' 'uncontrolled,' 'rapid increase,' or 'desertion,' you can unlock the correct answer, especially when combined with the specific letter count required by the puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Context: Does "runaway" refer to a person, an object, or an abstract concept like a trend or growth? This often dictates the type of answer you're looking for.
- Check Letter Count First: Always start by matching the clue with the number of letters. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and narrows your search.
- Think of Synonyms & Antonyms: Brainstorm words related to escape, flight, freedom, or lack of control. Sometimes, a clue might imply the opposite of a runaway situation.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: If you have any letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them as vital clues. They can quickly confirm or rule out potential answers.
- Explore Homographs/Homophones: For cryptic clues, consider if "runaway" could be part of a larger phrase or have a sound-alike meaning.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'runaway' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'runaway' often refers to someone who has fled (e.g., ESCAPEE, FUGITIVE, DESERTER, ELOPER), or a situation that is out of control and rapidly increasing (e.g., RAMPANT, UNCHECKED). The exact meaning depends on the word length and any crossing letters.
Are there common word lengths for 'runaway' answers?
Answers for 'runaway' can vary greatly in length, from shorter words like AWOL (4 letters) to longer ones such as ESCAPEE (7 letters), FUGITIVE (8 letters), or DESERTER (8 letters). Always check the given number of letters for the solution.
How can I distinguish between similar 'escape' related clues?
Pay close attention to the nuances of the clue. Is it about illegal escape (FUGITIVE, ESCAPEE), military desertion (DESERTER, AWOL), or a romantic elopement (ELOPER)? Cross-referencing with other solved letters in the puzzle will help narrow down the possibilities significantly.