runner crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "runner" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. This versatile word can refer to many things, and we've compiled a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by length, to help you complete your grid.
Solutions for "runner crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
JOGGER: A person who runs, often for exercise.
7 Letters
SNEAKER: A type of athletic shoe, commonly used for running.
6 Letters
SPRINT: A short, fast race or burst of speed, often performed by a runner.
6 Letters
CARPET: A long, narrow rug, often referred to as a runner, used in hallways or on stairs.
7 Letters
COURIER: A person employed to deliver messages or packages, implying they 'run' errands.
7 Letters
ATHLETE: A person who competes in sports, often involving running.
8 Letters
SMUGGLER: A person who moves goods illegally, often implying quick movement or 'running' contraband.
More About "runner crossword clue"
The clue "runner" is a classic example of a word with multiple meanings that crossword setters love to use. It highlights the importance of context in solving puzzles. A "runner" could be a person, like a marathoner or a jogger, focused on athletic performance. Alternatively, it could refer to an inanimate object, such as a narrow rug found in a hallway, or even a part of a plant that spreads, like a strawberry runner.
Furthermore, "runner" can denote someone who performs errands, like a courier, or, in a more illicit sense, a smuggler. This vast range of interpretations means that when you encounter "runner" in a clue, your first step should be to look for any additional hints within the clue itself or from intersecting letters you've already solved. Considering the overall theme of the crossword puzzle can also sometimes guide you towards the correct meaning.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Embrace Polysemy: Always remember that many words, like "runner," have multiple meanings. If your first thought for a word doesn't fit, think of its other definitions.
- Check Word Length and Intersections: The number of letters required and any already-filled intersecting letters are your most powerful tools for narrowing down possibilities.
- Consider the Source: Some crosswords lean more towards literal meanings, while others might favor cryptic or more obscure definitions. Understanding the setter's style can help.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Sometimes the clue hints at a synonym for one of "runner's" many meanings, or even an antonym if the clue implies the opposite.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "runner" have so many different answers in crosswords?
The word "runner" is polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings. In crosswords, clues often exploit these different definitions to challenge solvers. It can refer to a person, an object (like a rug or a plant part), a type of shoe, or even someone who transports things, legally or illegally.
How can I narrow down the meaning of "runner" in a specific clue?
To narrow it down, always look for context in the clue. Are there other words that suggest a sport, a piece of furniture, a plant, or a type of person? Also, consider the number of letters in the answer, and any intersecting letters from other solved clues, which can provide vital hints.
Are there any common "runner" related words that appear frequently?
Yes, common answers often include JOGGER (person), SNEAKER (shoe), SPRINT (type of run), and MAT or CARPET (types of rugs). Depending on the setter's style, you might also see words related to plant runners or people who run errands.