secreted crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! This page provides comprehensive solutions for the crossword clue "secreted crossword clue." Whether you're stuck or just verifying, find the answers you need, complete with explanations for various word lengths.
Solutions for "secreted crossword clue" by Letter Count
6 Letters
HIDDEN: Kept out of sight; concealed from view or knowledge.
EXUDED: Discharged slowly and steadily, often referring to moisture or smell.
7 Letters
EMITTED: Produced and discharged (something, especially gas, radiation, or biological substances).
9 Letters
CONCEALED: Kept secret or hidden from view.
More About "secreted crossword clue"
"Secreted" is a fascinating word in the world of crosswords because it plays on its dual meanings, often catching solvers off guard. Its primary dictionary definitions involve either keeping something private or out of sight (like a secret agent might hide, or something being kept 'secreted' away) or, more scientifically, the process by which a gland or cell produces and discharges a substance (like a gland 'secreting' hormones or sweat).
This ambiguity is a common tactic used by crossword setters to make clues more challenging and engaging. When encountering "secreted," always consider both possibilities. Is the puzzle leaning towards clandestine activities, or is it hinting at a biological process? The other words in the clue, the puzzle's theme, or the letter count will often provide crucial hints to guide you to the correct interpretation.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: Many words in crosswords have multiple definitions. Always pause and think if there's an alternative, less common meaning, especially for words like 'secreted', 'cast', or 'rest'.
- Check Letter Count First: The number of letters in the answer is your most powerful constraint. If you're stuck between 'HIDDEN' (6 letters) and 'CONCEALED' (9 letters) for 'secreted', the letter count will immediately tell you which direction to pursue.
- Analyze Surrounding Words: The context provided by other words in the clue is vital. If 'secreted' appears with words like 'gland,' 'fluid,' or 'body,' it's a strong indicator for the biological meaning. If it's paired with 'hidden,' 'covert,' or 'private,' the 'concealed' meaning is likely.
- Leverage Cross-References: Don't be afraid to leave a tricky clue for a moment and solve intersecting clues first. Often, filling in a few letters from other answers will make the difficult clue suddenly click into place.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'secreted' mean in crosswords?
'Secreted' in crosswords often has a dual meaning: it can refer to something being hidden or kept secret (like 'HIDDEN' or 'CONCEALED'), or it can refer to a substance being produced and discharged by an organ or gland (like 'EMITTED' or 'EXUDED'). The context of the clue and the number of letters will help you determine the correct meaning.
Are there common synonyms for 'secreted' in puzzles?
Common synonyms for 'secreted' when referring to hiding include 'HIDDEN', 'CONCEALED', 'BURIED', 'CLANDESTINE'. When referring to biological discharge, synonyms include 'EMITTED', 'EXUDED', 'RELEASED', 'DISCHARGED'.
How do I figure out the right meaning of 'secreted' in a clue?
To determine the correct meaning, first consider the letter count you need. Then, look for any other words in the clue that might give context – for example, if it mentions 'gland' or 'fluid', it's likely the biological meaning. If it implies 'private' or 'unseen', it's the hidden meaning. Trying both types of answers with the given letters is a good strategy.