shortening crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "shortening crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "shortening crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FAT: A common cooking ingredient, often used as a shortening.
4 Letters
LARD: Rendered pig fat, a traditional shortening, frequently clued as a shortening.
TRIM: To reduce or shorten, as in trimming a hedge or an article of clothing.
6 Letters
CRISCO: A well-known brand of vegetable shortening, a popular answer in crosswords.
7 Letters
CURTAIL: To reduce in extent or quantity; impose a restriction on, meaning to shorten or cut short.
10 Letters
ABBREVIATE: To shorten (a word, phrase, or text), often represented by an initialism or acronym.
More About "shortening crossword clue"
"Shortening" is a versatile clue in crosswords, often leading solvers down multiple paths. Its primary meaning relates to culinary fats like lard or vegetable shortening, which are used to make pastries tender and flaky. These are common household terms, making them prime candidates for crossword puzzles.
However, "shortening" can also refer to the act of making something shorter – be it an action, a length, or a duration. Think of words like 'trim' or 'curtail.' This dual nature requires solvers to consider the context provided by the rest of the clue and any intersecting letters. Additionally, the term can refer to a linguistic abbreviation, which is a shortened form of a word or phrase.
The beauty of this clue lies in its ability to test your vocabulary across different domains, from the kitchen to grammar. Always consider the number of letters required and the surrounding clues to narrow down the possibilities. Sometimes, a brand name like CRISCO might be the unexpected but correct answer, highlighting the need for broad general knowledge in crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: For clues like "shortening," consider the broader theme of the puzzle or other nearby clues. Is it a cooking-themed puzzle? Or perhaps one about wordplay?
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters required. This is often the quickest way to eliminate many potential answers, especially for clues with multiple meanings.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: If a direct answer isn't obvious, think of words that mean the same (or opposite) as parts of the clue. For "shortening," consider synonyms for cutting, reducing, or specific types of fats.
- Consider Common Crossword Abbreviation: Many clues hint at abbreviations. If 'shortening' feels like it's pointing to a shortened word (e.g., 'Mister' to 'MR'), keep an eye out for initialisms or common abbreviated forms.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'shortening' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'shortening' can refer to a culinary fat (like lard or butter), an act of making something shorter (like curtailing or trimming), or an abbreviation of a word or phrase. The context of the clue and existing letters will guide you to the correct meaning.
How do I identify the correct "shortening" answer among many possibilities?
Pay close attention to the word length given in the puzzle, and any intersecting letters you've already filled in. Also, consider the specific nuance of the clue: is it referring to a cooking ingredient, an action, or a linguistic abbreviation? Common crossword patterns and typical clue styles can also offer hints.
Are brand names like 'CRISCO' common answers for 'shortening' clues?
Yes, brand names for common household products, especially those that have become genericized or are widely recognized, frequently appear in crosswords. CRISCO is a classic example of a brand name used for "shortening" due to its widespread recognition in the kitchen.