sick crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "sick" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. This page provides all possible answers, explanations, and tips to help you complete your puzzle with ease, no matter the context.
Solutions for "sick crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ILL: A common and direct synonym for being unwell or not feeling well.
4 Letters
COOL: Informal slang meaning impressive or excellent, often used in contemporary puzzles to reflect a different sense of "sick."
5 Letters
GROSS: Implies something disgusting or unpleasant, another common interpretation of "sick."
6 Letters
QUEASY: Feeling nauseous or slightly ill, often a specific state of being sick.
AILING: Suffering from an illness or infirmity, a more formal term for being unwell.
More About "sick crossword clue"
The clue "sick" in crosswords is a fascinating one because it's a prime example of a word with multiple meanings that puzzle setters love to exploit. Beyond its most common interpretation of being unwell or experiencing an illness, "sick" can refer to something disgusting or unpleasant, or, in more modern or informal puzzles, it can mean something excellent or impressive – as in 'that's a sick beat!' Understanding these nuances is key to cracking such clues.
Crossword compilers often play on these different contexts. If the puzzle has a more traditional or classic feel, 'sick' will likely point towards terms like 'ill' or 'unwell'. However, in a more contemporary or pop culture-leaning puzzle, you might be looking for words like 'cool' or 'awesome'. Always consider the tone and overall theme of the crossword to narrow down the possible interpretations.
Furthermore, 'sick' can also describe a feeling of nausea or a physical reaction, leading to answers like 'queasy' or 'vomit'. Paying attention to accompanying words in the clue (if any) or checking crossing letters is crucial when dealing with such versatile terms, helping you to pinpoint the exact meaning intended by the setter.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: For words like "sick," brainstorm every possible definition – literal, slang, and even archaic. Don't limit yourself to the most obvious interpretation.
- Check letter counts: Once you have a potential answer, count its letters carefully to see if it matches any required length in your puzzle. This is a critical first filter.
- Look for synonyms: Think of words that mean the same thing but might fit a different letter count. Thesauruses and online synonym finders can be a great help when you're stuck.
- Use crossing letters: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them as vital hints to confirm or narrow down your choices for "sick." These letters often eliminate incorrect possibilities quickly.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does "sick" have so many different answers in crosswords?
"Sick" is a homograph and polysemous word, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings and can also refer to related but different concepts. Crossword setters frequently leverage these various interpretations (e.g., ill, cool, disgusting) to create challenging and diverse clues.
How can I tell which meaning of "sick" a crossword clue intends?
Context is key! Look at other words in the clue, the puzzle's theme, the setter's style (traditional vs. modern), and especially any crossing letters you've already filled in. These will help narrow down the intended meaning.
Are slang terms like "cool" common answers in crosswords?
Yes, increasingly so! Modern crosswords often incorporate contemporary slang, pop culture references, and informal language to keep puzzles fresh and relevant. Always be prepared for a mix of classic and current vocabulary.