sickly crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the clue "sickly", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "sickly crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
WAN: Pale and giving the impression of ill health or exhaustion.
4 Letters
PALE: (of a person or their skin) having a light complexion or lacking in color, often due to illness or shock.
5 Letters
PEAKY: Looking ill or sickly; unwell and lacking in vigor.
6 Letters
AILING: In poor health; unwell. Often used to describe a chronic or long-term state of sickness.
UNWELL: Not in good health; ill. A general term for feeling sick or under the weather.
More About "sickly crossword clue"
"Sickly" is a versatile adjective frequently appearing in crossword puzzles. It can describe a person's physical state, indicating poor health or a pale complexion, but also a quality, such as something excessively sweet to the point of being nauseating, or even something feeble or unconvincing. When encountering this clue, it's crucial to consider the context provided by other clues or the puzzle's theme.
Crossword setters love words with multiple meanings or subtle nuances, and "sickly" fits this perfectly. Common answers often revolve around physical appearance or general health, but don't rule out more abstract interpretations like a 'sickly' performance (meaning weak or poor). Always keep an eye on the number of letters required for the answer, as this is your most reliable guide.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always prioritize the number of letters. This is the most crucial piece of information for narrowing down potential answers.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: For descriptive clues like "sickly," brainstorm as many synonyms as possible (e.g., weak, pale, unwell, frail). Sometimes, the clue might be a subtle antonym of another word.
- Check for Homographs and Multiple Meanings: Remember that words can have multiple meanings. "Sickly" could refer to health, but also to a cloyingly sweet taste. Be open to less common interpretations of the word.
- Use Cross-References: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in from other clues to confirm or eliminate possibilities for "sickly."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sickly' mean in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'sickly' often refers to someone who is unwell, pale, or weak. It can also describe something that is excessively sweet to the point of being nauseating, or generally feeble and unconvincing. The context of the puzzle usually helps determine the intended meaning.
Are there common synonyms for 'sickly' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include WAN, PALE, PEAKY, AILING, UNWELL, QUEASY, and FEEBLE. The exact answer depends on the number of letters required and how the clue interacts with other words in the puzzle.
How do I approach clues about physical states or conditions?
When solving clues about physical states like 'sickly', think broadly about synonyms, antonyms (if the clue implies the opposite), and related concepts. Consider both literal and figurative meanings. Always keep the letter count in mind, and use any intersecting letters from solved clues to guide your choice.