small dam crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "small dam," you've come to the right place. We've compiled the most likely solutions, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease. Below you'll find solutions organized by the number of letters, ensuring you find exactly what you need.
Solutions for "small dam crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WEIR: A low dam built across a river to raise the water level slightly, divert water, or regulate flow. It's a very common answer for this clue.
DIKE: An embankment built to prevent the passage of water, often referred to as a levee. While broader, a smaller dike can function as a dam for specific purposes.
More About "small dam crossword clue"
The term "small dam" in crosswords usually refers to structures designed to control or divert water on a smaller scale than large hydroelectric dams. These can include weirs, which are often found in rivers to maintain water levels or measure flow, and dikes (or dykes), which are embankments built to prevent flooding or to enclose an area of water.
Understanding these specific types of water barriers can be crucial for solving crosswords, as clues often rely on precise terminology. While a large dam might block an entire valley to create a vast reservoir, a small dam serves more localized purposes like irrigation, creating small ponds, or managing water flow in streams and canals.
Crossword constructors love these terms because they are concise, common in specific contexts, and can be used to form challenging but fair clues. Recognizing the difference between a general "dam" and a "small dam" is key to pinpointing the exact answer required by the puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Specifics: For clues like "small dam," think beyond the most obvious answer. Is there a more specific term for a small dam in a particular context (e.g., river, canal)? "Weir" and "dike" are perfect examples of specific terms.
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters provided in the grid. This is your primary filter for potential answers. For "small dam," if you have four letters, WEIR or DIKE are strong contenders.
- Look for Related Clues: Sometimes other clues in the puzzle can provide hints or context. For instance, if there are other clues related to water, rivers, or engineering, it might confirm you're on the right track for a water-related answer.
- Think About British vs. American English: Some terms, like "dike" vs. "dyke," can vary. Be aware of the puzzle's likely origin if you're stuck between two spellings.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common crossword answer for 'small dam'?
The most frequent crossword answer for 'small dam' is 'WEIR'. This term perfectly fits the description of a low barrier across a river to control water flow.
Why are water-related terms like 'weir' or 'dike' common in crosswords?
Water-related terms are common in crosswords because they often refer to specific, concise structures or phenomena that have unique names, making them ideal for short, precise answers. They also tap into a universal understanding of geography and civil engineering.
How can I improve my crossword vocabulary for niche terms like types of dams?
To improve your vocabulary for niche terms, pay attention to common crossword themes (e.g., geography, nature, mythology, specific professions). Using a thesaurus for clue words, learning prefixes/suffixes, and regularly solving a variety of puzzles will also greatly expand your knowledge base.