small telescope crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with 'small telescope crossword clue'? You're in the right place! We've compiled all the potential answers and explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately. Find solutions by word length and dive into related insights.
Solutions for "small telescope crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
OPERA: Often refers to 'opera glasses', a compact viewing device.
8 Letters
SPYGLASS: A traditional single-tube portable telescope, often associated with maritime use.
9 Letters
MONOCULAR: A compact, single-eye telescope for viewing distant objects.
More About "small telescope crossword clue"
The clue "small telescope" often points towards compact, portable optical devices rather than large astronomical instruments. In crossword puzzles, these can be clued in various ways, but they typically refer to something handheld and easy to carry. Common answers include terms for devices used for viewing distant objects discreetly or in specific settings, like a theatre.
One of the most frequent answers for this type of clue, especially when a shorter word is required, is "OPERA". This directly refers to 'opera glasses', which are a type of small, low-power binocular designed for viewing performances from a distance. While not a telescope in the strict astronomical sense, their function as a magnified viewing aid for distant objects fits the clue's intent perfectly within a crossword context.
Beyond 'opera glasses', you might encounter terms like 'SPYGLASS' or 'MONOCULAR'. A spyglass is a classic single-tube telescope, often collapsible, historically used by sailors. A monocular is a modern compact single-lens telescope, essentially half a pair of binoculars. Both fit the description of a 'small telescope' and are common entries in crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This is your first and most crucial hint, narrowing down possibilities significantly.
- Consider Synonyms & Context: For clues like "small telescope," think beyond literal telescopes. Could it be a type of viewing instrument, a part of one, or something used for specific small-scale observation? "Opera" for "opera glasses" is a classic example.
- Look for Specific Types: Crosswords often feature specific types of instruments. If you're stuck, consider historical terms like 'SPYGLASS' or modern compact versions like 'MONOCULAR'.
- Use Intersecting Letters: If you have letters from intersecting words, use them to confirm or rule out potential answers. This is often the key to unlocking tricky clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some common synonyms for a small telescope in crosswords?
Common answers include SPYGLASS, MONOCULAR, OPERA (for 'opera glasses'), and sometimes even LENS or VIEWER depending on the specific clue context.
How do I approach crossword clues about optical instruments?
Consider the number of letters, common terms like 'lens', 'scope', 'glass', and specific types like 'binocular', 'monocular', or historical terms like 'spyglass'. Also, think about the context – e.g., 'theater' might lead to 'opera glasses'.
Are 'opera glasses' considered a 'small telescope'?
Yes, in a crossword context, 'opera glasses' (often clued simply as 'opera') are indeed a type of small, low-power binocular telescope designed for viewing performances.