smear crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "smear crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "smear crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DAUB: To apply a substance roughly or untidily.
BLOT: A spot or stain; also, to defame or discredit.
SLUR: A derogatory remark or accusation; also, to pronounce indistinctly.
COAT: To cover with a layer or film.
5 Letters
STAIN: A mark or discoloration, especially one that is difficult to remove; also, to damage one's reputation.
SULLY: To damage the purity or integrity of something or someone; to defile.
LIBEL: To publish a false statement that is damaging to a person's reputation.
6 Letters
GREASE: To lubricate with oil or fat; also, to soil or mark with a greasy substance.
7 Letters
ASPERSE: To attack the reputation or integrity of someone or something; to slander.
More About "smear crossword clue"
"Smear" is a surprisingly versatile word in crosswords, often appearing in clues that can lead to answers of varying lengths and connotations. At its most literal, "smear" refers to the act of applying something thinly or messily, like paint, butter, or mud. This interpretation often yields shorter answers such as DAUB, COAT, or BLOT, which describe a physical action or a resulting mark.
However, "smear" also carries a strong figurative meaning, implying the act of damaging someone's reputation or character. This sense of the word opens up a different set of solutions, including words like STAIN, SULLY, LIBEL, SLUR, or ASPERSE. The challenge for solvers lies in discerning the intended meaning based on the surrounding words in the clue and the letter count of the desired answer. Always consider both the physical and reputational aspects when tackling this clue.
Crossword setters love "smear" because it allows for clever misdirection. A clue might hint at a physical action but require a word related to defamation, or vice-versa. Paying close attention to context and considering all possible synonyms for both meanings will greatly increase your chances of solving it correctly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always read the full clue carefully. Words accompanying "smear" (e.g., "campaign," "butter," "reputation") will strongly suggest whether the answer relates to physical application or defamation.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer slot is a huge hint. Shorter answers like 4-letter words (DAUB, BLOT) often refer to physical actions, while longer ones (ASPERSE, CALUMNY) typically point to reputational damage.
- Consider Double Meanings: Many words in crosswords have multiple meanings. Be prepared for "smear" to refer to both its literal sense (applying a substance) and its figurative sense (damaging a reputation).
- Work the Crosses: If you're stuck, fill in any intersecting letters from clues you've already solved. These letters can often reveal the correct answer for "smear" by narrowing down the possibilities.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a common interpretation of 'smear' in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'smear' often refers to applying a substance thinly or messily, like 'DAUB' or 'COAT'. However, it can also mean to tarnish someone's reputation, leading to answers like 'SLUR' or 'LIBEL'.
How do I know if 'smear' refers to a physical action or a reputation?
The context of the clue is key. Look for other words in the clue that hint towards physical application (e.g., 'with butter', 'on canvas') or reputational damage (e.g., 'character', 'name', 'slanderous act'). The number of letters can also guide you towards common answers for each meaning.
Are there any anagrams commonly associated with 'smear' in clues?
While 'smear' itself might not frequently appear as an anagram indicator, its letters can form words like 'ARMS', 'MARE', 'RAMS', or 'MARS'. Crossword setters sometimes use these as misdirection or part of more complex clues. Always consider all possible interpretations.