stalk crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "stalk crossword," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "stalk crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
STEM: The main body or central part of a plant, from which leaves and flowers grow.
HUNT: To pursue and search for game or prey; also, metaphorically, to search for something intently.
5 Letters
CHASE: To pursue or follow someone or something quickly, often with the intention of catching them.
TRAIL: To follow the tracks or scent of an animal or person; to move slowly or with difficulty.
6 Letters
FOLLOW: To go or come after in the same direction or order; to move behind someone or something.
More About "stalk crossword"
"Stalk" is a fascinating word in crosswords because of its dual nature: it can refer to an action or a physical object. As a verb, "stalk" often implies a quiet, stealthy pursuit, frequently associated with hunting or following someone unnoticed. This sense lends itself to answers like CHASE, FOLLOW, or TRAIL.
However, "stalk" also commonly refers to the main stem of a plant. In this noun form, it might lead to answers such as STEM or SHAFT (though shaft isn't listed here, it's a common alternative). Recognizing which meaning the clue implies is crucial for selecting the correct answer. Crossword setters love to exploit these kinds of homonyms to challenge solvers.
Always consider the context of the full clue. Are there hints about plants, or about pursuit? This will guide you to the correct interpretation and help you narrow down the possible answers based on letter count and surrounding filled-in letters.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: Many words, like "stalk," have multiple meanings. Always think about both the verb and noun forms, or any other common definitions.
- Check Letter Count: Once you have a potential answer, double-check its letter count against the required length for the grid. This is a primary verification step.
- Context is Key: Pay close attention to other words in the clue. Is it "plant stalk" or "stalking prey"? These contextual clues are vital.
- Think of Synonyms: If a word doesn't immediately come to mind, try brainstorming synonyms for each of the word's meanings.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of "stalk" in crosswords?
"Stalk" can refer to both the act of pursuing someone (like to chase or follow) and the main stem of a plant. Crossword setters often play on these dual meanings, requiring solvers to consider the context of the clue carefully.
How do I determine if "stalk" refers to a verb or a noun in a crossword clue?
Look for surrounding words in the clue for context. If the clue hints at action (e.g., "stalk, as prey," or "follow furtively"), it's likely a verb. If it suggests a part of a plant (e.g., "plant stalk," "flower support"), it's a noun. The number of letters required for the answer can also be a strong indicator, as verb and noun synonyms often have different lengths.
Are there any tricky synonyms for "stalk" I should know?
Beyond the obvious "chase," "follow," or "pursue" for the verb sense, and "stem" or "shaft" for the botanical sense, be aware of less common but possible answers like "prowl" for quiet pursuit. Cryptic clues might sometimes use "stalk" metaphorically for something that annoys persistently, but this is a rarer usage in standard crosswords.