sternutation crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the clue "sternutation crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "sternutation crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ACHOO: An onomatopoeic representation of the sound produced during sternutation.
6 Letters
SNEEZE: The most direct and common answer for the act of sternutation.
9 Letters
EXPULSION: A more general term that describes the forceful act of sternutation.
More About "sternutation crossword clue"
The term "sternutation" is derived from Latin "sternutatio," meaning "a sneezing." While not as commonly used in everyday language as "sneeze," it's a favorite among crossword setters for its slightly more formal and less obvious nature. This allows puzzle creators to challenge solvers' vocabulary while still pointing to a very common human physiological reflex.
Understanding such clues often involves recognizing synonyms or related concepts. In the case of "sternutation," solvers might think of the action itself, the sound it makes, or the general category of involuntary bodily expulsions. Crossword puzzles frequently leverage this kind of wordplay, where a less common synonym or a descriptive phrase leads to a more common answer.
Next time you encounter a word that seems overly scientific or obscure in a crossword, consider its everyday equivalent. Often, the answer is a simple, familiar word disguised by a more elaborate clue, just like "sternutation" leading to "sneeze."
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word's Origin: For words like "sternutation," thinking about potential Latin or Greek roots can sometimes hint at the meaning or a related concept.
- Consider Onomatopoeia: If the clue describes a sound (like "sternutation" often implies 'achoo'), look for words that mimic sounds.
- Think About Context: Is the puzzle themed? Does the clue relate to science, body functions, or a specific field? This can narrow down possible answers.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sternutation' mean?
'Sternutation' is a formal or medical term for the act of sneezing. It refers to the sudden, forceful, involuntary expulsion of air from the lungs through the nose and mouth, often as a result of irritation of the nasal mucous membrane.
Why is 'sternutation' a common crossword clue?
'Sternutation' is a classic crossword clue because it's a relatively uncommon, formal word for a common action. This allows setters to use it to test vocabulary and provide a less obvious path to the answer 'SNEEZE' or 'ACHOO', making the puzzle more engaging.
Are there other words for sneezing in English?
While 'sneeze' is the most common verb, 'sternutation' is the noun form. Onomatopoeic representations like 'achoo' are also common. In medical contexts, one might encounter terms describing the reflex or its components, but 'sneeze' and 'sternutation' are the primary general terms.