sticky substance crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "sticky substance" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all the possible answers, along with helpful explanations, to get you back on track and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "sticky substance crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
GUM: A common sticky substance derived from plants, often used in confectionery or for sticking, such as chewing gum or a type of adhesive.
GOO: A general, informal term for any sticky or viscous substance.
TAR: A dark, sticky, viscous material obtained from the destructive distillation of organic substances such as wood or coal, often used in road building.
SAP: The fluid which circulates in vascular plants, often sticky, carrying water and nutrients.
4 Letters
GLUE: An adhesive substance used to bond materials together, widely used for various purposes from crafts to construction.
5 Letters
RESIN: A sticky, viscous organic substance secreted by certain plants, especially conifers, or a synthetic polymer used in plastics and adhesives.
PASTE: A soft, moist, or sticky mixture, often used as an adhesive or a thick, soft food preparation.
PITCH: A black or dark brown viscous substance obtained from the distillation of petroleum, coal tar, or wood tar, known for its stickiness.
6 Letters
MASTIC: A sticky, strong adhesive or sealant, often used in construction or as a resin from the mastic tree, known for its binding properties.
8 Letters
ADHESIVE: A general term for any substance that is used to stick things together, known for its sticky properties and ability to bond surfaces.
More About "sticky substance crossword clue"
The "sticky substance" clue is a staple in crosswords, often appearing in various forms to test a solver's general knowledge and vocabulary. From natural exudates like tree sap and resin to manufactured products such as glue, paste, and adhesives, the range of possible answers is quite broad. This diversity makes the clue challenging but also rewarding when you pinpoint the exact word that fits the grid.
Understanding the nuances of these sticky terms can significantly help. For instance, while 'glue' and 'adhesive' are similar, 'adhesive' is a more general category that includes glues, tapes, and other bonding agents. 'Gum' can refer to a plant product or a confection. Paying attention to the letter count and how the clue might be subtly hinting at a specific type of stickiness is crucial.
Many sticky substances have a rich history, from ancient civilizations using natural resins as sealants to modern industries relying on advanced adhesives. Crossword clues often tap into this everyday familiarity, making "sticky substance" an accessible yet intriguing topic for wordplay.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: If you have some letters filled in, immediately narrow down your options for "sticky substance" by the number of letters that fit. This is often the quickest way to find the right answer.
- Think About Context: Is there anything else in the clue or surrounding clues that gives a hint about the origin or use of the sticky substance? For example, "Tree product" might point to SAP or RESIN, while "Crafting supply" could suggest GLUE or PASTE.
- Brainstorm Synonyms and Related Words: Even if you don't immediately know the answer, thinking of various types of sticky substances (natural, synthetic, culinary, industrial) can often lead you to the correct term.
- Check Cross-References: If the clue is linked to other clues in the puzzle, those intersections can provide crucial letters that unlock the answer for "sticky substance."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are 'sticky substance' clues so common in crosswords?
'Sticky substance' clues are popular because they allow for a wide range of answers with varying lengths and origins (natural, synthetic, culinary, industrial), making them versatile for puzzle constructors. They test a solver's vocabulary across different domains.
How can I distinguish between similar sticky substance answers like 'glue' and 'adhesive'?
Context is key. 'Glue' often refers to a specific type or general use, while 'adhesive' is a broader, more technical term. Look at the number of letters required and any surrounding words in the clue or grid that might hint at a more specific type (e.g., 'tree ____' for SAP or RESIN, 'crafting ____' for GLUE).
Are there any less common sticky substances that appear in crosswords?
Beyond the common ones like GUM, GLUE, and RESIN, you might encounter terms like MASTIC (a strong sealant), TAR (a dark, viscous material), PITCH (a black or dark brown viscous substance from petroleum or coal), or even rarer ones depending on the puzzle's theme, like MUCILAGE (a viscous plant secretion).