stiffen crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're looking for solutions to "stiffen crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, explanations, and helpful tips to conquer your current puzzle and future ones.
Solutions for "stiffen crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SET: To make something firm or solid, often referring to a substance or a resolve.
4 Letters
FIRM: To make or become solid or stiff, increasing density or resistance.
5 Letters
BRACE: To strengthen or stiffen (something) with a support, often to resist strain or impact.
6 Letters
HARDEN: To make or become hard or solid, increasing rigidity and durability.
TAUTEN: To make or become taut or tense, pulling tight to remove slack.
8 Letters
RIGIDIFY: To make or become rigid, losing flexibility and becoming fixed in form.
More About "stiffen crossword clue"
The clue "stiffen" is a common verb in crosswords, often appearing in a variety of contexts that require a good grasp of its synonyms. It implies a transition from a more pliable state to one of greater rigidity, firmness, or tension. This can apply to physical objects, like a liquid setting into a solid, or to abstract concepts, such as "stiffening one's resolve."
When encountering "stiffen," solvers should consider not only direct synonyms like 'harden' or 'firm' but also words that describe the *result* of stiffening, like 'set' (as in concrete) or 'tauten' (as in a rope). The number of letters provided in the grid is crucial, as it often immediately eliminates many possibilities, guiding you towards the correct length answer.
Pay attention to any additional words in the clue that might hint at a specific nuance or context. For example, 'stiffen (the upper lip)' would suggest a different type of answer than 'stiffen (jelly)'. Crosswords love these subtle distinctions, so a broad vocabulary and an understanding of phrasal verbs related to 'stiffen' will serve you well.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider all meanings: Words like "stiffen" can have literal and figurative meanings. Think about both to broaden your answer pool.
- Check surrounding letters: Once you have a few letters from crossing words, test potential answers for "stiffen" against them. This is often the quickest way to confirm a solution.
- Look for verb tense: If the clue "stiffen" appears in past tense (e.g., "stiffened"), ensure your answer is also in the past tense (e.g., "HARDENED").
- Utilize word length: Always start by counting the available spaces in the grid. This immediately narrows down possibilities for "stiffen" to words like SET, FIRM, or HARDEN, based on their length.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'stiffen' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'stiffen' usually refers to making something rigid, firm, hard, or less flexible. Common synonyms include harden, set, brace, firm, or tauten. The context of the surrounding letters often helps narrow down the exact answer.
Are there different ways 'stiffen' can be clued?
Yes, 'stiffen' can appear in various contexts. It could refer to a physical change (e.g., 'Make jelly set'), a metaphorical one (e.g., 'Stiffen one's resolve'), or even a process (e.g., 'Prepare a collar'). Always consider the nuance of the clue.
How can I quickly find answers for 'stiffen' clues?
Start by identifying the number of letters. Then, think of common synonyms that fit that length. If unsure, check online crossword solvers or dictionaries that provide word definitions and synonyms, like Crosswordanswer.co.uk, to cross-reference your ideas.