stopper crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "stopper crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "stopper crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
CAP: A small cover or lid, often used to close bottles or containers.
LID: A movable cover for the top of a container.
4 Letters
CORK: A buoyant material, often used as a bottle stopper, especially for wine.
PLUG: A piece of material used to stop a hole or block a passage.
BUNG: A stopper for a hole in a cask or barrel.
5 Letters
CHOKE: To stop the flow or passage of something, often violently or suddenly.
7 Letters
BARRIER: An obstruction that prevents movement or access.
8 Letters
OBSTACLE: Something that blocks or stands in the way, hindering progress.
9 Letters
HINDRANCE: Something that prevents or delays progress.
11 Letters
OBSTRUCTION: An act or instance of obstructing, or something that obstructs.
More About "stopper crossword clue"
A stopper, in its essence, is something that stops. This seemingly simple definition opens up a wide array of possibilities in the world of crosswords, making "stopper" a versatile and sometimes tricky clue. Depending on the context, a stopper could refer to a physical object like a bottle cork or a drain plug. It might also describe an action, such as an athlete who "stops" an opponent's attack, or a metaphorical impediment, like an "obstacle" to progress. The key to solving "stopper" clues often lies in considering the implied usage.
Crossword setters frequently play on the multiple meanings of words. For "stopper," this could mean looking for synonyms related to closing (like CAP or LID), blocking (like DAM or BARRIER), or even preventing motion (like BRAKE). The length of the answer is crucial here, as a three-letter LID is very different from an eleven-letter OBSTRUCTION. Always consider the surrounding letters if you have them, as they can quickly narrow down the possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: For a clue like "stopper," think of words that mean to stop, block, or close, but also consider what the opposite of stopping might be if the clue has a negative connotation.
- Check Word Lengths First: Before even thinking of answers, always look at the number of boxes provided. This is your most powerful filter. A five-letter word for "stopper" immediately eliminates a three-letter CAP or an eight-letter OBSTACLE.
- Look for Double Meanings: Many crossword clues rely on wordplay. A "stopper" could be a literal object, an action, or even a person (like a "showstopper"). Ponder the different ways the word can be interpreted.
- Utilize Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting words to narrow down possibilities. If your "stopper" answer needs to fit an 'R' in the third position, you can quickly eliminate many words.
- Think About the Puzzle's Theme: While not always obvious, some puzzles have a subtle theme that might influence answers. If other clues are related to household items, a PLUG or CORK might be more likely than OBSTACLE.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common meaning of "stopper" in crosswords?
Stopper most commonly refers to a device or object used to close an opening, such as a bottle or a drain. Examples include CORK, PLUG, or CAP. However, it can also refer to something that blocks or impedes.
How do I know if the "stopper" clue refers to a physical object or an abstract concept?
The word length is often the first hint. Shorter answers like CAP or LID usually refer to physical objects. Longer answers like OBSTACLE, HINDRANCE, or OBSTRUCTION often point to more abstract or figurative meanings of something that stops progress. The surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme might also provide context.
Are there any common tricks with "stopper" clues?
Yes, setters love to use synonyms for "stopper" that aren't immediately obvious, or they might use it in a phrase. For instance, "showstopper" implies something impressive, not just a literal plug. Always consider verbs that mean to stop (e.g., HALT, CHOKE) as potential answers if the clue implies an action.