tavern crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. Here you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "tavern crossword clue", ensuring you can complete your puzzle with ease and confidence.
Solutions for "tavern crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PUB: A common British establishment for drinks.
INN: Historically, a place providing lodging and refreshment for travelers.
BAR: A counter where drinks are served, or the establishment itself.
6 Letters
SALOON: A type of bar, often associated with the American Old West.
7 Letters
GINMILL: An informal term for a tavern or bar, especially a disreputable one.
8 Letters
ALEHOUSE: An older term for a public house where ale is primarily sold.
HOSTELRY: A more archaic term for an inn or hotel.
9 Letters
SPEAKEASY: An illicit liquor store or nightclub during Prohibition.
More About "tavern crossword clue"
The term 'tavern' carries a rich history, evolving through centuries from basic inns offering rest to weary travelers to the diverse establishments we know today. In crosswords, 'tavern' is a favourite clue due to its many synonyms, each evoking a slightly different era, geographical location, or type of establishment.
From the quaint British 'pub' to the rugged Old West 'saloon' or the illicit 'speakeasy' of the Prohibition era, these words add flavour and challenge to puzzles. Understanding the nuances of each term can often be the key to cracking the clue, especially when other wordplay elements are involved.
Crossword constructors frequently use 'tavern' or its synonyms to test a solver's vocabulary depth and historical knowledge of common places. By providing a wide range of answers and their contexts, we aim to equip you with all the knowledge needed for your next puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Locale: If the clue hints at a specific region (e.g., "British watering hole"), lean towards answers like PUB. If it evokes the American frontier, SALOON might be the fit.
- Look for Historical Context: Words like ALEHOUSE or HOSTELRY often suggest an older or more formal usage. Clues mentioning "Prohibition era" strongly point to SPEAKEASY.
- Match the Tone: Some 'tavern' synonyms carry a specific connotation. GINMILL, for example, often implies a less reputable establishment, which might be hinted at in the clue's tone.
- Cross-Reference: Always use intersecting letters from other clues. Even if you're stuck on 'tavern', solving a perpendicular clue might reveal a letter that narrows down your options considerably.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there so many words for 'tavern' in crosswords?
The English language has a rich history with various terms evolving for establishments serving drinks and lodging. Crossword constructors love this variety as it provides many synonyms and different letter lengths to fit their grids, making clues like 'tavern' versatile.
What's the difference between a 'pub' and an 'inn'?
Historically, an 'inn' primarily offered lodging for travelers, along with food and drink. A 'pub' (public house) traditionally focused more on serving alcoholic beverages to a local clientele, though many modern pubs also serve food. The distinction can be blurred today, but crosswords often lean on the historical definitions.
How can I guess the right 'tavern' word for my puzzle?
Beyond matching letter count, consider the crossword's theme (e.g., historical, British, American West), the surrounding letters, and the specific phrasing of the clue. Clues mentioning 'old' or 'archaic' might point to words like 'alehouse' or 'hostelry', while a modern or casual tone might suggest 'bar' or 'pub'.