What is a tidal barrier?

A tidal barrier, often referred to as a barrage, is a structure built across an estuary, river, or bay to control the movement of tides. Its primary purpose can be flood protection, generating tidal power, or maintaining water levels.

How do different terms like 'barrage' and 'dam' relate to tidal barriers in crosswords?

While a 'dam' is a general term for a barrier holding back water, 'barrage' is more specific to tidal or river control, often implying a structure with gates that can open or close. In crosswords, 'barrage' is a more precise fit for 'tidal barrier,' though context might allow for 'dam' or other related terms like 'sluice' or 'dike' if they fit the letter count and other clues.

What are common features of clues for 'tidal barrier' in crosswords?

Clues for 'tidal barrier' often refer to water control, flood prevention, estuaries, or structures that hold back the sea. They might use synonyms or descriptive phrases that point towards a large-scale engineering project or a device for regulating water flow. The number of letters is often the key to differentiating between possible answers like BARRAGE, SLUICE, or DIKE.

tidal barrier crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Searching for "tidal barrier crossword clue"? You've come to the right place. Below you'll find all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.

Solutions for "tidal barrier crossword clue" by Letter Count

3 Letters

DAM: A barrier constructed to hold back water, sometimes used to regulate tidal flow in an estuary.

4 Letters

DIKE: An embankment built to prevent flooding from the sea or a river, often serving as a coastal or tidal barrier.

WEIR: A low dam built across a river to raise the level of water upstream or regulate its flow, occasionally used in tidal contexts.

6 Letters

SLUICE: A channel or gate that controls the flow of water, often a component of a larger tidal barrier structure.

7 Letters

BARRAGE: The most precise answer, referring to a barrier placed across an estuary or river to prevent or control the flow of tides, often for flood protection or power generation.

More About "tidal barrier crossword clue"

A "tidal barrier" is a critical piece of engineering designed to manage the immense power of the ocean's tides. These structures, also known as tidal barrages, are built across estuaries or bays to protect coastal areas from flooding, generate electricity through tidal power, or maintain stable water levels for navigation and environmental purposes. They are distinct from conventional dams which typically block rivers to create reservoirs.

Understanding the nuances of terms like 'barrage', 'sluice', 'dike', and 'weir' is key to solving crosswords involving water management. While 'dam' is a more general term, 'barrage' specifically denotes a structure that regulates tidal flow, often featuring gates that open and close. Crossword constructors often use these terms interchangeably or with subtle distinctions to challenge solvers.

The construction and operation of tidal barriers can have significant environmental impacts, affecting marine ecosystems and sediment transport. However, their role in flood defense and as a source of renewable energy is increasingly vital in many coastal regions worldwide, making them a common subject in general knowledge and environmental-themed crossword clues.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Letter Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. For "tidal barrier," a 7-letter answer strongly points to BARRAGE, while shorter counts might suggest DIKE, WEIR, or DAM.
Consider Synonyms and Related Concepts: Think broadly about terms associated with water control, engineering, and coastal defense. Words like 'floodgate', 'embankment', or even 'sea wall' might be relevant depending on the exact wording of the clue.
Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the surrounding clues in a crossword can provide hints. Is there another clue related to water, electricity generation, or coastal towns? This can narrow down the possibilities.
Cross-Reference: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in from other clues to confirm or eliminate potential answers for "tidal barrier."

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a dam and a tidal barrage in a crossword context?

In crosswords, a "dam" is a general barrier that holds back water, often creating a reservoir. A "tidal barrage," while a type of dam, specifically controls the flow of tides in an estuary or bay. If the clue mentions "tide" or "estuary," "barrage" is usually the more precise answer.

Are there other common crossword answers related to water barriers?

Yes, besides BARRAGE and DAM, other common answers include WEIR (a low dam to raise water level or regulate flow), SLUICE (a gate controlling water flow), and DIKE (an embankment built to prevent flooding).

How can I determine the correct answer if multiple words fit the letter count for "tidal barrier"?

If multiple words fit the length, look for other intersecting clues to fill in letters, or consider the exact wording of the clue. A clue might specify "tidal power" (pointing to BARRAGE) versus a more general "water barrier" (which could be DIKE or DAM).