top banana crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues. Below, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "top banana crossword clue", sorted by letter count to help you find the perfect fit for your puzzle.
Solutions for "top banana crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BOSS: A common and straightforward term for the head of an organization or group, fitting the 'top banana' description perfectly.
5 Letters
CHIEF: Refers to the leader or head of a tribe, clan, or organization, aligning with the concept of the most important person.
6 Letters
LEADER: The most direct synonym for someone in charge or at the forefront, fitting 'top banana' perfectly as the one who leads.
7 Letters
KINGPIN: An informal term for the most important person in a group or undertaking, often implying a central, pivotal role.
9 Letters
EXECUTIVE: A person with senior managerial responsibility in a business organization, a formal term for the 'top banana' in a corporate setting.
More About "top banana crossword clue"
"Top banana" is a vibrant idiomatic expression that often finds its way into crossword puzzles due to its vivid imagery and clear meaning. It denotes the most important person in a group or situation, the leader, the boss, or the chief. Originating from American slang, possibly from the entertainment industry, where the "top banana" was the star performer, the phrase conveys a sense of hierarchy and prominence.
When you encounter "top banana" in a crossword, the setter is typically looking for a synonym for 'leader' or 'main person'. The challenge often lies in matching the correct synonym to the available letter count and the crossing letters from other clues. While common answers like BOSS, CHIEF, or LEADER are frequent, more specific or nuanced synonyms like KINGPIN or EXECUTIVE might appear, requiring a broader vocabulary or context clues.
Understanding the idiomatic nature of such clues is key to successful crossword solving. It's not about literal bananas, but about metaphorical standing and influence. This type of clue tests not just your vocabulary but also your grasp of common English idioms and their corresponding concise equivalents.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters provided in the clue. This immediately narrows down your potential answers for "top banana."
- Think of Synonyms: Brainstorm various words that mean 'leader,' 'boss,' 'most important person.' Don't limit yourself to just one or two obvious choices.
- Check Crossings: Utilize the letters from intersecting words. Even one correct crossing letter can turn a vague possibility into a certain answer for a clue like "top banana."
- Look for Nuance: Sometimes the puzzle's theme or other clues might hint if the "top banana" is a formal leader (like EXECUTIVE) or an informal one (like KINGPIN).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'top banana' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'top banana' refers to the most important person, the leader, or the one in charge. Common answers include synonyms like BOSS, CHIEF, LEADER, or KINGPIN, depending on the number of letters required.
Are there common letter counts for 'top banana' answers?
Yes, answers for 'top banana' often fall into popular crossword lengths. For example, BOSS (4 letters), CHIEF (5 letters), LEADER (6 letters), and KINGPIN (7 letters) are frequently seen solutions. Longer answers like EXECUTIVE (9 letters) can also appear.
How can I deduce 'top banana' if I'm stuck?
If you're stuck, consider the number of letters you need. Think of synonyms for 'leader,' 'boss,' or 'main person.' Also, check crossing letters from other clues, as these can narrow down the possibilities significantly. Sometimes, clues might hint at a more informal (like KINGPIN) or formal (like EXECUTIVE) 'top banana'.