trunk crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! You're looking for solutions to the popular crossword clue "trunk crossword puzzle clue". Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, carefully categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "trunk crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BOLE: The main stem of a tree, especially one that is large and stately.
BOOT: In British English, the storage compartment at the back of a car.
5 Letters
CHEST: A strong box, typically made of wood, used for storage or transport, often with a hinged lid.
TORSO: The human body excluding the head, neck, and limbs; the main part of the body.
6 Letters
SHORTS: Short trousers, often worn for sports or as swim attire (swim trunks).
7 Letters
LUGGAGE: Suitcases or other bags used for carrying personal belongings when traveling, often stored in a trunk.
9 Letters
PROBOSCIS: The long, flexible snout of an elephant, which is also commonly referred to as its trunk.
More About "trunk crossword puzzle clue"
The word "trunk" is a classic example of a homograph that frequently appears in crosswords due to its multiple meanings. From the sturdy base of a tree to the elongated nose of an elephant, or the storage space in your car, the clue "trunk" can lead to a wide array of answers depending on the context provided by other clues in the puzzle. This versatility makes it both a challenging and rewarding clue for solvers.
Crossword compilers love such words because they test a solver's vocabulary breadth and their ability to think creatively about word associations. When faced with "trunk," always consider the letter count first, then any specific descriptors in the clue (e.g., "African animal's feature" or "wooden container"), and finally, the intersecting letters from other solved clues to narrow down the possibilities.
Understanding the different facets of "trunk" not only helps with this specific clue but also builds a stronger foundation for tackling other polysemous words in future puzzles. It highlights the importance of semantic flexibility in crossword solving.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuances: For words like "trunk" with multiple meanings, pay close attention to any additional words in the clue. Is it "elephant's trunk" or "tree's trunk"? This specificity is key.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are your most reliable guide to confirming the correct "trunk" answer among its many possibilities.
- Consider British vs. American English: Some answers, like BOOT for a car's trunk, are specific to certain dialects. Be aware of these regional variations, which can often be indicated by the puzzle's origin or other clues.
- Think About Word Length: The required letter count is always your first filter. If you have "trunk" and need a 4-letter word, you immediately narrow down options like PROBOSCIS.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does 'trunk' have so many different crossword answers?
The word 'trunk' is polysemous, meaning it has multiple distinct meanings (e.g., part of a tree, an elephant's nose, a storage box, a car compartment, a body part, swim attire). Crossword setters leverage these various meanings to create diverse clues and require solvers to consider context.
How can I determine the correct 'trunk' answer in a crossword?
To find the right answer, consider the number of letters required, any intersecting letters from other clues, and the overall theme or specific phrasing of the clue. For example, 'elephant's feature' points to PROBOSCIS, while 'car storage (UK)' suggests BOOT.
Are there common synonyms for 'trunk' used in crosswords?
Yes, depending on the context: BOLE or STEM for a tree; CHEST or COFFER for a container; TORSO for the body; BOOT (UK) for a car; and PROBOSCIS for an elephant's trunk. SHORTS or BOXERS might appear for clothing.