virago crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "virago crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SHREW: A pejorative term for a woman regarded as noisy, ill-tempered, or bossy.
HARPY: In Greek mythology, a rapacious monster, often depicted as a bird with a human face. Figuratively, a cruel, grasping woman.
6 Letters
AMAZON: A member of a legendary race of female warriors in Scythia. Figuratively, a tall, strong, aggressive woman.
9 Letters
TERMIGANT: A harsh-tempered or overbearing woman.
More About "virago crossword clue"
The term "virago" originates from Latin, meaning "man-like" or "heroic woman." Historically, it could describe a woman with masculine virtues or physical prowess, often admired. However, over time, its connotation shifted, becoming more pejorative, signifying a loud, aggressive, or domineering woman. This duality makes "virago" a fascinating word in crosswords, often pointing to answers that reflect either the strength or the negative stereotype associated with it. Understanding this historical context helps in discerning the intended answer from various possible synonyms.
In crosswords, "virago" frequently appears as a clue for words like "shrew," "harpy," "amazon," or "termagant." The specific answer usually depends on the number of letters required and the overall theme of the puzzle. Puzzle constructors leverage the word's complex meaning, sometimes hinting at its archaic, more positive sense, but more often at its modern, derogatory usage. Recognizing common crossword patterns and knowing the various synonyms for "virago" across different lengths is key to solving these clues effectively.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: Always consider the surrounding clues and any given letters to narrow down possibilities. Sometimes, a seemingly perfect answer might not fit the overall puzzle.
- Check Word Length: The number of letters is your most valuable hint. If "virago" is the clue, "SHREW" (5 letters) is different from "AMAZON" (6 letters).
- Think Synonyms & Antonyms: Crossword clues often rely on direct synonyms, but sometimes they use antonyms (e.g., "opposite of peace" for "war") or words related through a concept.
- Consider Homophones/Puns: Advanced clues might involve wordplay, homophones, or puns. "Virago" is fairly straightforward, but always be alert for these if a clue seems too simple or too obscure.
- Use a Crossword Solver (Wisely): If stuck, online solvers can provide options. However, try to understand why an answer fits to improve your own solving skills.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the origin of the word "virago"?
"Virago" comes from the Latin word "vir," meaning "man." It originally referred to a woman with heroic qualities or strength, resembling a man in terms of courage or virtue.
Why does "virago" often have a negative meaning in modern English?
Over time, the word's connotation shifted. While initially positive, it evolved to describe a woman perceived as loud, aggressive, or overbearing, often in a derogatory sense, particularly by the 17th century.
Are there other common crossword clues similar to "virago"?
Yes, clues like "scolding woman," "belligerent female," "harridan," or "shrewish woman" often lead to similar answers such as SHREW, TERMIGANT, or HARPY.