wash crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "wash crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the perfect solution for your puzzle.
Solutions for "wash crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MOP: To clean a floor or surface using a mop and water.
4 Letters
LAVE: An archaic or literary term for washing or bathing.
SOAK: To immerse something in liquid, often as a prelude to washing.
WIPE: To clean or dry a surface by rubbing with a cloth, which can be part of washing.
5 Letters
RINSE: To wash something with clean water, typically to remove soap or dirt.
BATHE: To immerse oneself or someone else in water for washing or relaxation.
SCOUR: To clean or brighten a surface by rubbing it hard, often with an abrasive.
SWILL: To wash something out by pouring large quantities of water into or over it.
DOUSE: To pour a liquid over; drench, often with water, implying a quick wash.
7 Letters
CLEANSE: To make something thoroughly clean or pure.
LAUNDER: To wash and iron clothes or textiles.
DETERGE: To clean, especially with a detergent, a less common but valid synonym.
More About "wash crossword clue"
The clue "wash" is a deceptively simple one in crosswords, as it has a wide range of synonyms depending on the specific context and nuance the puzzle setter intends. The act of washing can vary greatly, from cleaning a surface to purifying an object, or even the process of laundry. This breadth of meaning is what makes it a versatile and sometimes challenging clue.
When encountering "wash," consider not only the literal act but also the object being washed and the method. Are we talking about washing hands, washing clothes, washing a car, or washing away sins? Each scenario might lead to a different correct answer. The letter count provided in the puzzle is your most important hint, followed by any intersecting letters you may already have filled in.
Puzzle setters might also use "wash" in idiomatic expressions or phrasal verbs, such as "wash up" or "wash out." Always be prepared to think beyond the direct synonym and consider how the word might be used figuratively or as part of a common phrase. Reviewing the surrounding clues can often provide additional context to help you pinpoint the exact answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Nuance: For clues like "wash," think about the specific type of washing. Is it a gentle rinse, a vigorous scour, or a full laundry cycle? This can help differentiate between answers like RINSE, SCOUR, or LAUNDER.
- Check Letter Count First: Always prioritize the given letter count. This is the single most important filter for any crossword clue. If you have 5 letters, you can immediately rule out 3-letter or 7-letter options for "wash."
- Look at Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved intersecting clues to confirm or eliminate potential answers. If your 5-letter "wash" answer needs to start with 'R', then RINSE is a strong candidate, while BATHE would be ruled out.
- Think Beyond Direct Synonyms: Sometimes, the answer isn't a direct synonym but a related action or a less common word. For "wash," archaic terms like LAVE or specific actions like MOP might be the key.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'wash' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'wash' in crosswords include RINSE, BATHE, SCOUR, LAVE, MOP, CLEANSE, LAUNDER, and SWILL. The specific answer often depends on the letter count and surrounding letters in the puzzle.
How does the letter count help with 'wash' clues?
The letter count is crucial. For example, 'MOP' is a 3-letter answer, 'LAVE' is 4 letters, while 'RINSE', 'BATHE', and 'SCOUR' are 5 letters. Longer answers like 'CLEANSE' or 'LAUNDER' typically have 7 letters. Knowing the exact length helps narrow down possibilities significantly.
Are there idiomatic expressions for 'wash' in puzzles?
Yes, crosswords sometimes use idiomatic phrases or less common meanings. For 'wash', you might see clues related to 'wash up' (prepare for a meal, or clean oneself), 'wash out' (remove by washing, or fail), or 'wash over' (envelop completely). Always consider the full context of the clue.