water lilies crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "water lilies" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "water lilies crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
NYMPHEA: This is the botanical genus name for true water lilies, a common answer in natural history or botany-themed crosswords.
5 Letters
LOTUS: While botanically distinct, 'lotus' is often used interchangeably or as a broader term for aquatic flowering plants, making it a possible answer in some crossword contexts.
4 Letters
PADS: Refers specifically to the floating leaves of water lilies, which are a very distinctive feature and a common shorter answer.
More About "water lilies crossword clue"
Water lilies are a group of beautiful aquatic plants renowned for their vibrant, often fragrant flowers and large, circular floating leaves, commonly known as 'pads'. They belong to the family Nymphaeaceae and are a staple in many ponds, lakes, and calm waterways around the world, adding significant aesthetic value and supporting aquatic ecosystems.
The term "water lilies" most commonly refers to plants from the genus Nymphaea, which includes both hardy and tropical varieties. In crosswords, clues about water lilies often test knowledge of their common names, specific parts (like "pads" for leaves), or sometimes their scientific classification. Occasionally, 'lotus' may appear as an answer, although botanically, lotuses (genus Nelumbo) are distinct from true water lilies, sharing only a general aquatic resemblance.
Understanding the different facets of water lilies – from their botanical names to their common features – can be crucial for deciphering various crossword clues. Crossword setters love to play on these subtle distinctions or broad associations, making it important for solvers to consider all possibilities and the context of the puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Specificity: For clues like "water lilies," consider if the puzzle is looking for a general term (e.g., LOTUS, PADS), or a more precise botanical name (e.g., NYMPHEA). The surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme might offer hints.
- Check Letter Count: Always count the available spaces. This is the fastest way to eliminate impossible answers and narrow down your choices, especially when multiple words could fit the general meaning.
- Consider Synonyms and Related Concepts: Crosswords often use synonyms, antonyms, or closely related concepts. For "water lilies," think about their parts (pads, blooms), their habitat (pond, aquatic), or cultural significance.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck, try to solve intersecting clues first. The letters filled in from other answers can provide crucial starting points for the word you're struggling with.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are water lilies?
Water lilies are beautiful aquatic plants belonging to the family Nymphaeaceae. They are characterized by their large, flat, floating leaves (pads) and stunning flowers that float on or emerge from the water surface. They are found in calm, shallow waters in temperate and tropical regions worldwide.
Why might 'Lotus' be an answer for 'water lilies'?
While water lilies (Nymphaea) and lotuses (Nelumbo) are different genera, they both belong to the order Nymphaeales and share visual similarities, being large aquatic flowering plants. In general knowledge crosswords, 'lotus' can sometimes be used as a more accessible or broader term for a water lily-like plant, especially when specific botanical distinction isn't required by the clue.
How can I improve my crossword-solving skills?
Consistent practice is key! Start with easier puzzles and gradually challenge yourself. Pay attention to clue types (e.g., definitions, puns, anagrams). Learn common crosswordese words and abbreviations, and don't be afraid to use a dictionary or thesaurus. Over time, you'll develop a sense for common answer patterns and tricky clue phrasing.