water nymph crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! Below you'll find the most common and accurate solutions for the crossword clue "water nymph." We provide answers across all possible letter counts, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword knowledge.
Solutions for "water nymph crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
NAIAD: A mythological water nymph typically associated with freshwater sources like springs, rivers, and lakes.
More About "water nymph crossword clue"
The term "water nymph" brings to mind enchanting figures from classical mythology, embodying the spirit and beauty of various water bodies. In Greek and Roman myths, these nymphs were minor female deities or spirits, often depicted as young, beautiful maidens.
Different types of water nymphs existed, each linked to a specific aquatic domain. For instance, Naiads presided over freshwater springs, rivers, and lakes; Nereids were sea nymphs, daughters of the sea god Nereus; and Oceanids were daughters of the Titan Oceanus, associated with the vast outer sea. These figures frequently appeared in ancient literature and art, symbolizing the life-giving and sometimes dangerous aspects of water.
In crosswords, clues like "water nymph" often point directly to specific mythological terms, with NAIAD being the most common and direct answer, especially when a shorter word length is required. Understanding these mythological distinctions can be key to solving such puzzles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Mythology Check: When a clue relates to mythological creatures or figures, immediately consider common names associated with that domain. For "water nymph," names like NAIAD, NEREID, or UNDINE are strong candidates.
- Contextual Clues: Pay attention to any additional words in the clue that might narrow down the specific type of nymph (e.g., "spring nymph" strongly suggests NAIAD).
- Letter Count is King: Always count the letters of your potential answer and compare it to the number of boxes provided in the grid. This is the quickest way to confirm or rule out a word.
- Cross-Reference: Use intersecting letters from other solved clues to confirm your "water nymph" answer. If a letter doesn't fit, your proposed answer is likely incorrect.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a water nymph?
A water nymph is a mythological spirit or deity associated with bodies of water such as rivers, lakes, springs, and oceans. They are often depicted as beautiful young women and are common figures in ancient folklore and mythology.
Are there different kinds of water nymphs?
Yes, various types of water nymphs exist in mythology, classified by their habitat or specific association. Examples include Naiads (freshwater springs, rivers, lakes), Nereids (sea nymphs, daughters of Nereus), Oceanids (daughters of Oceanus), and Limnades (lake nymphs).
How do crossword setters clue mythological figures?
Crossword setters often clue mythological figures by their characteristics, domain, common stories, or family connections. For 'water nymph,' clues might specify the type (e.g., 'spring nymph'), or use general descriptions that point to a well-known figure like NAIAD, requiring knowledge of classical mythology.