whatchamacallit crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're stuck on the "whatchamacallit" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you across the finish line.
Solutions for "whatchamacallit crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
THING: A generic term used when the specific name of an object is unknown or temporarily forgotten, perfectly fitting the 'whatchamacallit' concept.
6 Letters
DOODAD: An informal term for a small object, especially one whose name the speaker does not know or cannot recall, a common synonym for 'whatchamacallit'.
GADGET: A small mechanical or electronic device or tool, often used loosely to describe any unnamed item, aligning with the informal nature of 'whatchamacallit'.
11 Letters
THINGAMABOB: A placeholder noun for an object whose name is unknown or temporarily forgotten, serving as a direct and often playful synonym for 'whatchamacallit'.
CONTRAPTION: A machine or device that appears strange or complicated and is often badly made or unsafe, sometimes used informally to refer to any unnamed device.
More About "whatchamacallit crossword clue"
"Whatchamacallit" is a classic example of a crossword clue that relies on informal language and placeholder nouns. These types of clues test your vocabulary for common, everyday speech rather than formal definitions. They are designed to make you think about how you refer to objects when their specific names elude you or are unimportant in context.
The beauty of such clues lies in their versatility. An unknown object could be anything from a small household item to a complex piece of machinery, as long as its name isn't at the tip of your tongue. This allows for a range of possible answers, making the letter count and intersecting words crucial for pinpointing the exact solution needed for your puzzle.
Often, these clues appear in more lighthearted or colloquial puzzles, adding a touch of conversational charm to the grid. Recognizing this informal tone can often guide you towards the correct type of answer, steering you away from overly technical or formal terms.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Informal Synonyms: When you see clues like "whatchamacallit," immediately think of other placeholder terms like "thingamajig," "doohickey," "gizmo," or "whatsit." These informal words are often the answers.
- Check Intersecting Letters: The most reliable way to confirm or deduce an answer for a clue with multiple possibilities like this is to fill in intersecting words first. The letters that cross your "whatchamacallit" answer will quickly narrow down the options.
- Pay Attention to Clue Tone: Some crosswords have a distinct tone – whether it's formal, humorous, or colloquial. "Whatchamacallit" signals a more informal or playful tone, which can help you anticipate the type of vocabulary expected in the answers.
- Think About Context: While "whatchamacallit" is generic, sometimes the surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can hint at whether it's referring to a small gadget or a larger, more complex item.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a 'whatchamacallit' in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'whatchamacallit' clues typically refer to placeholder words or informal terms for objects whose specific names are unknown or forgotten. Common answers often include terms like THING, DOODAD, GIZMO, or THINGAMABOB, depending on the required letter count.
How do you determine the correct answer for 'whatchamacallit'?
To find the correct answer, consider the number of letters indicated by the puzzle. Then, think of various synonyms for 'unnamed object' or 'informal device' that fit that length. Additionally, intersecting letters from other solved clues will be crucial in narrowing down the possibilities.
Are there other similar crossword clues to 'whatchamacallit'?
Yes, similar clues often include 'thingamajig', 'doohickey', 'gizmo', 'jigger', or 'whatsit'. These all point to generic or informal terms for objects, requiring solvers to recall various placeholder nouns.