whets crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "whets crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle. Whether it's about sharpening a blade or stimulating an appetite, we have the answers you need.
Solutions for "whets crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
HONES: To sharpen (a blade or tool); to perfect or refine (a skill).
GOADS: To provoke or annoy (someone) so as to stimulate some action or reaction.
6 Letters
STROPS: To sharpen (a razor or knife) on a strop.
7 Letters
INCITES: To encourage or stir up (violent or unlawful behavior or a feeling).
8 Letters
SHARPENS: To make or become sharp.
More About "whets crossword clue"
The word "whets" is a versatile term often used in crosswords due to its dual meanings. Primarily, it refers to the act of sharpening a tool or blade, like 'hones' or 'sharpens'. This meaning is straightforward and commonly appears in clues related to cutlery, woodworking, or even metaphorical sharpening of skills.
However, "whets" also carries the meaning of stimulating or exciting, particularly an appetite, desire, or interest. Clues using this sense might lead to answers like 'incites' or 'goads'. This duality makes 'whets' a popular choice for crossword setters, as it allows for clever wordplay and can sometimes trick solvers into thinking of only one meaning.
Understanding both aspects of 'whets' is key to successfully solving related clues. Always consider the context of the puzzle, any thematic elements, and especially the number of letters to pinpoint the correct interpretation and answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: For clues like "whets" that have multiple meanings, always think beyond the obvious. Puzzles often rely on less common or metaphorical interpretations.
- Check Letter Count First: Before diving into definitions, always look at the number of letters required. This immediately narrows down your options significantly.
- Utilize Crossing Letters: The most powerful tool in crossword solving is intersecting words. Fill in any letters you can from perpendicular clues, as these are invaluable hints for the word you're stuck on.
- Think of Synonyms: If a direct answer isn't coming to mind, brainstorm synonyms for the clue word. Sometimes, a slightly different phrasing or a less common synonym is the intended answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'whets' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'whets' typically refers to sharpening (like a knife) or stimulating/exciting (like an appetite or interest). Both meanings are common and can lead to different answers depending on the clue's specific nuance and the letter count.
Are there common synonyms for 'whets' that appear in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include HONES, SHARPENS, STROPS (for sharpening), and GOADS, INCITES, AROUSES, STIMULATES (for the stimulating sense). The exact answer will depend on the puzzle's specific wordplay and the number of letters required.
How do I determine the correct length for 'whets' in a crossword puzzle?
To determine the correct length, first look at the number of blanks or boxes provided in the puzzle. Then, cross-reference with any intersecting words you've already solved. These crossing letters are crucial for narrowing down the possibilities and confirming the answer's length and spelling.