whetstone crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue 'whetstone crossword clue', you've come to the right place. We provide comprehensive answers and explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "whetstone crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HONE: To sharpen or make more effective, often with a whetstone.
5 Letters
STROP: A strip of leather or canvas used for sharpening razors, performing a similar function to a whetstone.
7 Letters
GRINDER: A machine or tool for grinding or sharpening, which can include the action of a whetstone.
9 Letters
SHARPENER: A device or tool used for making something sharp, precisely what a whetstone is.
More About "whetstone crossword clue"
A whetstone is an indispensable tool for anyone who relies on sharp edges, from professional chefs and carpenters to outdoor enthusiasts. These abrasive stones come in various forms, including waterstones and oilstones, each requiring a specific lubricant for optimal performance. Their primary purpose is to refine the edge of blades, removing microscopic burrs and aligning the steel to create a keen cutting surface. Understanding the different types and their applications can significantly enhance a tool's lifespan and effectiveness.
In crosswords, 'whetstone' often appears as a straightforward clue, but it can also be clued indirectly through its synonyms or associated actions. Words like 'hone,' 'grind,' 'sharpen,' or even the tool itself, are common answers. The key to solving such clues is to consider the context of the puzzle, the number of letters provided, and any intersecting words that might offer additional hints.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms: For clues like 'whetstone,' think of actions associated with it (hone, sharpen, grind) or similar tools (strop, grinder) to find the right fit.
- Match letter count: Always cross-reference your potential answer with the exact number of letters required by the puzzle. This is your primary constraint.
- Check intersecting words: Use letters from already-solved intersecting clues to narrow down possibilities. If a word starts with 'H' and is 4 letters long, 'HONE' becomes a strong candidate.
- Think functionally: If the clue describes an object, consider its primary function or purpose, as setters often use this to create clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a whetstone used for?
A whetstone is a block of abrasive material used to sharpen or hone the edges of steel tools and implements, such as knives, scissors, chisels, and razors. The term 'whet' means to sharpen, typically by rubbing on a stone.
Are all whetstones the same?
No, whetstones come in various types, materials, and grit sizes. They can be natural or synthetic, and may require water or oil as a lubricant. Different grit sizes are used for different stages of sharpening, from repairing a dull edge to refining a super-fine one.
How do crossword setters clue 'whetstone'?
Crossword setters often clue 'whetstone' by focusing on its function (e.g., 'sharpening tool', 'knife sharpener', 'honing device'), its material (e.g., 'abrasive block'), or by using synonyms for sharpening actions (e.g., 'hone', 'grind', 'strop'). They might also refer to it indirectly as a 'barber's tool' or 'kitchen aid'.