beams crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on "beams crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "beams crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
RAYS: Strips of light, such as sunbeams. Can also refer to a happy, shining look.
5 Letters
GLOWS: To emit light, especially a steady, soft light. Implies a gentle emission of light or warmth.
6 Letters
SHINES: To emit or reflect light; to be bright or luminous. Often associated with bright light or excellent performance.
SMILES: To form one's features into a pleased, kind, or amused expression, often with the corners of the mouth turned up. As in "beams with joy."
7 Letters
GIRDERS: Large iron or steel beams or compound structures used for building bridges and the framework of large buildings. A common structural interpretation of 'beams'.
8 Letters
RADIATES: To emit energy, especially light or heat, in the form of rays or waves. Can also mean to show a strong emotion or quality.
More About "beams crossword clue"
"Beams" is a highly versatile word in the English language, making it a popular and sometimes tricky clue in crosswords. Its primary meanings revolve around either a shaft of light or a structural support in architecture. When clued in puzzles, it's essential to consider the context of the surrounding words or the puzzle's theme to determine which definition is intended.
Beyond light and structure, "beams" can also describe a person's expression, particularly when they "beam with joy," implying a wide, radiant smile. This variety of meanings means that possible answers can range from words like RAYS and GLOWS for light, to GIRDERS for construction, or SMILES for expression. Recognizing these different facets is key to successfully cracking this clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For clues like "beams" with several possible interpretations (light, structure, expression), always consider which definition fits the available letters and surrounding words best.
- Check Cross-References: If a clue feels ambiguous, look at the intersecting words. Sometimes, a definite letter from another answer will reveal the correct interpretation of the "beams" clue.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Even if the direct answer isn't obvious, thinking about synonyms (e.g., for "beams" meaning "shines," think GLOWS, RADIATES) or even antonyms (if the clue were "lack of beams") can open up new possibilities.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many letters are in the shortest answer for 'beams'?
The shortest common answer for 'beams' is 'RAYS', which has 4 letters.
Can 'beams' refer to both light and structural elements in crosswords?
Yes, 'beams' is a versatile crossword clue. It can refer to rays of light (e.g., SUNBEAMS), structural supports (like wooden or steel girders), or even a happy facial expression (as in 'beams with joy'). The context of other clues in the puzzle often helps narrow down the intended meaning.
What's a common synonym for 'beams' when it means to smile brightly?
When 'beams' refers to a bright smile, common crossword answers or synonyms include 'SMILES' or 'GRINS'.