beast of burden crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "beast of burden," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of solutions, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "beast of burden crossword clue" by Letter Count
2 Letters
OX: A powerful bovine often used for plowing or pulling carts.
3 Letters
ASS: Also known as a donkey, a sturdy animal historically used for transport and labor.
YAK: A long-haired bovine native to the Himalayas, used for transport in mountainous regions.
4 Letters
MULE: A hybrid offspring of a male donkey and a female horse, known for its strength and endurance.
5 Letters
CAMEL: A large desert mammal with a hump, famous for carrying loads across arid lands.
LLAMA: A domesticated South American camelid, used as a pack animal in the Andes mountains.
6 Letters
DONKEY: A domesticated hoofed mammal of the horse family, commonly used as a pack animal and for riding.
8 Letters
ELEPHANT: A large mammal often trained in Asia for logging, heavy lifting, and ceremonial purposes.
More About "beast of burden crossword clue"
The term "beast of burden" refers to any animal that is trained or used to carry goods, pull vehicles, or perform other heavy labor for humans. These animals have been integral to human civilization for millennia, facilitating trade, agriculture, and transportation across diverse terrains and climates. From the arid deserts traversed by camels to the mountainous paths where llamas and yaks prove invaluable, beasts of burden highlight the ingenuity and adaptability of both humans and animals.
In crossword puzzles, clues like "beast of burden" often require a broad understanding of zoology and geography. While common answers like 'OX' or 'DONKEY' might immediately come to mind, seasoned puzzlers know to consider less obvious but equally valid options like 'YAK' or 'LLAMA', depending on the available letter count and crossing letters. The clue is a test of vocabulary and general knowledge about the diverse roles animals play in human society.
Understanding the context—whether the puzzle hints at a specific region, a type of terrain, or a particular historical use—can significantly narrow down the possibilities. This common clue serves as a great example of how crosswords blend general knowledge with linguistic precision, making the solution both satisfying and educational.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Geographic Context: If the clue implies a specific region (e.g., "Andean beast of burden"), think about animals native to that area (e.g., LLAMA).
- Think Beyond the Obvious: While horses and donkeys are classic beasts of burden, remember less common ones like YAK, CAMEL, or even ELEPHANT, especially for longer answers.
- Utilize Letter Count: Always check the number of letters required. This is often the most critical hint, helping you eliminate many potential answers immediately.
- Check Crossing Letters: The letters you already have from intersecting words are your best friends. Use them to confirm or rule out potential solutions.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a beast of burden?
A beast of burden is an animal (like an ox, horse, donkey, or camel) that is trained to carry heavy loads, pull vehicles, or perform other forms of labor, thereby assisting human activities.
Why are some crossword answers for 'beast of burden' so short?
Crosswords often use the most common, concise names for these animals. Answers like 'OX', 'ASS', or 'YAK' are short, widely recognized, and fit into common crossword grid patterns efficiently.
How can I improve my chances of solving 'beast of burden' clues?
To solve 'beast of burden' clues, think broadly about animals used for work across various cultures and terrains. Consider animals like llamas, yaks, or elephants, not just the more common horses or donkeys. Always check the letter count and any crossing letters you already have to narrow down possibilities.