blackbird crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword puzzles! On this page, you'll find all possible solutions and detailed explanations for the clue "blackbird crossword clue," organized by letter count to help you quickly find what you're looking for.
Solutions for "blackbird crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ANI: A tropical blackbird from the cuckoo family, known for its glossy black plumage.
4 Letters
ROOK: A common European blackbird, part of the crow family, often found in large flocks.
5 Letters
MERLE: The French word for blackbird, frequently used in crosswords to add a layer of challenge.
8 Letters
STARLING: A medium-sized passerine bird with often dark, iridescent plumage, commonly forming large, noisy flocks.
More About "blackbird crossword clue"
The "blackbird crossword clue" is a classic in the world of puzzles, often surprising solvers with its diverse range of answers. While a direct 'blackbird' might seem straightforward, constructors love to use synonyms, foreign terms, or even closely related species to make you think a little harder. Answers like MERLE (French for blackbird) are particularly common, leveraging international vocabulary to test your broader knowledge.
Understanding the nuances of bird-related clues can significantly boost your crossword solving skills. Sometimes, the clue might hint at a specific type or characteristic, such as "European blackbird" for ROOK, or "tropical blackbird" for ANI. Pay close attention to any additional words in the clue as they can guide you to the precise answer needed.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and foreign words: For common animals or objects, always think about less obvious synonyms or their names in other languages, especially French or Latin.
- Check letter count carefully: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. Match the answers provided here with the empty spaces in your puzzle.
- Look for specific qualifiers: Is the clue "blackbird" or "European blackbird"? Or perhaps it hints at a behavior or habitat, which can narrow down possibilities.
- Think outside the box (literally): Crossword clues often use wordplay. Could "blackbird" refer to something entirely different, like a character or a type of aircraft, if the puzzle is themed? (Unlikely for a direct "blackbird" but good general advice).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'MERLE' a common crossword answer for 'blackbird'?
MERLE is the French word for blackbird. Crossword constructors frequently use foreign language terms or lesser-known synonyms to make clues more challenging, making 'MERLE' a very common and useful answer for this clue.
What other black-colored birds frequently appear in crossword puzzles?
Besides direct blackbirds, clues might lead to CROW, RAVEN, GRACKLE, or even certain types of ORIOLES or THRUSHES, depending on the specific nuance of the clue. Always consider birds known for their dark plumage.
Are 'crow' or 'raven' ever answers for 'blackbird' clues?
While crows and ravens are distinct from true blackbirds, their shared black coloration and commonality can sometimes make them viable answers, especially if the clue is vague or refers to a 'large black bird'. However, typically, 'blackbird' clues point to the species specifically known as blackbirds or close relatives like merles or rooks.