bristling crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "bristling crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. No more guessing – get the exact solution you need, fast!
Solutions for "bristling crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
ERECT: Standing stiffly upright, often used to describe hair or feathers standing on end.
SPIKY: Covered with or having sharp, pointed projections, much like bristles.
ANGRY: Displaying a strong feeling of annoyance or hostility, sometimes accompanied by a physical 'bristling' or hackles raising.
More About "bristling crossword clue"
"Bristling" is a versatile word that can appear in crosswords with several nuances. Primarily, it describes something standing up stiffly, like hair on an agitated animal or the sharp points of a brush. This literal interpretation often leads to answers like ERECT or SPIKY, focusing on the physical state of being upright or pointed.
However, "bristling" can also be used metaphorically to describe a person's reaction or demeanor. When someone is "bristling with anger" or "bristling at a remark," it means they are showing signs of irritation, hostility, or defensiveness. This figurative sense explains why ANGRY can be a valid solution, capturing the emotional state implied by the clue.
Understanding these dual meanings – the physical and the metaphorical – is key to tackling "bristling" clues in crosswords. Always consider the context of the puzzle and any intersecting letters you've already filled in to pinpoint which interpretation the puzzle setter intended.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options significantly, especially for clues like "bristling" with multiple possibilities.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think broadly about words related to "bristling" and also their opposites. Sometimes a clue might be a clever twist or a double negative.
- Look at Surrounding Clues: The letters from intersecting words are your best friends. They provide concrete hints and eliminate incorrect answers, guiding you to the precise word.
- Think Beyond the Literal: As seen with "bristling," many crossword clues have metaphorical or idiomatic meanings. If a direct synonym doesn't fit, consider a more abstract interpretation.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bristling' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'bristling' can refer to something standing on end (like hair or fur), being covered with sharp points (spiky), or showing a sudden display of anger or irritation. The specific answer depends on the letter count and surrounding letters.
Why are there multiple answers for 'bristling crossword clue'?
Crossword clues often have multiple valid answers because words can have several synonyms or related meanings. Puzzle setters use these ambiguities to make puzzles challenging. The correct answer is determined by how it fits with the rest of the grid.
How can I find the correct 'bristling' answer in my puzzle?
To find the correct answer, cross-reference the number of letters with the available space in your puzzle. Then, use any already-filled-in intersecting letters to eliminate options and identify the word that fits perfectly.