captivate crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "captivate," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with explanations to help you complete your puzzle and deepen your vocabulary.
Solutions for "captivate crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
CHARM: To delight greatly; to attract or please intensely. Often used in crosswords as a direct synonym for captivate.
6 Letters
ENGAGE: To attract and hold the attention or interest of. A strong fit when referring to holding someone's interest.
8 Letters
ENTHRALL: To hold completely absorbed, fascinated, or spellbound. This word perfectly captures the essence of being captivated.
9 Letters
FASCINATE: To attract the strong attention and interest of (someone); charm. A very common and direct synonym for captivate.
More About "captivate crossword"
The clue "captivate" is a classic in crossword puzzles, often appearing in various forms to test solvers' understanding of synonyms related to attraction, enchantment, and holding attention. It's a versatile verb that can apply to a person's presence, a performance, a story, or even an idea. When you encounter this clue, think broadly about words that imply a strong, almost magnetic pull on someone's interest or emotions.
Common answers for "captivate" tend to fall into categories of charming, enchanting, or holding someone spellbound. The challenge often lies in matching the exact nuance and, crucially, the letter count to the grid. Pay attention to any other intersecting words or clues, as they can provide vital context and confirm the correct solution, especially when multiple synonyms are possible.
Understanding the root meaning of 'captivate' — which comes from the Latin 'captivare,' meaning 'to take captive' — can sometimes help, as it implies a powerful, almost involuntary hold. This deeper understanding can unlock less obvious but equally valid synonyms used by clever puzzle constructors.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always look at the surrounding clues. If "captivate" is accompanied by clues about art or performance, words like "enthrall" or "mesmerize" might be more fitting than "charm" which can be more personal.
- Check Letter Count First: Before brainstorming words, count the empty squares. This immediately narrows down your options dramatically. For "captivate," you might consider 5-letter, 6-letter, 8-letter, 9-letter, or 10-letter words.
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Some words have multiple meanings. "Engage," for example, can mean to captivate or to participate. Be open to less obvious synonyms that still fit the core concept of holding attention.
- Use Cross-References: If you're stuck, try solving intersecting clues first. The letters filled in from other answers can reveal crucial letters for "captivate," making the solution much clearer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'captivate' mean in a crossword context?
In a crossword puzzle, 'captivate' typically refers to actions or states of intensely attracting or holding someone's attention, interest, or affection. Common synonyms used as answers include 'enthrall,' 'charm,' 'mesmerize,' 'engage,' and 'fascinate.' The key is to find a word that conveys a powerful sense of attraction or spellbinding effect.
How can I deduce the correct length for 'captivate' answers?
To deduce the correct answer length, always check the number of dashes or empty squares provided in the crossword grid for that clue. The length of the space directly corresponds to the number of letters in the required answer. If multiple words fit, the length is your most crucial hint.
Are there common tricks related to 'captivate' in crosswords?
Crossword setters often use 'captivate' to test your vocabulary for synonyms that evoke strong emotional or intellectual attraction. Look out for synonyms that might be less common or have a slightly different nuance (e.g., 'ravish,' 'beguile'). Also, consider if the clue is part of a larger phrase or requires a verb tense change (e.g., 'captivated' vs. 'captivating').