cougar crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving tricky crossword clues! On this page, you'll find comprehensive answers and explanations for the clue "cougar crossword clue," helping you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "cougar crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
CAT: A general term for any feline, which applies to a cougar.
4 Letters
PUMA: A large American wild cat, commonly known as a cougar or mountain lion.
5 Letters
WOMAN: A slang term for an older woman who seeks a younger romantic partner, often used in crosswords to indicate a non-literal meaning of 'cougar'.
6 Letters
FELINE: Relating to or resembling a cat or cats; cougars are members of the feline family.
More About "cougar crossword clue"
The crossword clue "cougar" is a fascinating example of how puzzles can use both literal and figurative meanings of words. Literally, a cougar is a powerful and agile wild cat native to the Americas, also known by names like mountain lion, puma, or panther. Its sleek build and predatory nature make it a striking animal often featured in nature-themed clues.
However, "cougar" also carries a popular slang connotation, referring to an older woman who pursues romantic relationships with younger men. This dual meaning is a favorite trick of crossword constructors, designed to challenge solvers to think beyond the obvious. When encountering this clue, consider the number of letters and any intersecting words to determine if the puzzle is looking for the animal or the social term.
Understanding these different facets of the word "cougar" is key to successfully solving your puzzle. Always keep an open mind to the various interpretations a single word can have in the creative world of crosswords!
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: Many words, like 'cougar,' have multiple interpretations (literal, figurative, slang). Always check if the clue could be hinting at a less common meaning.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. It immediately narrows down possibilities and helps you discard incorrect answers.
- Look at Intersecting Clues: Sometimes you can't solve a clue directly. Use the letters provided by solved intersecting words to fill in blanks and reveal the correct answer.
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: If 'cougar' doesn't immediately bring an answer to mind, think of synonyms (PUMA), broader categories (CAT, FELINE), or associated terms (WOMAN, in slang).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cougar in the context of crosswords?
A cougar can refer to the large American wild cat (also known as a puma, mountain lion, or panther) or, in slang, an older woman who seeks a younger romantic partner. Crossword clues often play on these dual meanings, requiring you to consider both possibilities.
How many letters does "PUMA" have as an answer for "cougar"?
The word "PUMA" has 4 letters. It is one of the most common and direct answers for a "cougar" clue when referring to the animal, so it's a good one to keep in mind.
Are there other common animal answers for "cougar"?
Besides PUMA, less common but possible answers could be "CAT" (3 letters) as a general feline term, or "FELINE" (6 letters) if the clue refers to the broader animal classification. The specific number of letters and other intersecting clues will guide you.