cream of the crop crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're tackling the clue "cream of the crop" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all the possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your grid effortlessly.
Solutions for "cream of the crop crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
TOP: Meaning the highest point or best quality, often used to describe something excellent.
4 Letters
BEST: A straightforward and common answer signifying superior quality or excellence.
PICK: As in 'the pick of the bunch,' referring to the best selection.
5 Letters
ELITE: Refers to a select group that is superior in terms of ability or qualities, fitting the 'cream of the crop' meaning perfectly.
PRIME: Signifies the best or most favorable period or state, or top quality.
6 Letters
FLOWER: Often used metaphorically to mean the finest or most excellent part of something, directly relating to the 'crop' part of the idiom.
CHOICE: As in 'the choice selection,' indicating the best or preferred option.
More About "cream of the crop crossword clue"
"Cream of the crop" is a well-known idiom referring to the finest, most excellent, or most distinguished individuals or items within a group. The phrase itself evokes an image of selecting the richest, best part (the cream) from a larger quantity (the crop). This concept of superiority is key to deciphering its crossword answers.
When this phrase appears as a clue, crossword constructors are typically looking for synonyms of words like "best," "top," "elite," or "finest." The challenge often lies in matching the exact letter count required by the puzzle. Our answers above cover the most frequent solutions you'll encounter for this popular and descriptive idiom.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Core Meaning: Always break down idiomatic clues like "cream of the crop" to their fundamental meaning – in this case, "the best" or "superior."
- Brainstorm Synonyms: Once you have the core meaning, list as many synonyms as you can think of. Words like 'top', 'elite', 'prime', 'best', 'finest', 'choice', and 'select' are good starting points.
- Consider Metaphorical Links: For clues with strong imagery, think about literal and figurative interpretations. 'Flower' is a great example here, connecting to 'crop' in a metaphorical sense for excellence.
- Check Word Lengths: With your brainstormed list, see which words fit the available spaces in your puzzle. This is crucial for narrowing down possibilities.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the idiom 'cream of the crop' mean?
The idiom 'cream of the crop' refers to the very best of a group or collection; the most excellent or superior part. It implies selectivity and high quality.
How can I find crossword answers for idiomatic clues like this?
For idiomatic clues, focus on the core meaning (e.g., 'best,' 'top,' 'elite'). Brainstorm synonyms for this core meaning, consider different word lengths, and think about any metaphorical interpretations (like 'flower' for 'crop'). Context from surrounding letters can also be a huge help.
Are there common themes in 'cream of the crop' type crossword clues?
Yes, clues that suggest excellence, superiority, prime condition, or the top performers in a group often yield similar answers. Words like 'best,' 'elite,' 'prime,' 'top,' and even 'choice' are frequently used.