crooked crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on "crooked"? You've come to the right place! Below you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions for this clue, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "crooked crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BENT: Not straight; forming an angle.
AWRY: Away from the expected or proper direction; amiss.
6 Letters
SKEWED: Not straight or level; asymmetrical or distorted.
CURVED: Having the form of a curve; bent.
7 Letters
SLANTED: Not straight or level; positioned or inclined at an angle.
TWISTED: Bent, forced, or pulled out of shape.
DEVIANT: Departing from usual or accepted standards, often implying a 'crooked' path or behavior.
9 Letters
DISHONEST: Behaving or prone to behave in an untrustworthy or fraudulent way, referring to 'crooked' character.
9 Letters
MALFORMED: Badly or imperfectly formed; having an abnormal shape.
More About "crooked crossword clue"
The word "crooked" is a versatile term in the English language, and crossword constructors love to exploit its various meanings. Primarily, it refers to something physically not straight, bent, or twisted, leading to answers like BENT, AWRY, or SKEWED. This is its most common interpretation in puzzles, often describing lines, paths, or objects that deviate from a straight axis.
However, "crooked" also carries a strong figurative meaning related to dishonesty, corruption, or moral perversion. When a person or an action is described as "crooked," it often implies illegal, unethical, or deceitful behavior. This duality allows setters to surprise solvers, switching between the literal and metaphorical senses. Answers such as DISHONEST or DEVIANT would fit this context, demanding a deeper understanding of the clue beyond its initial physical interpretation.
Recognizing which meaning is intended is key to solving the puzzle. Pay attention to surrounding clues or the overall theme of the crossword to determine whether you're looking for a physical description or a character trait. This nuance is what makes "crooked" such a classic and engaging crossword clue.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many common words like "crooked" have both literal and figurative meanings. Always brainstorm synonyms for both interpretations.
- Check Letter Count First: Before you even think of an answer, count the number of boxes. This immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Look for Intersecting Clues: The most powerful hint in any crossword is often the letters you gain from solving intersecting clues. These letters can confirm a suspect answer or rule out others.
- Think About Homophones/Puns: Sometimes "crooked" might be part of a wordplay clue. For example, "A crooked path" could lead to a pun. Always be open to clever twists from the constructor.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'crooked' usually imply in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'crooked' often refers to something physically bent, twisted, or not straight (e.g., BENT, AWRY, SKEWED). However, it can also refer to something morally corrupt or dishonest (e.g., DISHONEST, DEVIANT), adding a layer of complexity to the clue.
Why might a 'crooked' clue have multiple answers?
Many crossword clues, especially those with common meanings like 'crooked', have multiple synonyms. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and the intersecting letters from other clues in the puzzle. Crossword setters often use such clues for their versatility.
How can I distinguish between physical and moral 'crooked' answers?
Look at the other intersecting letters you have already filled in. If the letters suggest a word like 'DISHONEST' or 'DEVIANT', the clue is likely referring to the moral sense of 'crooked'. If they suggest 'BENT' or 'SKEWED', it's probably the physical sense. The constructor's overall theme or adjacent clues might also provide hints.