crossword clue cipher – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "crossword clue cipher", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, explanations, and helpful tips to complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue cipher" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CODE: A system of words, letters, figures, or symbols used to represent others, especially for the purposes of secrecy. Often a direct synonym for cipher in puzzles.
ZERO: A cipher can also refer to the numerical digit zero or nothing, particularly in older contexts or British English.
6 Letters
ENCODE: To convert (information or an instruction) into a code or cipher. This answer implies the action of applying a cipher.
NOUGHT: The figure zero; also refers to nothing, often a synonym for cipher in older contexts or cryptic clues, especially when referring to a numerical value.
SECRET: Something kept from the knowledge of others, which is the fundamental purpose of a cipher. It's a conceptual answer for the clue.
10 Letters
CRYPTOGRAM: A message written in a code or cipher. This is a more specific and longer answer for the result of using a cipher.
More About "crossword clue cipher"
The term "cipher" in crosswords can be surprisingly versatile, leading to a variety of answers depending on the setter's intent. While most commonly associated with secret codes and encryption (leading to answers like CODE or CRYPTOGRAM), it also has a historical meaning referring to the numerical digit zero or nothingness (often NOUGHT or ZERO). This duality is what makes "cipher" an interesting and sometimes tricky clue to solve.
Understanding the context of the clue is paramount. If the clue hints at a method of concealing information, then answers related to cryptography are appropriate. However, if the clue uses phrases like "figure of no value" or "nothing at all," then the numerical interpretation is likely correct. Always consider the number of letters required for the answer as a vital hint, as shorter answers might lean towards the numerical meaning while longer ones often describe the secret message aspect.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the full clue: Don't just focus on "cipher." Look for surrounding words that might indicate whether it's a number or a code (e.g., "secret message" vs. "value of nothing").
- Check intersecting letters: If you have letters from other answers, they can significantly narrow down the possibilities for "cipher," helping you confirm the correct word length and meaning.
- Consider synonyms for both meanings: Keep in mind synonyms for both "secret code" (like CODE, ENCODE, CRYPTOGRAM) and "zero" (like NOUGHT, NIL).
- Think about common crossword patterns: Some setters have preferred ways of using certain words. If you're familiar with the puzzle, past clues might give you an edge.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "cipher" mean in a crossword puzzle?
In crosswords, "cipher" can refer to a secret code, an encrypted message, or even the numerical digit zero (nought). Its specific meaning depends heavily on the clue's context, accompanying words, and the required letter count for the answer.
Are there different types of ciphers commonly found as answers in crosswords?
Yes, common answers for 'cipher' include 'CODE' (referring to a system of secrecy), 'ZERO' or 'NOUGHT' (referring to the number zero), 'ENCODE' (the act of ciphers), and sometimes 'SECRET'. More challenging clues might lead to answers like 'CRYPTOGRAM' for an encrypted message.
How can I identify if 'cipher' refers to a number or a code in a crossword clue?
Look for additional hints in the clue. If the clue mentions 'nothing,' 'digit,' 'figure,' or 'numerical value,' it strongly suggests a numerical answer like 'ZERO' or 'NOUGHT'. If it refers to 'secret,' 'message,' 'code,' or 'scramble,' it's more likely a code-related answer like 'CODE' or 'ENCODE'.