crossword clue quarry – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the crossword clue "quarry", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track to completing your puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue quarry" by Letter Count
3 Letters
PIT: An open excavation, often for stone or sand, which is a type of quarry.
4 Letters
PREY: An animal hunted or caught for food by another animal; a victim. This directly relates to the 'hunted' meaning of quarry.
MINE: A place where minerals, especially coal, are extracted from the ground by excavation; also can refer to a quarry itself.
6 Letters
TARGET: An object or person selected as the aim of an attack; a goal or objective. This relates to the 'something pursued' meaning of quarry.
More About "crossword clue quarry"
"Quarry" is a fascinating word in crosswords because it boasts two distinct primary meanings, both frequently exploited by puzzle setters. On one hand, it refers to an excavation site where stone or other materials are extracted from the earth, often leading to answers like MINE or PIT. On the other, it denotes an animal or person pursued or hunted, aligning with answers such as PREY or GAME. This duality makes "quarry" a versatile and sometimes tricky clue, requiring solvers to consider the broader context of the puzzle or intersecting letters.
Understanding these two meanings is key to confidently tackling the clue. When you encounter "quarry," first consider the letter count and available spaces. Then, reflect on whether the surrounding clues lean towards a natural resources theme or an animal/hunting theme. The word's origin from Latin "quadrus" (a square stone) highlights its connection to stone extraction, while its evolution in English led to the hunting context, derived from the French "cuiree" (entrails of game given to hounds).
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Your Letters Carefully: Always verify the exact number of letters in the answer you're considering. This is the most straightforward way to narrow down options for clues like "quarry" which can have multiple answers.
- Check Intersecting Clues: The letters from other, already-solved clues are your best friends. They will often eliminate incorrect answers or confirm the correct one for ambiguous clues like "quarry."
- Consider Dual Meanings: Many words in crosswords, like "quarry," have multiple meanings. Always think about alternative definitions if your first thought doesn't fit the letter count or intersecting letters.
- Think About Common Crosswordese: Some words, while common in general language, appear more frequently in crosswords due to their letter patterns or versatile meanings. "Prey," for example, is a common crossword answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'quarry' mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'quarry' often refers to either a hunted animal (prey, game) or a site where stone or other materials are extracted from the earth (mine, pit). The context of the puzzle or intersecting letters will help determine the correct meaning.
How do I choose the right 'quarry' answer if there are multiple options?
Context is crucial. Pay attention to the number of letters required and any intersecting letters from other clues. If it's a themed puzzle, the theme might provide a strong hint. Always consider both primary meanings: 'hunted animal' and 'extraction site'.
Are there any common synonyms for 'quarry' in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include PREY, GAME (for the hunted meaning) and MINE, PIT, EXCAVATION (for the site meaning). Sometimes, words like SEEK or TARGET can also be related if the clue implies 'to quarry' or pursue something.