crossword clue stain – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "stain" for your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by word length, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "crossword clue stain" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SPOT: A small mark or blemish, often caused by liquid or dirt.
MARK: A visible impression or trace on a surface, which can be a stain.
5 Letters
SULLY: To damage the purity or integrity of something, often implying a moral stain.
TAINT: A trace of a bad or undesirable quality or substance, or to contaminate.
6 Letters
SMUDGE: A blurred or smeared mark on a surface.
DEFILE: To make something dirty or no longer pure, similar to staining.
7 Letters
BLEMISH: A small mark or flaw which spoils the appearance of something.
TARNISH: To lose or cause to lose lustre, especially as a result of exposure to air or moisture, often leaving a mark.
8 Letters
DISCOLOR: To change the color of something, especially in a way that spoils its appearance.
More About "crossword clue stain"
The clue "stain" is a versatile one in the world of crosswords, often appearing in various forms to test a solver's vocabulary. It can refer to a physical mark left on a surface, such as a blot or a spot, or it can imply a more abstract concept, like a blemish on one's reputation or a moral taint. Understanding these different nuances is key to selecting the correct answer from the available letters.
Crossword setters frequently use "stain" to mean 'to soil' or 'to tarnish' when looking for verb answers. They might also hint at specific types of stains, leading to answers like 'smudge' or 'blot.' Always consider the word length and any intersecting letters to narrow down the possibilities, as "stain" can have many synonyms that fit different word counts.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Parts of Speech: Is "stain" being used as a noun (a mark) or a verb (to mark)? This will help you identify whether the answer should be a noun or a verb synonym.
- Think Synonyms Broadly: Don't just think of literal stains. Expand your thinking to include words like 'blemish,' 'disgrace,' 'soil,' 'taint,' or 'tarnish,' as these are common crossword solutions for "stain."
- Analyze Neighboring Clues: Sometimes, the answers to adjacent clues can provide crucial letters that help you deduce the correct word for "stain." Use these intersections to your advantage.
- Check Word Length: The number of letters is your most concrete hint. If you have multiple synonyms in mind, the letter count will quickly eliminate incorrect options.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common meaning of "stain" in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'stain' most commonly refers to a mark, spot, blot, or blemish on a surface. It can also imply a verb like to 'soil,' 'mark,' or 'discolor.'
How can I identify synonyms for "stain" in puzzles?
Look for answers that mean 'mark,' 'spot,' 'blot,' 'tinge,' 'taint,' or 'blemish.' Consider both nouns and verbs depending on the clue's context. Words like 'sully,' 'tarnish,' or 'discolor' are also frequent answers.
Are there different types of 'stains' implied by crossword clues?
Yes, 'stain' can refer to a physical mark (e.g., a coffee stain) or a moral blemish (e.g., a stain on one's reputation). The surrounding words in the clue often hint at which meaning is intended.