crossword clue water nymph – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling a puzzle and need a hand with the clue "water nymph", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the possible solutions, complete with explanations, to help you complete your crossword.
Solutions for "crossword clue water nymph" by Letter Count
5 Letters
NAIAD: A type of water nymph in Greek mythology, specifically associated with freshwater springs, rivers, and lakes. Often a primary answer for 'water nymph'.
6 Letters
UNDINE: A European mythological water nymph, often appearing in folklore as human-like but lacking a soul until they marry a mortal.
NEREID: In Greek mythology, one of the 50 daughters of Nereus and Doris, often depicted as sea nymphs accompanying Poseidon. While technically sea nymphs, they are commonly accepted as answers for broader 'water nymph' clues in crosswords.
More About "crossword clue water nymph"
Water nymphs are enchanting figures found across various mythologies, most notably in Greek and Roman lore. These female deities or spirits embody different aspects of water, from bubbling springs and rushing rivers to vast oceans and serene lakes. Their presence in folklore often represents the life-giving, mysterious, and sometimes dangerous nature of water itself.
In crosswords, "water nymph" is a popular clue due to the diverse names associated with these mythical beings. Solvers often encounter terms like NAIAD, referring to freshwater nymphs, or NEREID, which specifies sea nymphs. Understanding these distinctions, or the broader applicability of the term 'nymph' to any water-related spirit, is key to solving such clues. Undines, from European folklore, also provide a common alternative answer, demonstrating the rich tapestry of global mythology that crossword creators draw upon.
These clues test not just your vocabulary but also your knowledge of classical mythology and world folklore. Recognizing the common names and their letter counts can give you a significant edge in tackling these intriguing entries.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Mythology: When faced with a mythological clue like "water nymph," immediately think of common figures from Greek, Roman, or even European folklore. Names like NAIAD, UNDINE, and NEREID are frequent go-tos.
- Count Your Letters: Always use the given letter count to narrow down your options. For example, if you have a 5-letter slot, NAIAD is a strong candidate, whereas UNDINE or NEREID fit a 6-letter slot.
- Broad vs. Specific: Sometimes a clue might be specific (e.g., "sea nymph" pointing directly to NEREID), but often "water nymph" can encompass several types. Don't be afraid to try broader terms if more specific ones don't fit.
- Check for Crossings: Use any intersecting letters you already have filled in to confirm your answer. This is crucial, especially when multiple answers have the same letter count.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a water nymph?
A water nymph is a mythological spirit or deity associated with water, such as oceans, rivers, lakes, springs, and fountains. They are often depicted as beautiful young women and are prominent figures in various mythologies, particularly Greek and Roman.
Are all water nymphs the same, or are there different types?
There are many different types of water nymphs, each associated with a specific kind of water body. For example, Naiads are freshwater nymphs (springs, rivers), Nereids are sea nymphs, Oceanids are ocean nymphs, and Limnades are lake nymphs. Each type has distinct characteristics and roles in mythology.
Why are mythological creatures like water nymphs common in crosswords?
Mythological creatures and figures are very common in crosswords because their names are often distinctive, can fit various letter counts, and are widely known (or can be looked up). They provide a rich source of vocabulary that challenges solvers' general knowledge while being precise enough to have single, correct answers.