eat away at crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "eat away at" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, broken down by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you unstuck quickly.

Solutions for "eat away at crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

GNAW: To bite at or chew something persistently, causing it to gradually wear down or be consumed. Often used in phrases like "gnaw away at."

5 Letters

ERODE: To gradually wear away or destroy something, often through natural forces like wind, water, or ice, or by chemical action.

7 Letters

CORRODE: To destroy or damage (metal, stone, or other materials) gradually by chemical action, such as rust.

More About "eat away at crossword clue"

"Eat away at" is a versatile phrase often encountered in crosswords, and its meaning can range from literal physical degradation to metaphorical psychological torment. Literally, it describes a process of gradual destruction, such as water eroding a coastline or acid corroding metal. Understanding this physical aspect helps in finding answers like ERODE or CORRODE.

Figuratively, the phrase can refer to something that slowly consumes or destroys a person's peace of mind, health, or resources. For instance, worry or guilt can "eat away at" someone. While less common for direct answers, recognizing this nuance can help you eliminate incorrect options or consider more abstract synonyms if the physical ones don't fit.

When you see this clue, always consider both interpretations and, most importantly, the number of letters you need to fill. This dual nature makes it a classic crossword clue, testing your vocabulary breadth.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'eat away at' imply in crossword clues?

In crossword puzzles, 'eat away at' typically implies a gradual process of wearing down, destroying, or consuming. This can be literal (like erosion or rust) or figurative (like worry or guilt 'eating away at' someone).

Are there common crossword answers for 'eat away at'?

Yes, common answers often include verbs related to gradual destruction. Some frequent solutions are ERODE, CORRODE, GNaw, and WEAR, depending on the specific context and required letter count of the puzzle.

How do I narrow down answers for clues like 'eat away at'?

To narrow down answers, first check the number of letters provided in the grid. Then, consider the nuance: is it a chemical process (corrode), a natural wearing down (erode), or a more active biting (gnaw)? The surrounding letters you've already filled in are also crucial.