escritoire crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "escritoire crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
DESK: A piece of furniture with a flat top and often drawers, used for writing or reading.
6 Letters
BUREAU: A desk, especially one with a set of drawers and a writing surface, often for use in a bedroom or study. It can also refer to a chest of drawers.
9 Letters
SECRETARY: An old-fashioned term for a type of writing desk that typically has a fall-front or slant top that, when opened, forms a writing surface.
11 Letters
WRITINGDESK: A general term for a desk specifically designed and used for writing.
More About "escritoire crossword clue"
An "escritoire" is an elegant piece of furniture primarily designed for writing. Its name originates from the French word 'écritoire,' meaning a writing desk. Unlike a simple flat-top desk, an escritoire often features an intricate design, including a series of small drawers, pigeonholes, and a slanting or fall-front lid that opens to provide a writing surface. Historically, these desks were status symbols, crafted from fine woods like mahogany, walnut, or rosewood, and often adorned with brass fittings or marquetry.
Popular from the 17th to 19th centuries, escritoires served as personal offices for letter writing, record-keeping, and storing important documents. They vary greatly in style, from small, portable box-like structures to large, elaborate cabinets that resemble a secretary desk or bureau. The term is less common in modern usage, making it a favorite for crossword constructors who appreciate words with rich history and specific meanings.
Understanding the nuance of such terms is key to mastering crosswords. An escritoire is more than just a desk; it embodies a period of craftsmanship and a specific function, often associated with a sense of private intellectual pursuit. Its inclusion in a puzzle tests not just vocabulary, but also a knowledge of historical objects and their roles.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: For clues like "escritoire," consider all possible synonyms or closely related terms (desk, bureau, secretary). Crosswords often play on these relationships.
- Pay Attention to Word Length: The number of letters provided in the clue is your best friend. It instantly narrows down the possibilities and helps confirm your guesses.
- Look for Historical or Archaic Terms: Crossword constructors love to use words that might not be in common daily use but are historically significant or have specific, niche meanings.
- Consider the "Type" of Clue: Is it a straightforward definition, a pun, an anagram, or a general knowledge question? Identifying the clue type can guide your thinking.
- Don't Be Afraid to Use Resources: If you're stuck, use a dictionary, thesaurus, or a reliable crossword solving website like Answercrossword.com. It's a learning process!
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an escritoire and a regular desk?
An escritoire is a specific type of writing desk, often characterized by its ornamental design, built-in compartments, and sometimes a fall-front or slant top that opens to provide the writing surface. While all escritoires are desks, not all desks are escritoires. A regular desk can be any flat surface used for work, writing, or study, often much simpler in design.
Are escritoires still common today?
While modern offices and homes typically use more contemporary desks, antique escritoires are highly valued as collector's items and elegant pieces of furniture. They are less common for everyday use but can be found in antique shops, auctions, and specialized furniture stores.
Why do crosswords often include archaic or less common terms like 'escritoire'?
Crossword puzzles often use archaic, historical, or less common terms to increase the challenge and expand the solver's vocabulary. These clues encourage solvers to think beyond everyday language and explore the broader spectrum of words, making the puzzle more engaging and educational. They often rely on synonyms or historical definitions.