What's the difference between a mesa and a butte?

While both are isolated flat-topped landforms with steep sides, a mesa is generally larger in area than a butte. A butte is often described as a smaller, more column-like version of a mesa.

Are flat-topped hills only found in certain regions?

Flat-topped hills like buttes and mesas are predominantly found in arid and semi-arid regions. Their distinctive shape is a result of erosion in areas with horizontal strata of rock.

How can I quickly find answers for geological crossword clues?

For geological clues, think about common terms for landforms, rock types, or natural processes. Online crossword solvers and geological dictionaries can be very helpful. Pay attention to the letter count to narrow down possibilities.

flat topped hill crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find the most accurate and helpful solutions for the crossword clue "flat topped hill crossword clue," complete with explanations for all possible word lengths. Let's get that puzzle solved!

Solutions for "flat topped hill crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

MESA: A classic term for a flat-topped hill or mountain, often found in arid regions.

5 Letters

BUTTE: An isolated hill with steep, often vertical sides and a small, relatively flat top.

7 Letters

PLATEAU: A large area of high-level ground that is relatively flat, sometimes used more broadly to refer to a very large flat-topped hill.

More About "flat topped hill crossword clue"

The clue "flat topped hill" almost exclusively points to geological formations like buttes and mesas. These distinctive landforms are characterized by their elevated, level surfaces and often sheer, cliff-like sides. They are formed through a process of differential erosion, where softer surrounding rock layers are worn away, leaving behind harder, more resistant caps of rock that protect the underlying material.

You'll commonly find buttes and mesas in dry, arid regions, notably in the southwestern United States, Australia, and parts of Africa. Their unique profiles make them iconic features in landscapes and frequent subjects in geographical and geological crosswords. Understanding these specific landform terms is key to cracking such clues quickly.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Clue's Context: For clues like "flat topped hill," consider if there's a specific field (e.g., geology, geography) that the answer might come from. This helps narrow down your thoughts.
Check Letter Count: Always count the available spaces in the grid. This is your primary filter. For "flat topped hill," knowing if you need 4, 5, or 7 letters immediately helps distinguish between MESA, BUTTE, and PLATEAU.
Think of Synonyms and Specific Terms: Sometimes a clue asks for a less common synonym or a very specific technical term. If a common answer doesn't fit, think of related, more precise words.
Use Cross-References: Don't forget that intersecting words are your best friends. If you have a few letters from crossing answers, they can reveal the "flat topped hill" solution almost instantly.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common answer for "flat topped hill crossword clue"?

The most common answers are generally BUTTE (5 letters) or MESA (4 letters), depending on the required length. Both are widely recognized terms for this type of landform.

Can "plateau" also be an answer for "flat topped hill"?

Yes, while a plateau is typically a much larger geographical feature than what is usually called a "hill," it does fit the "flat topped" description and can be a valid answer if the letter count (e.g., 7 letters) suggests it, or if the puzzle setter is using the term broadly.

How do I know if the clue refers to a small or large flat-topped hill?

Crossword clues rarely specify size directly for buttes/mesas. The most reliable indicator is the number of letters in the answer grid. If you have 4 spaces, think MESA. If 5, think BUTTE. If it's a longer clue, or relates to a vast region, PLATEAU might be appropriate.