gawk at crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "gawk at", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, broken down by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle. Dive in and find the perfect solution!
Solutions for "gawk at crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GAWK: To stare foolishly, rudely, or with open-mouthed wonder. This is a direct match for the clue itself and often appears as an answer.
OGLE: To stare at in a lecherous or overtly suggestive manner. Implies a less innocent and more disrespectful form of staring.
GAZE: To look steadily and intently, often with admiration, wonder, or deep thought. While a form of staring, it usually carries a more positive or neutral connotation than 'gawk'.
5 Letters
STARE: To look fixedly with wide eyes. A general term for fixed looking, which can be done rudely or with intense focus, similar to 'gawk'.
10 Letters
RUBBERNECK: To stretch out one's neck or turn one's head to stare at something in a foolishly inquisitive manner, especially an accident or something sensational. This is a very specific type of 'gawking'.
More About "gawk at crossword clue"
"Gawk at" is a common phrase that often appears in crossword puzzles, challenging solvers to think about synonyms for staring, looking, and observing with different nuances. The key to solving these clues lies in understanding the subtle distinctions between verbs that describe looking. While 'gawk' implies a somewhat rude, open-mouthed, or foolish stare, other related words like 'gaze' suggest a more thoughtful or admiring look, and 'ogle' points to a suggestive or lecherous glance.
Crossword setters love to play with these nuances, often adding descriptive adjectives or adverbs to the clue to guide you towards the precise answer. For instance, a clue might be "Gawk rudely" to point to OGLE, or "Gawk in wonder" for GAZE. Always consider the context provided by the clue and the number of letters in the answer grid to narrow down your options effectively.
Remember that crosswords often use everyday phrases, and 'gawk at' is a perfect example of how common expressions are transformed into engaging linguistic puzzles. By familiarizing yourself with the various synonyms and their connotations, you'll be well-equipped to tackle similar clues in future crosswords.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For clues like "gawk at," pay close attention to any adverbs or adjectives. Words like "rudely," "admiringly," "foolishly," or "curiously" can point to specific synonyms (e.g., OGLE vs. GAZE vs. GAWK).
- Count Your Letters Carefully: The exact number of letters is your most crucial hint. It eliminates many possibilities and confirms others. Double-check your chosen answer's length against the grid.
- Consider Prepositions: The "at" in "gawk at" is important. Some verbs naturally take "at" (e.g., stare at, look at), while others might not. This can help confirm your choice.
- Think of Homophones and Anagrams: While not directly applicable to "gawk at," always be aware that crossword setters sometimes use wordplay. Though less common for direct synonym clues, it's a good general strategy.
- Use Crossing Letters: The most fundamental crossword strategy. Every letter you fill in from a crossing word is a confirmed letter for your current clue, drastically reducing the possibilities.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'gawk at' mean in a crossword clue?
In crossword puzzles, 'gawk at' refers to staring at something or someone in an open-mouthed, foolish, or impolite manner. It often implies a sense of wonder, curiosity, or rudeness.
What are common synonyms for 'gawk at' used in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'gawk at' found in crosswords include 'STARE', 'OGLE', 'GAZE', and sometimes even the word 'GAWK' itself, depending on the number of letters required. The specific nuance of the clue will help determine the best fit.
How can I tell if the answer is 'OGLE' or 'GAZE' for a 4-letter 'gawk at' clue?
The distinction lies in the connotation. 'OGLE' implies a suggestive or lecherous stare, often with negative implications. 'GAZE' suggests a steady, often admiring or thoughtful look without the rudeness. Look for additional words in the clue, like 'rudely' for OGLE or 'lovingly' for GAZE, to help differentiate.