gull crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "gull crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide accurate solutions and insightful explanations to help you complete your puzzle and enhance your crossword skills.
Solutions for "gull crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TERN: A type of seabird often associated with gulls, known for its agile flight.
DOPE: To gull someone means to trick or deceive them, similar to 'dope'.
DUPE: Closely related to 'dope', meaning to deceive or a person easily tricked.
FOOL: To gull someone can also mean to make a fool of them.
BIRD: A general term, as a gull is a type of bird.
5 Letters
TRICK: To gull someone is to perform a trick on them or to deceive them.
CHUMP: A person easily gulled or tricked, often used informally.
7 Letters
SEABIRD: A broader classification for a gull, which is a bird commonly found near the sea.
DECEIVE: A direct synonym for 'gull' when used as a verb meaning to mislead or trick.
More About "gull crossword clue"
The crossword clue "gull" is particularly interesting because the word "gull" has two distinct meanings that crossword constructors love to play with. Most commonly, it refers to the familiar seabird found around coastlines worldwide. However, it also means to deceive or trick someone, or refers to a person who is easily deceived (a 'dupe'). This dual nature makes "gull" a versatile and sometimes tricky clue.
When you encounter this clue, consider the number of letters the answer requires and any accompanying words in the clue that might hint at one meaning over the other. For instance, clues like "Coastal flier" would point to the bird, while "Fool" or "Deceive" would indicate the trickery meaning. Our listed answers cover both aspects, providing comprehensive help for your puzzle.
Remember that crosswords often rely on synonyms, homophones, or even parts of speech to mislead or guide you. The ability to identify these nuances, especially with words like 'gull' that have multiple interpretations, is a key skill for any successful crossword solver.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Dual Meanings: Always check if a word has more than one common meaning, especially if the initial thought doesn't fit the letter count or other intersecting words. "Gull" is a prime example of a word with a common dual meaning (bird vs. deceive).
- Look at Letter Counts Carefully: The length of the answer is your best friend. If you think of "SEAGULL" (7 letters) but the space is for 4 letters, consider synonyms like "TERN" or the other meaning "DUPE".
- Analyze the Clue's Nuance: Is the clue a noun, verb, or adjective? "Gull" can be a noun (the bird, the victim) or a verb (to trick). Pay attention to how the clue is phrased, as this often guides you to the correct part of speech and meaning.
- Think Broad and Specific: Sometimes the clue is very specific (like 'gull' as a bird), but the answer needed is a broader category (like 'BIRD' or 'SEABIRD'). Conversely, a broad clue might need a specific answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings of 'gull' in crosswords?
The word 'gull' typically refers to the bird species, a common coastal bird. However, in crosswords, it frequently leverages its secondary meaning: to deceive or trick someone, or a person who is easily deceived (a 'dupe' or 'fool'). Understanding both interpretations is crucial for solving.
Why are some answers for 'gull' so short, like four letters?
Crossword puzzles often use the most direct and concise synonyms or related terms for 'gull.' For the avian meaning, 'TERN' is a popular four-letter answer. When 'gull' is used in its sense of deception, short verbs like 'DOPE,' 'DUPE,' or 'FOOL' are common, fitting into various grid patterns.
How can I distinguish between the 'bird' and 'deceive' meanings of 'gull' in a crossword?
The surrounding clues or the number of letters often provide the best hints. If the clue mentions 'flier,' 'coastal bird,' 'beach,' or 'sea,' it's highly likely to be the avian meaning. If the clue implies 'trick,' 'fool,' 'deception,' or 'easy mark,' the verb or noun referring to trickery is in play. Pay attention to the part of speech indicated by the clue as well.