What is the primary function of the iris in the human eye?

The primary function of the iris is to control the diameter and size of the pupil, and thus the amount of light reaching the retina. In bright light, the iris contracts, making the pupil smaller; in dim light, it relaxes, making the pupil larger.

Why might 'iris feature' have multiple answers in a crossword?

Crossword clues can sometimes have multiple valid answers due to synonyms or different interpretations of the 'feature'. For 'iris feature', both 'PUPIL' (its central opening) and 'COLOR' (its defining aesthetic quality) are accurate and common features, making both plausible depending on the specific puzzle's context.

How does the New York Times crossword often clue eye-related terms?

The New York Times crossword often clues eye-related terms by focusing on their function (e.g., 'Light passer' for PUPIL), appearance (e.g., 'Eye shade' for COLOR), or common idioms (e.g., 'Apple of one's ___'). The difficulty usually lies in recognizing which specific aspect the clue is pointing to.

iris feature nyt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the New York Times crossword and stumped by the clue "iris feature", you've come to the right place. We provide quick and accurate solutions, along with explanations to help you understand the answer and improve your crossword-solving skills.

Solutions for "iris feature nyt crossword clue" by Letter Count

5 Letters

PUPIL: This is the most common answer, referring to the adjustable opening in the center of the iris that controls the amount of light entering the eye.

COLOR: The iris is renowned for its characteristic pigmentation, determining eye color, making this a valid feature often clued in crosswords.

More About "iris feature nyt crossword clue"

The iris is a fascinating and crucial part of the human eye, responsible for controlling the size of the pupil and, consequently, the amount of light that reaches the retina. Its intricate muscular structure allows it to expand and contract, adapting to various lighting conditions, much like the aperture of a camera. This dynamic function is what makes "PUPIL" such a frequently used answer for clues related to the iris.

Beyond its functional role, the iris is also known for its distinct and often beautiful coloration. This pigmentation is unique to each individual, akin to a fingerprint, and is determined by genetics. The color of the iris (e.g., blue, green, brown) is another prominent "feature" that crossword constructors might hint at, leading to "COLOR" as a potential solution, especially when other letters in the grid align.

Understanding these dual aspects – the functional (pupil control) and the aesthetic (color) – can significantly aid in solving crossword clues that involve eye anatomy. Always consider the length of the required answer and any intersecting letters to pinpoint the exact solution when multiple possibilities exist.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Clue's Nuance: For clues like "iris feature," consider whether it's asking for a functional aspect (like PUPIL) or a descriptive one (like COLOR). The phrasing can often give a subtle hint.
Check Letter Count and Intersections: Always confirm the number of letters needed for the answer. If you have several options, the length constraint or existing letters in the grid will usually narrow it down to the correct one.
Think Broadly & Specifically: While "iris feature" points to the eye, also think if the word "iris" itself has other meanings (e.g., a flower) which could lead to a trickier, alternative clue in a different puzzle context.
Common Crossword Tropes: Many common words have specific ways they are clued in crosswords. Over time, you'll recognize patterns for frequently appearing terms and anatomical features.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the iris in the human eye?

The iris is the colored part of the eye that surrounds the pupil. It is a thin, circular structure responsible for controlling the diameter and size of the pupil and thus the amount of light reaching the retina.

How do crossword clues about eye parts usually work?

Crossword clues about eye parts often focus on common features or functions, such as the pupil (light control), retina (light reception), cornea (outer layer), or lens (focusing). The clue will typically hint at the function or location.

Why are there multiple possible answers for some crossword clues?

Multiple answers can exist for a crossword clue due to synonyms, different interpretations, or the clue being used in various puzzles with different grid layouts. Context from surrounding letters is often crucial for determining the correct solution.