like a wing crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "like a wing," you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate solutions and helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "like a wing crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ALAR: Pertaining to a wing or wing-like part. Derived from Latin 'ala' (wing).
More About "like a wing crossword clue"
The clue "like a wing" often appears in crosswords to test a solver's vocabulary, particularly regarding anatomical or biological terms. The most direct and common answer, ALAR, comes from the Latin root 'ala', which means 'wing'. This makes it a perfect example of how Latin and Greek roots are frequently used in crossword clues to hint at scientific or precise definitions.
Understanding these linguistic connections can significantly speed up your solving time. When you see a clue referencing a specific part of an animal or plant, especially if it's broad or generic like "like a wing," consider the scientific or Latin-based terms that describe its characteristics. ALAR is a classic example of an adjective formed from a noun to describe a quality or relation.
While other words might superficially seem to fit, such as "winged" or "aerial," "alar" is distinct in its direct anatomical precision. This precision is a hallmark of many crossword clues, requiring solvers to think beyond common synonyms to the most exact definition, often rooted in etymology.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Etymology: For clues that describe a characteristic or relation, especially to nature or science, think about Latin or Greek roots. Words like ALAR are often derived directly from these classical languages.
- Check Letter Count First: Always match potential answers to the exact number of letters required by the puzzle. This immediately narrows down possibilities for clues like "like a wing" where multiple words might have a similar meaning.
- Look at Intersecting Words: Use the letters you've already filled in from crossing words to confirm or eliminate possibilities. If 'A' is the first letter in a 4-letter word for "like a wing", then ALAR is a strong candidate.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Regularly reading and exploring new words, especially those with clear prefixes, suffixes, and roots, will significantly improve your crossword solving abilities.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is ALAR a common answer for 'like a wing'?
ALAR is derived from the Latin word 'ala', which means 'wing'. Therefore, 'alar' directly translates to 'pertaining to a wing' or 'wing-like', making it a perfect fit for this type of crossword clue.
What other answers might fit a clue like 'like a wing'?
While ALAR is the most direct, other answers might include WINGED (6 letters) if the clue implies having wings, or AERIAL (6 letters) if it refers to something in the air, though less specific to the 'wing' itself. Always consider the number of letters required for your puzzle.
How can I quickly find the right answer when there are multiple possibilities?
Cross-reference with other solved letters in intersecting words. The more letters you have, the easier it is to deduce the correct answer. Also, pay attention to the specific phrasing of the clue – 'like a wing' points to an adjective describing the characteristic, not just something that has a wing.