Why is 'STRIPED' a common answer for 'like a zebra'?

'STRIPED' is a common answer because zebras are famously known for their black and white stripes, which are their most distinctive feature. The clue directly points to this visual characteristic.

What does 'ZEBRINE' mean in a crossword context?

'ZEBRINE' is an adjective that directly means 'resembling a zebra' or 'pertaining to zebras'. It's a more direct and often preferred answer when the letter count fits, as it specifically links to the animal.

Are there other animals or patterns that are 'like a zebra'?

While zebras are unique, the phrase 'like a zebra' in crosswords typically refers to the striped pattern. Other animals might have patterns, but zebras are the quintessential example of stripes. Sometimes 'BANDED' or 'VARIEGATED' could be alternative answers for similar visual descriptions.

like a zebra crossword – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "like a zebra crossword", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.

Solutions for "like a zebra crossword" by Letter Count

6 Letters

BANDED: Referring to something marked with stripes or bands of contrasting color.

7 Letters

STRIPED: Describing something marked with stripes; a direct characteristic of a zebra.

ZEBRINE: Directly pertaining to, or resembling a zebra, including its appearance.

More About "like a zebra crossword"

The clue "like a zebra" is a classic example of how crosswords use descriptive adjectives to refer to an animal's most defining characteristic. Zebras are instantly recognizable by their distinctive black and white striped patterns, which serve various purposes in the wild, from camouflage to temperature regulation. In the context of a crossword, this clue often points to words that describe patterns or colors.

When you encounter such a clue, consider not just direct descriptions but also more abstract terms that relate to the visual effect of the stripes. Sometimes, clues might even refer to the optical illusion created by a herd of zebras, known as 'dazzle camouflage'. However, for simpler puzzles, 'striped' or 'banded' are usually the most straightforward answers, while 'zebrine' offers a more specific, albeit less common, option.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Core Description: For clues like "like a zebra," identify the most prominent feature (stripes). Think of synonyms for that feature (banded, streaky, lined).
Consider Direct Adjectives: Sometimes, there's a specific adjective derived from the noun itself (e.g., "zebrine" from "zebra," "leonine" from "lion"). These are often useful for less common letter counts.
Check Letter Count First: Always verify the number of letters. This is the most crucial constraint in crosswords and immediately narrows down possibilities. If you have an answer in mind, but the count doesn't match, it's probably not the right one.
Think about Broader Categories: If specific synonyms don't work, consider broader categories of description. For "like a zebra," words like "patterned" or "bicolored" might be considered in a different context, but are less direct for this specific clue.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Why do some crossword clues seem so obscure?

Crossword clues can sometimes feel obscure because they rely on wordplay, synonyms, puns, or specific knowledge. The key is to think broadly about all possible meanings of a word or phrase, and to consider the letter count, which acts as a powerful hint.

How can I improve my crossword-solving speed?

To improve speed, regular practice is essential. Also, try to learn common crosswordese (words frequently used in puzzles), expand your vocabulary, and pay attention to clue types (e.g., anagrams, double definitions, abbreviations). Using a variety of sources and challenging yourself with different difficulty levels helps.

Is there a trick to solving pattern-based clues?

For pattern-based clues like "like a zebra," the trick is to identify the most defining visual characteristic. Think about the sensory input – what does it look like? What color is it? Is it smooth or rough? Then brainstorm synonyms for those descriptive words. Often, the answer is a straightforward adjective.