lingus crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "lingus crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "lingus crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ORAL: Pertaining to the mouth, often used in contexts of speech or communication, linking to the 'lingus' root.
KISS: An act often involving the tongue, especially in more intimate or passionate contexts.
LICK: To pass the tongue over something, a direct action related to the tongue.
6 Letters
TONGUE: The most direct answer, as 'lingus' is derived from the Latin for tongue. Essential for taste and speech.
SPEECH: The ability to express thoughts and feelings by articulate sounds, heavily relying on the tongue's movement.
7 Letters
LINGUAL: Directly meaning "of or relating to the tongue" or "of or relating to language," a common derivative.
10 Letters
OSCULATION: A formal or scientific term for the act of kissing, which intrinsically involves the tongue and mouth.
More About "lingus crossword clue"
The clue "lingus" in a crossword puzzle almost universally points to its Latin origin, "lingua," which means both "tongue" and "language." This duality provides crosswords with a rich source of wordplay. Depending on the puzzle's setter and the surrounding context, the answer could be a direct reference to the anatomical organ, a term related to spoken communication, or even a more abstract concept tied to linguistics or specific actions involving the tongue.
Understanding this root helps unlock a variety of solutions. For example, if the clue implies anatomy, "TONGUE" is a clear fit. If it's about verbal expression, "ORAL" or "SPEECH" might be appropriate. Puzzles often play on the less common meanings or actions, leading to answers like "OSCULATION" (kissing) or "LICK." Always consider the number of letters and any intersecting words as critical hints.
Mastering clues like "lingus" involves not just knowing the direct translation but also exploring its semantic field. Think about words that incorporate "lingua" as a prefix or suffix, or actions and concepts that are fundamentally tied to the tongue or language. This broader perspective will significantly enhance your crossword-solving abilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. For "lingus," shorter answers like "ORAL" or "KISS" differ greatly from longer ones like "OSCULATION" or "LINGUAL."
- Check Intersecting Words: Always fill in crossing letters first. They can narrow down possibilities dramatically and confirm your suspicions for a "lingus" related answer.
- Consider Nuances of "Lingua": Remember "lingua" means both tongue and language. If one interpretation doesn't fit, switch to the other. Is it an organ, an action, or a linguistic term?
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Crossword setters love to mislead. While "TONGUE" is obvious, be prepared for less direct answers like "ORAL" or "SPEECH" depending on how the clue is phrased.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary meaning of 'lingus' in crossword clues?
The term 'lingus' primarily derives from the Latin word 'lingua,' meaning 'tongue' or 'language.' Therefore, in crosswords, clues containing or hinting at 'lingus' often relate to the mouth, speech, or linguistic concepts.
How does context help with 'lingus' clues?
Context is crucial. If the clue hints at an anatomical part, 'TONGUE' is likely. If it's about speaking or communication, 'ORAL' or 'LINGUAL' might fit. For more obscure or playful clues, it could refer to specific acts involving the tongue, like 'KISS' or 'LICK.'
Are there common suffixes or prefixes related to 'lingus' in crosswords?
Yes, common related terms include 'lingual' (referring to the tongue or language), '-lingus' as a suffix in compound words, and words derived from 'lingua' like 'linguistics' or 'bilingual.' Recognizing these patterns can often help solve the clue.