nap crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the "nap crossword clue", you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of possible answers, sorted by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "nap crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
NOD: A very brief, often unintentional, period of sleep, typically indicated by the head dropping. Often clued as 'brief nap' or 'doze off'.
4 Letters
DOZE: A light sleep, often taken during the day. This is a common and concise answer for 'nap'.
REST: A period of relaxation or inactivity, which can include a short sleep. A versatile answer when the clue suggests a general pause.
6 Letters
SNOOZE: A more informal term for a short, light sleep. Frequently seen in crosswords for 'nap' or 'sleep lightly'.
CATNAP: A very short, light sleep, often taken sitting upright. The term itself suggests brevity and quickness, like a cat's brief sleep.
SIESTA: A specific type of short nap taken in the early afternoon, common in hot countries. Often clued with cultural or time-of-day references.
7 Letters
SLUMBER: Though usually implying deeper sleep, 'slumber' can sometimes be clued for 'nap' or a period of rest, especially if combined with other words or in a broader sense of repose.
More About "nap crossword clue"
The clue "nap" is a classic in crosswords due to its versatility and the array of synonyms it possesses. Crossword setters often use it to refer to a short period of sleep or rest, but the specific answer can vary widely based on the letter count and surrounding clues. Understanding the nuances of terms like 'doze,' 'snooze,' 'siesta,' and 'catnap' is key to identifying the correct solution.
Beyond its literal meaning, "nap" can sometimes hint at more figurative uses, such as a short pause or a brief moment of inattention, although these are less common in standard crossword puzzles. The most frequent interpretations revolve around short periods of sleep, making it a relatively straightforward clue once you consider the typical crossword vocabulary for rest.
When you encounter 'nap' in a crossword, always consider the possibility of common prefixes or suffixes that might extend or shorten the word, or look for adjectives in the clue that specify the *type* of nap being sought, such as 'afternoon nap' (SIESTA) or 'brief nap' (CATNAP, NOD).
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always start by checking the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities from our list for "nap crossword clue."
- Look for Context Clues: Does the clue specify 'afternoon nap,' 'brief nap,' or anything similar? These additional words are crucial for differentiating between answers like SIESTA, CATNAP, or NOD.
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. This is often the most effective way to confirm or eliminate potential answers for "nap."
- Think Synonyms and Related Concepts: Crosswords often use synonyms. Besides the direct meaning of 'nap,' consider broader terms for rest or light sleep.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'nap' and 'sleep' in crosswords?
While 'sleep' refers to a longer period of unconsciousness, 'nap' typically implies a shorter, lighter period of rest. Crossword setters often use 'nap' to clue shorter answers like DOZE or REST, whereas 'sleep' might lead to longer words or synonyms for deep slumber.
Are there different types of 'naps' clued in crosswords?
Absolutely! Crosswords love to play on variations. You might see clues like 'afternoon nap' (SIESTA), 'short nap' (CATNAP, DOZE), or 'brief rest' (NOD). Paying attention to adjectives can help narrow down the possibilities.
What common synonyms for 'nap' appear in crosswords?
Besides the obvious, common synonyms include DOZE, SNOOZE, REST, CATNAP, SIESTA, and NOD. Occasionally, more descriptive terms like SLUMBER (though often for deeper sleep) or REPOSE might appear, depending on the clue's length and context.