narrow waterway crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "narrow waterway" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you.
Solutions for "narrow waterway crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
GUT: A narrow passage or channel, often connecting two larger bodies of water.
5 Letters
CANAL: An artificial waterway constructed for navigation, irrigation, or drainage.
CREEK: A small narrow stream or river, often a tributary.
INLET: A small arm of the sea, a lake, or a river that extends into the land.
6 Letters
STRAIT: A narrow passage of water connecting two large areas of water, typically seas.
7 Letters
CHANNEL: A length of water wider than a strait, joining two larger areas of water, especially two seas; or a narrow, deep passage.
More About "narrow waterway crossword clue"
The clue "narrow waterway" is a common one in crosswords, often pointing to various geographical features or man-made constructions. The key to solving it lies in considering the specific context of the puzzle, such as the number of letters required and any intersecting words.
From natural formations like a 'strait' separating two landmasses, to a meandering 'creek' through a landscape, or a human-engineered 'canal' facilitating transport, these terms describe constricted water paths crucial for navigation, drainage, or natural ecosystems. Recognizing the nuances of each term can significantly speed up your puzzle-solving process.
Crossword setters love using such versatile clues because they allow for multiple correct answers depending on the desired word length, making it a good test of a solver's vocabulary and general knowledge.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and narrows down your options significantly for clues like "narrow waterway."
- Think of Both Natural and Man-Made: "Waterway" can refer to both natural features (rivers, streams, straits) and artificial ones (canals, ditches). Keep both categories in mind.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: The most crucial tip! Even if you're unsure about "narrow waterway," a few letters from crossing words can quickly reveal whether it's CANAL, CREEK, STRAIT, or CHANNEL.
- Synonym Brainstorm: If stuck, brainstorm synonyms for 'narrow' (e.g., constricted, tight) and 'waterway' (e.g., passage, course, stream). This can sometimes trigger the answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between a strait and a channel?
While both are narrow waterways connecting larger bodies of water, a 'strait' is generally a naturally formed, very narrow passage. A 'channel' can be natural but is often wider than a strait, or it can refer to a deeper, dredged part of a waterway for navigation, or even a man-made route.
Are all narrow waterways man-made?
No, many narrow waterways are natural formations, such as creeks, inlets, straits, and parts of rivers. However, canals and some channels are man-made, constructed for specific purposes like transportation or irrigation.
How can I guess the length of a crossword answer for "waterway" clues?
Consider synonyms and specific types. 'Gut' or 'Cut' are often 3 letters. 'Canal', 'Creek', 'Inlet' are commonly 5 letters. 'Strait' and 'Stream' are usually 6 letters. 'Channel' is 7 letters. Always think about the specific context or other intersecting words in the puzzle.