nine sided shape crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for the solution to the crossword clue "nine sided shape", you've come to the right place. We provide quick help and clear explanations to get you unstuck.
Solutions for "nine sided shape crossword clue" by Letter Count
7 Letters
NONAGON: The most common name for a polygon with nine sides and nine angles.
8 Letters
ENNEAGON: An alternative, less common but mathematically correct name for a nine-sided polygon, derived from Greek.
More About "nine sided shape crossword clue"
A nine-sided shape is formally known as a nonagon. In geometry, polygons are classified by the number of their sides, and the term 'nonagon' comes from the Latin prefix 'nona-' meaning nine, combined with '-gon' meaning angle. While 'nonagon' is the prevalent term in English, the term 'enneagon' is also mathematically correct, stemming from the Greek word 'ennea' also meaning nine. Both terms refer to the same geometric figure.
Regular nonagons, where all sides and all angles are equal, are rarely seen in everyday objects due to their complex angles. However, they appear in various mathematical contexts and sometimes in specialized architectural designs or decorative patterns. Understanding these terms is useful not just for crosswords but also for general knowledge about geometry.
When this clue appears in crosswords, 'NONAGON' is almost always the intended answer due to its higher frequency of use. However, advanced or themed puzzles might sometimes use 'ENNEAGON' to challenge solvers.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This is often the first and most critical hint, especially for number-based clues like shapes.
- Think of Synonyms and Alternatives: For clues like "nine sided shape," there might be more than one correct mathematical term. If one doesn't fit, try another.
- Use Crossing Letters: Leverage letters from intersecting words. Even one confirmed letter can significantly narrow down the possibilities for a challenging answer like a polygon name.
- Etymology Can Help: Many geometric terms have Greek or Latin roots. Knowing common prefixes (like 'nona-' for nine or 'ennea-' for nine) can sometimes help you deduce the answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common crossword answer for a nine-sided shape?
The most common and widely accepted crossword answer for a nine-sided shape is NONAGON.
Are NONAGON and ENNEAGON the same thing?
Yes, both NONAGON and ENNEAGON refer to a polygon with nine sides and nine angles. They are synonymous terms, with 'nonagon' having Latin roots and 'enneagon' having Greek roots.
Why do some crosswords use 'ENNEAGON' instead of 'NONAGON'?
Some crosswords might use 'ENNEAGON' for a nine-sided shape to offer a greater challenge, to fit specific letter counts, or as part of a themed puzzle focusing on etymology or less common terms. It's a valid alternative answer.