What is an 'old ointment' in a crossword context?

In crosswords, an 'old ointment' clue typically points to words like SALVE, BALM, or UNGUENT. These terms have historical connotations for medicinal or soothing preparations, distinguishing them from more modern creams or lotions. They often appear in puzzles requiring vocabulary with a classical or less common feel.

How can I distinguish between 'salve' and 'unguent' for a crossword clue?

The distinction often comes down to letter count and subtle nuances in usage. 'SALVE' is a more common, general term for a healing ointment. 'UNGUENT' is less common and carries a more archaic or formal tone, making it perfect for 'old ointment' clues when a longer word is needed. Always check the number of letters provided in the puzzle to guide your choice.

Are there other historical terms for ointments used in crosswords?

Yes, besides salve, balm, and unguent, other terms that might appear include LINIMENT (though often more liquid) or even archaic terms for specific medicinal applications. Crossword constructors love to use words that evoke a sense of history or less common vocabulary to challenge solvers.

old ointment crossword clue – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on "old ointment crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible answers, broken down by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back to solving your puzzle. Let's find your solution!

Solutions for "old ointment crossword clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

BALM: A fragrant, medicinal oil or ointment, often used for soothing or healing. Historically, balms were made from aromatic resins.

5 Letters

SALVE: An unctuous preparation or healing ointment applied to wounds, sores, or skin conditions. It's a common term for a soothing topical application.

7 Letters

UNGUENT: A soft, greasy, or viscous substance used as an ointment or for lubrication. The term has an ancient and formal feel, fitting 'old ointment'.

8 Letters

LINIMENT: A liquid or semi-liquid preparation that is applied to the skin as an anodyne or counterirritant, often used to relieve pain or stiffness, particularly in muscles and joints.

More About "old ointment crossword clue"

The clue "old ointment" is a classic crossword staple, designed to test your vocabulary for historical or less common terms for topical preparations. While modern medicine uses terms like 'cream' or 'lotion,' crosswords often delve into the past, looking for words that evoke a sense of antiquity or tradition. This type of clue requires solvers to think beyond everyday language and tap into a broader linguistic knowledge base.

Words like SALVE, BALM, and UNGUENT all fit this description perfectly. SALVE is perhaps the most broadly recognized, referring to any healing or soothing ointment. BALM often implies a pleasant fragrance and a comforting, restorative quality. UNGUENT is the most archaic and formal of the three, frequently appearing when the puzzle aims for a more obscure or classical feel. Understanding these subtle differences can be key to selecting the correct answer when multiple options fit the letter count.

These terms highlight the rich history of remedies and personal care. From ancient Egyptian balms used in rituals to medieval salves for wounds, 'ointments' have played a crucial role in human health and well-being for millennia. Crossword puzzles cleverly leverage this historical context to create engaging and challenging clues.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Consider the Vibe of the Clue: "Old ointment" strongly suggests an archaic or less common word. When you see adjectives like 'old,' 'ancient,' 'poetic,' or 'literary,' think beyond modern vocabulary.
Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters. This is the most crucial filter. For "old ointment," if it's 5 letters, SALVE is a strong candidate. If it's 7, UNGUENT becomes highly likely.
Cross-Reference with Intersecting Words: Don't force an answer if it doesn't fit the intersecting letters. Use the letters you already have filled in from other clues as a guide to narrow down possibilities for 'old ointment.'
Think Synonyms and Etymology: Consider words that are synonyms for ointment but might have older roots or Latin/Greek origins. Many crossword answers derive from classical languages.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What does 'old ointment' imply in a crossword?

It implies a historical or less commonly used term for a medicinal or soothing topical preparation. You're typically looking for words like SALVE, BALM, UNGUENT, or sometimes LINIMENT, rather than modern terms like cream or lotion.

Is 'balm' always a synonym for 'ointment'?

While often used interchangeably in crosswords, 'balm' usually refers to a more aromatic or soothing preparation, often with a pleasant fragrance and healing properties, whereas 'ointment' is a more general term for any unctuous topical application. In crosswords, they frequently overlap.

Why are some crossword clues so vague like 'old ointment'?

Crossword constructors use such clues to challenge solvers to think broadly, explore different word associations, and delve into less common vocabulary or historical terms. It's a way to make the puzzle more engaging and less about direct definitions, often requiring knowledge of synonyms, idioms, or literary references.