altar constellation in crossword – All Crossword Answers

More About "altar constellation in crossword"

The clue "altar constellation in crossword" almost exclusively points to one specific answer: ARA. This constellation, whose name is Latin for "the Altar," is one of the 48 constellations listed by the 2nd-century astronomer Ptolemy, and it remains one of the 88 modern constellations. Its rich mythological background often links it to various altars from Greek legends, such as the altar where the gods made their vows before the war with the Titans, or the altar of King Lycaon of Arcadia.

Ara is a relatively small and faint constellation, best viewed from the Southern Hemisphere. While it doesn't contain any exceptionally bright stars, it is home to several notable deep-sky objects, including globular clusters and nebulae, making it a point of interest for astronomers. Its direct translation from Latin makes it a favorite for crossword constructors looking for a specific, yet not overly obscure, celestial body.

For crossword enthusiasts, understanding common Latin terms or mythological references can often unlock tricky clues like this. 'Ara' is a prime example of a clue that relies on a direct translation or a specific piece of historical or mythological knowledge.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

• Know Your Latin: Many crossword clues, especially those relating to astronomy, botany, or anatomy, use Latin terms. Familiarizing yourself with common Latin roots or direct translations can be a huge advantage, as seen with "Ara" for "altar."
• Reference Specific Nouns: For clues involving specific constellations, rivers, mountains, or historical figures, don't hesitate to use a quick online search or a specialized reference book if you're drawing a blank. These are often "knowledge-based" clues rather than wordplay.
• Check Crossing Letters: Always use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words to confirm your answer. Even if you're confident, a single incorrect letter can throw off an entire section of your puzzle.
• Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes a clue might point to a less common aspect or a direct translation of a name, rather than the most famous associated term. For "altar constellation," while you might think of Orion or Ursa Major, the "altar" part specifically guides you to Ara.

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