ankle bone crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "ankle bone," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find all the possible answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you across the finish line of your puzzle.
Solutions for "ankle bone crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TALUS: This is the most common and precise answer for "ankle bone." The talus is the key bone that forms the true ankle joint, connecting your lower leg bones (tibia and fibula) to your foot.
6 Letters
TARSAL: While less specific than 'talus,' 'tarsal' refers to any of the seven bones that make up the tarsus, which is the group of bones forming the ankle and upper foot. The talus itself is a tarsal bone.
10 Letters
ASTRAGALUS: This is an older, more technical anatomical term for the talus bone. You might encounter this answer in more complex or historically-themed crosswords. It's less common but a valid solution.
More About "ankle bone crossword clue"
The human ankle is a complex joint crucial for movement and stability, formed by the meeting of three bones: the tibia (shin bone), the fibula (calf bone), and the talus bone. When a crossword clue points to "ankle bone," it is almost universally referring to the talus, given its central role in the joint's function and its distinct anatomical identity.
Crossword constructors often use anatomical terms to test solvers' general knowledge. The 'ankle bone' clue is a classic example of this, offering a chance to learn about the specific bone (talus) versus the broader group of bones (tarsals) that constitute the ankle and foot. Knowing the exact number of letters needed is key to distinguishing between these closely related answers.
Occasionally, you might find clues that reference the ankle's overall structure, which could lead to answers like TARSAL or even terms related to the joint itself. Always consider the precise wording of the clue and any intersecting letters you might have already filled in.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Before considering any specific answer for "ankle bone," count the empty squares. This immediately narrows down the possibilities between TALUS (5 letters), TARSAL (6 letters), and ASTRAGALUS (10 letters).
- Look at Intersecting Letters: Use any letters you've already filled in from crossing words. These are your best friends in confirming which "ankle bone" variant fits the grid.
- Consider the Puzzle's Theme or Difficulty: Simpler puzzles often stick to common terms like TALUS. More challenging or themed crosswords might lean towards less common anatomical terms like ASTRAGALUS.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes clues are designed to trick you. While "ankle bone" points directly to the talus, keep an open mind for broader terms if the letter count or intersecting letters don't fit.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the most common crossword answer for 'ankle bone'?
The most common crossword answer for 'ankle bone' is typically TALUS, which is a five-letter word and directly refers to the specific bone at the top of the foot that articulates with the lower leg.
Are there other possible answers for 'ankle bone' in crosswords?
Yes, other answers can include TARSAL, referring to any of the ankle bones (of which the talus is one), or even the less common ASTRAGALUS, which is an older anatomical name for the talus.
How can the number of letters help me solve 'ankle bone crossword clue'?
The number of letters is crucial. If it's 5 letters, TALUS is a strong candidate. If 6 letters, TARSAL is likely. If it's longer, like 10 letters, consider ASTRAGALUS, especially in a themed or more complex puzzle.