auricle crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! Here you'll find comprehensive solutions and explanations for the crossword clue "auricle crossword clue". We've gathered all possible answers, categorized by their letter count, to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "auricle crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
EAR: Part of the body, specifically the outer ear, that collects sound.
5 Letters
PINNA: The visible part of the outer ear, also known as the auricle.
6 Letters
ATRIUM: An upper chamber of the heart, sometimes referred to as an auricle.
More About "auricle crossword clue"
The term 'auricle' might seem obscure, but it holds two significant meanings relevant to biology and, by extension, crosswords. Most commonly, it refers to the external, visible part of the ear, which funnels sound waves into the auditory canal. This part is also known scientifically as the 'pinna'. Its unique shape is crucial for sound localization.
Less commonly known, but equally valid in a precise crossword context, 'auricle' also refers to a small, ear-shaped muscular appendage that projects from the upper part of each atrium (receiving chamber) of the heart. While not the main body of the atrium, these auricles are remnants of the embryonic heart and can sometimes be the specific anatomical detail a puzzle setter is looking for, making 'atrium' a clever alternative answer.
Understanding these dual meanings is key to tackling "auricle crossword clue" effectively. Depending on the length of the required answer and any accompanying words in the clue, you might need to consider both the common ear-related answers and the more specialized cardiac term.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: Many words, like 'auricle', have more than one meaning. Always think if the clue could be hinting at a less common or scientific definition.
- Check Letter Count First: Before you even think of an answer, check the required number of letters. This immediately narrows down the possibilities and can guide you towards 'EAR', 'PINNA', or 'ATRIUM' for 'auricle'.
- Look for Context Clues: Does the puzzle have a theme (e.g., medical, body parts, music)? This can often hint at which meaning of a word is intended. For instance, a medical-themed puzzle might lean towards 'ATRIUM'.
- Use Common Crossword Patterns: Some clues have predictable answers. 'Ear' is a very common short answer for anything related to hearing or the external ear in puzzles.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an auricle in a crossword puzzle context?
In crosswords, 'auricle' most commonly refers to the outer part of the ear. However, it can also refer to a small, ear-shaped appendage of each atrium of the heart, so 'atrium' is also a valid answer in some puzzles.
Why might "EAR" be an answer for "auricle"?
While 'auricle' is a more technical term, 'EAR' is the common, simpler word for the external organ of hearing. Crossword setters often use scientific or less common terms to hint at a more common answer, especially for shorter word lengths.
Are there other body parts commonly referred to as auricles in crosswords?
Yes, beyond the outer ear (pinna), the term 'auricle' is also used to describe a small, conical, or ear-shaped muscular pouch that projects from the upper anterior part of each atrium of the heart. Therefore, 'ATRIUM' can also be a correct answer depending on the clue's specific nuance.