ball of yarn crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "ball of yarn crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SKEIN: A length of yarn or thread wound in a loose, long coil for knitting or weaving, commonly referred to as a 'ball of yarn' in everyday language or puzzles.
More About "ball of yarn crossword clue"
The clue "ball of yarn" is a classic in crosswords, often pointing to the word SKEIN. While a "ball" suggests a rounded shape, a skein is a specific unit of yarn that is wound into a loose, elongated coil, distinct from a tightly wound ball or a hank. This nuance is precisely what makes it a popular clue for testing a solver's vocabulary on common objects with precise names.
Understanding the different forms yarn comes in (balls, skeins, hanks, cakes) can be helpful for solving such clues. A skein is designed to prevent tangling during knitting or crocheting, making it a practical and common form found in craft stores. This connection to everyday crafting activities makes the clue relatable yet challenging enough due to the specific terminology.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider synonyms and related terms: For clues like "ball of yarn," think about related items or actions. Is there another way to describe yarn in a specific form? This helps bridge the gap between common language and crossword-specific vocabulary.
- Check the letter count carefully: Always verify the number of letters in your potential answer. Many crossword answers are unique to a specific length, narrowing down your options significantly.
- Think about context and common phrases: Sometimes clues are part of a larger phrase or idiom. For "ball of yarn," consider its common associations like cats playing with yarn, knitting, or crocheting.
- Use surrounding letters as hints: Once you have a few letters in place from intersecting words, these can often reveal the correct answer, especially for trickier clues that have multiple possible interpretations.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a skein?
A skein is a quantity of yarn or thread wound into a loose, long, and often oval-shaped coil, commonly used in knitting, crocheting, or weaving. It's one of the standard ways yarn is sold, alongside balls, hanks, and cakes.
Why is 'ball of yarn' a common crossword clue?
Crossword clues often use common everyday objects or phrases. 'Ball of yarn' is a familiar concept, and its answer 'SKEIN' is a specific, less common word for a particular form of yarn, making it a good candidate for testing vocabulary knowledge in puzzles.
Are there other terms for wound yarn in crosswords?
Yes, besides 'SKEIN', you might encounter 'CLEW' (an older term for a ball of thread or yarn, especially used in sailing for a ball of string), 'BALL', or 'HANK' (another form of wound yarn, often loosely coiled) in crosswords depending on the specific clue and letter count.