beldames nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "beldames nyt crossword," you've come to the right place. We've compiled all the possible answers to help you complete your puzzle quickly and easily.
Solutions for "beldames nyt crossword" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HAGS: Often used in crosswords to refer to old, ugly, or malicious women, fitting the archaic meaning of beldames.
6 Letters
CRONES: Similar to hags, typically describing withered old women, frequently with sinister or supernatural associations.
7 Letters
WITCHES: In older literature and folklore, beldames can directly refer to witches or sorceresses, making this a common and fitting crossword answer.
More About "beldames nyt crossword"
"Beldames" is an archaic term, predominantly found in literature and poetry, referring to an old woman. While it can sometimes denote an old woman who was formerly beautiful, in a crossword context, and particularly when paired with words like "NYT," it often leans towards the more common usage implying a hag or a witch. This dual meaning allows for various interpretations in crossword puzzles.
Understanding the nuances of such words is key to mastering crosswords. The New York Times crossword, known for its cleverness and occasional use of less common vocabulary, frequently tests solvers' knowledge of synonyms and word origins. Recognizing that "beldames" can lead to answers like HAGS, CRONES, or WITCHES demonstrates a strong grasp of both lexicon and crossword strategy.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider archaic meanings: Many crossword clues use words with old or less common definitions. Always think about alternative meanings, especially for seemingly straightforward terms.
- Check intersecting letters: If you have multiple possible answers for a clue, use the letters from intersecting words to confirm which one fits perfectly in your grid. This is the most reliable method to narrow down options.
- Look for pluralization: If the clue is plural (e.g., "beldames"), the answer will almost certainly be plural too (e.g., HAGS, CRONES, WITCHES). Always match the number.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'beldames' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'beldames' typically refers to old women, often with negative or supernatural connotations. Common answers include synonyms like HAGS, CRONES, or WITCHES, depending on the letter count and surrounding clues. It's an archaic term for an old woman, sometimes beautiful but more often implying a hag or witch.
Why are there multiple answers for one crossword clue like 'beldames'?
Crossword clues can have multiple valid answers due to synonyms, different interpretations, or varying puzzle themes. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and how it fits with the intersecting words in the puzzle. Our page provides all known possibilities to help you find the correct one for your specific puzzle.
How can I improve my New York Times crossword skills?
To improve your NYT crossword skills, practice regularly, learn common crosswordese (words frequently appearing in puzzles), pay attention to clue subtleties like 'possibly' or 'briefly', and utilize resources like this site when you're stuck. Understanding common themes and constructors' styles can also give you an edge.