bristle crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "bristle crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FUME: To show intense annoyance or anger, often indicated by a physical reaction akin to bristling.
RAGE: To express extreme anger, a strong emotional state where one might 'bristle' with fury.
HAIR: Referring to the short, stiff hairs themselves, which are the physical manifestation of bristles.
5 Letters
REACT: To respond or behave in a particular way in response to something, often sharply or defensively, causing one to 'bristle'.
SPIKE: Something sharp and pointed that sticks up, similar to a bristle. Can also imply a sudden upward trend or increase, like one's temper 'spiking'.
More About "bristle crossword puzzle clue"
The word "bristle" is a versatile clue in crosswords due to its multiple meanings. It can refer to the stiff, coarse hair found on animals or brushes, or it can describe a sudden defensive or angry reaction. This duality often makes it a tricky clue, as solvers must discern whether the puzzle demands a literal or figurative interpretation.
When "bristle" appears in a clue, consider the context. Is it paired with words suggesting anger, like "show temper" or "get mad"? Then answers like FUME or RAGE are likely. If it's linked to physical descriptions like "stiff hair" or "brush part," then HAIR is a strong candidate. Crossword constructors love these kinds of words because they offer opportunities for clever misdirection.
Understanding the nuances of "bristle" can significantly improve your solve rate. Always think about homonyms and synonyms, and how they might fit the letter count. For instance, "bristle" might lead you to think of 'SPIKE' (a sharp point) or 'REACT' (a sharp response), both of which relate to its core meanings.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is Key: For clues like "bristle," always look at surrounding words in the clue for hints. Words like "with anger" or "on a brush" can quickly point you to the correct meaning.
- Count Your Letters: Before even thinking of an answer, check the required letter count. This immediately narrows down possibilities for ambiguous clues like "bristle."
- Check Intersecting Words: The most reliable way to confirm a tricky answer is by seeing how it fits with other solved words in the grid. If it creates impossible letter combinations for intersecting clues, your "bristle" answer is likely wrong.
- Think Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm synonyms for each meaning of "bristle." For example, 'fume', 'rage', 'hair', 'quill', 'spine'. This expands your options.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bristle' mean in a crossword puzzle context?
'Bristle' can refer to several things: stiff hair (like on a brush), to stand on end (like hair or fur when agitated), or to show sudden anger or indignation (as in 'to bristle with rage'). Its meaning can vary greatly depending on the surrounding clues and context of the puzzle.
How can I tell if 'bristle' refers to hair or an emotion?
Check the number of letters required and any intersecting words. If the answer is 'HAIR', it likely refers to the physical bristles. If it's 'FUME' or 'RAGE', it points to the emotional meaning. Look for synonyms in other clues or the puzzle's theme.
Are there common synonyms for 'bristle' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms or related terms often used as answers include: 'FUME', 'RAGE', 'HAIR', 'QUILL', 'SPINE', 'REACT', 'ERUPT', 'CHAFE', 'SEETHE'. The specific answer depends on the desired length and precise nuance of the clue.