buttocks crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "buttocks crossword clue," you've come to the right place. Below you'll find all the possible answers, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "buttocks crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
BUM: An informal term for the buttocks, often used in casual conversation.
4 Letters
REAR: A common, general term for the back part of something, frequently used to refer to the buttocks.
SEAT: Refers to the part of the body one sits on, often used metaphorically for the buttocks.
5 Letters
GLUTE: A common abbreviation for "gluteus," referring to the large muscles of the buttocks.
6 Letters
HAUNCH: While often referring to the leg and loin of an animal, it can also describe the hip and buttock of a person.
8 Letters
DERRIERE: A polite, and often humorous, term for the buttocks, borrowed from French.
9 Letters
POSTERIOR: A more formal and anatomical term for the back part of the body, encompassing the buttocks area.
More About "buttocks crossword clue"
The human anatomy, especially parts like the buttocks, provides a rich source of synonyms and descriptive terms for crossword puzzle setters. The challenge often lies in discerning the specific nuance or formality level intended by the clue. For "buttocks," you might encounter anything from colloquialisms like 'BUM' to more scientific terms like 'POSTERIOR,' reflecting the diverse vocabulary of the English language.
Understanding these different registers is key to solving such clues. A casual clue might point to a short, informal answer, while a more highbrow puzzle could expect a sophisticated term. This variety keeps solvers on their toes and highlights the linguistic flexibility inherent in crossword construction.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check the Cross-References: Always look at the intersecting words. Sometimes, a few confirmed letters from another clue will immediately reveal the correct answer for "buttocks" among the many options.
- Consider the Tone: Does the puzzle feel lighthearted or serious? The overall tone of the crossword can often hint at whether a formal term like 'POSTERIOR' or a playful one like 'DERRIERE' is expected.
- Think About Context: If the clue includes other words, such as "informal" or "polite," these are direct hints. Even if not explicitly stated, the context of the puzzle itself (e.g., a daily newspaper puzzle vs. a cryptic one) can guide your choice.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do some crossword clues for "buttocks" have so many different answers?
Clues related to anatomy or body parts often have a wide range of synonyms due to varying levels of formality (e.g., 'rear' vs. 'posterior'), slang terms, or words borrowed from other languages (like 'derriere'). Crossword setters use this variety to adjust the difficulty and fit different letter counts in their puzzles.
What's a good strategy when a clue like "buttocks" has multiple short answers?
When facing a clue with many short potential answers, check the surrounding letters in the grid first. If you have an 'E' at the end, it might be 'REAR' or 'DERRIERE'. Also, consider the puzzle's theme or the setter's style; some puzzles lean towards more formal or informal language, which can help narrow down the options.
Are there any common tricks with body part clues in crosswords?
Yes, body part clues can sometimes be puns or involve wordplay. For example, a clue might refer to a 'sitting area' or a 'behind' to hint at the buttocks without directly using the word. Always be on the lookout for double meanings or phrases that aren't literal when solving such clues.