celestial altar crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "celestial altar", you've come to the right place. Below you'll find the most accurate and common solutions, along with explanations to help you understand the answer better.
Solutions for "celestial altar crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ARA: A small constellation in the southern sky, whose name is Latin for "the Altar." It is one of the 48 constellations listed by the 2nd-century astronomer Ptolemy, often depicted as a sacrificial altar with smoke rising from it.
More About "celestial altar crossword clue"
The clue "celestial altar" almost universally points to the constellation Ara. This constellation, while not as well-known as Orion or Ursa Major, holds a unique place in astronomical lore and crossword puzzles due to its direct translation and distinctive name. Located near the constellations Scorpius and Centaurus, Ara is best viewed from the Southern Hemisphere.
Mythologically, Ara is often associated with the altar built by the Cyclops before the battle between the Titans and the Olympian gods. The gods made a pact on this altar, and Zeus, grateful for their victory, placed the altar in the heavens as a constellation. Its direct connection to an 'altar' makes it a perfect fit for crossword clues seeking a 'celestial' or 'heavenly' altar.
Understanding such specific astronomical or mythological references can often unlock tricky crossword clues. Ara is a prime example of how classical knowledge, even seemingly obscure, frequently appears in puzzles, rewarding solvers who have a broad general knowledge base.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Look for astronomical connections: Clues with "celestial," "star," "planet," or "constellation" often point to specific names like ARA, ORION, MARS, or URSA.
- Consider Latin roots: Many constellation names, like Ara (Latin for altar), are derived from Latin. Knowing common Latin words can give you an edge.
- Check letter counts first: Always confirm the number of letters in the grid before committing to an answer. This immediately narrows down possibilities, making it easier to deduce the correct word.
- Use intersecting words: If you're unsure about "celestial altar," fill in any words that cross its path. The letters you confirm will provide crucial hints for the remaining squares.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'celestial altar' refer to in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'celestial altar' most commonly refers to ARA, a small constellation in the southern hemisphere representing an altar. It's a precise astronomical term often used in clues.
Are there other common crossword answers for 'altar' or 'celestial'?
While 'ARA' is specific to 'celestial altar,' 'altar' might have answers like SACRED TABLE or SHRINE depending on the context. 'Celestial' could lead to answers such as HEAVENLY, DIVINE, or ASTRAL in different clues, but 'ARA' is unique for this specific combination.
How do I confirm a crossword answer like ARA?
To confirm your answer, first check the number of letters required for the answer grid. ARA is 3 letters. Then, look at any crossing letters you've already filled in from other clues to ensure they match up correctly with the letters of ARA.