chills & fever crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "chills & fever", you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and improve your crossword skills.
Solutions for "chills & fever crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
FLU: A common viral infection that often presents with chills and fever.
4 Letters
AGUE: An old-fashioned term for a malarial fever, characterized by cycles of chills and fever.
6 Letters
RIGORS: Episodes of severe shivering accompanied by a sensation of coldness, often occurring at the onset of fever.
7 Letters
MALARIA: A serious disease transmitted by mosquitoes, infamous for its recurring bouts of chills and fever.
8 Letters
SYMPTOMS: Chills and fever are classic signs or indicators of an underlying medical condition or illness.
More About "chills & fever crossword clue"
The clue "chills & fever" points to a common set of physical sensations that are indicative of various health conditions, from the common cold or flu to more serious illnesses like malaria. In crosswords, this clue often appears due to the distinct and widely recognized nature of these symptoms. Solutions can range from the general medical terms to archaic or specific disease names.
Understanding the context is key. Sometimes, the clue might hint at a specific type of fever, like a malarial fever (leading to answers like AGUE), or it might simply describe the physical experience (leading to terms like RIGORS or SHIVERS). Crossword setters often enjoy using older, less common medical terms that fit specific letter counts, so familiarity with such vocabulary can be a significant advantage.
When encountering such a clue, consider both the direct causes of chills and fever and the terms that describe the sensation itself. Always pay close attention to the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you've already placed from other clues, as this will quickly narrow down the possibilities to the correct solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. For "chills & fever," a 3-letter answer might be FLU, while a 7-letter answer could be MALARIA. Always confirm your answer fits the grid's space exactly.
- Consider Synonyms & Related Terms: Think broadly about the clue. "Chills & fever" can relate to diseases, physical reactions, or general medical terms. Brainstorming synonyms for "chills" (e.g., shivers, rigors) and "fever" (e.g., temperature, ague) can unlock the answer.
- Look for Medical or Archaic Terms: Crosswords often lean on specific terminology, including older words. "AGUE" is a classic example for "chills & fever" that crossword enthusiasts should know, even if it's less common in everyday language.
- Utilize Crossings: Don't try to solve a difficult clue in isolation. Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting clues. These confirmed letters will act as vital constraints, guiding you towards the correct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'AGUE' a common answer for 'chills & fever'?
'AGUE' is an archaic but frequently used term in crosswords to refer to a malarial fever, which historically manifested with characteristic chills and fever cycles. Its short length also makes it a popular fit for many grids, making it a go-to answer for setters.
What other types of clues often relate to 'chills & fever'?
Clues might relate to diseases causing these symptoms (e.g., 'MALARIA', 'FLU'), the physical sensations themselves ('SHIVERS', 'RIGORS'), or the general category they fall under ('SYMPTOMS', 'ILLNESS'). The specific wordplay or letter count often guides the choice, and sometimes the clue might be more metaphorical.
How can I improve my chances of solving 'chills & fever' type clues?
Consider the era of language (archaic vs. modern), medical terms, and general descriptive words. Also, always check the letter count and any crossing letters you've already filled in to narrow down possibilities. Thinking about synonyms for 'chills' and 'fever' separately can also help. Expanding your general knowledge of diseases and their symptoms will also prove beneficial.