closes crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "closes," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the perfect solution. Dive in and complete your puzzle with ease!
Solutions for "closes crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
ENDS: Often used when a meeting, period, or event concludes or finishes.
5 Letters
SHUTS: A direct synonym for closing something, such as a door, window, or business.
SEALS: To close something tightly, often to make it airtight, waterproof, or secure, like a letter or a container.
6 Letters
CLAMPS: To fasten or hold tightly with a clamp or similar device, effectively closing its grip around something.
7 Letters
LATCHES: To secure a door, gate, or window with a latch, implying a closing and fastening action.
9 Letters
COMPLETES: To bring something to an end or a finished state; a more abstract way of 'closing' a task, project, or cycle.
More About "closes crossword clue"
"Closes" is a versatile word in crosswords, often appearing in many contexts, making it a favorite for setters. Its commonality stems from the multiple meanings it can convey: from the literal act of shutting an opening to the figurative act of concluding an event or a business deal. Understanding these nuances is key to selecting the correct answer among similar-length options.
When you encounter "closes" in a crossword, think about the broader context of the puzzle. Is it a wordplay clue? Is it part of a themed puzzle? Sometimes, the answer might be an idiom or a less common synonym that perfectly fits the grid and the specific phrasing of the clue. Always consider synonyms related to finishing, sealing, or bringing something to an end.
The clue can also hint at a specific type of 'closure.' For example, 'closes a book' might lead to 'SHUTS,' while 'closes a deal' might lead to 'FINISHES' or 'SEALS.' Pay attention to any preceding or succeeding words in the clue that might narrow down the meaning significantly.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always start by counting the boxes. This immediately narrows down the possibilities and eliminates many incorrect answers. For "closes," a 4-letter answer like ENDS is very different from a 9-letter answer like COMPLETES.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think about words that mean the same as "closes" (like SHUTS, SEALS, ENDS) but also their opposites. Sometimes, the clue might be a cryptic hint at an antonym.
- Look for Homophones or Puns: Crossword setters love wordplay. "Closes" could be a homophone for something else, or part of a pun. If a direct synonym doesn't fit, consider these linguistic tricks.
- Context is Key: Read the entire clue carefully. "Closes down a shop" leads to different answers than "Closes an argument." The surrounding words provide vital context for the specific meaning of "closes" intended by the setter.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'closes' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'closes' often found in crosswords include SHUTS, ENDS, SEALS, LIDS, CAPS, BOLTS, and FASTENS. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and the nuance of the clue.
How can the number of letters help solve 'closes' clues?
Knowing the number of letters is crucial. For example, if it's a 4-letter answer, 'ENDS' or 'LIDS' are possibilities. If it's 5 letters, 'SHUTS' or 'SEALS' might fit. Longer answers like 'COMPLETES' (9 letters) or 'SECURES' (7 letters) indicate a more specific or descriptive sense of closing.
Are there different interpretations of 'closes' in crosswords?
Yes, 'closes' can have multiple interpretations. It can mean physically shutting something (e.g., a door), ending an event (e.g., a meeting), completing a task (e.g., closing a deal), or making something secure (e.g., sealing an envelope). Always consider the context of the puzzle to determine the intended meaning.