crossword clue bristle – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "bristle", you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible solutions, organized by letter count, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "crossword clue bristle" by Letter Count
4 Letters
FUME: To show intense anger or irritation, often by becoming stiff or agitated, mirroring how hair might bristle.
RISE: To stand up, as hair or fur might when a creature bristles in response to a threat or emotion.
HAIR: A single strand or mass of fine, threadlike strands growing from the skin, which can "bristle" or stand on end.
5 Letters
SPIKE: A thin, pointed piece of metal or wood, or something resembling it; can be used as a verb meaning to rise sharply, or as a noun referring to something that bristles.
QUILL: A stiff, sharp, hollow spine or hair, especially one from a porcupine or hedgehog, directly relating to the idea of bristling.
More About "crossword clue bristle"
"Bristle" is a versatile word that often appears in crosswords due to its multiple meanings. Primarily, it refers to a short, stiff hair or filament, like those found on a brush. However, its use as a verb is equally common, often implying a reaction of anger or defensiveness, where one's hair or posture literally "bristles" or stiffens. This duality makes it a favorite for setters, allowing for clues that range from literal descriptions of objects to metaphorical expressions of emotion.
Understanding the context is key when solving a clue like "bristle." Is the clue asking for a noun (the hair itself) or a verb (the action of becoming angry or standing on end)? Sometimes, it can even refer to something being densely covered with sharp points, like a "bristling" array of defenses. Paying attention to the surrounding words in the clue and the number of letters provided will help narrow down the possibilities, leading you to the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: Does "bristle" imply an emotion, a physical characteristic, or an action? This can guide you towards words like FUME (emotion) or QUILL (physical characteristic).
- Consider Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. If "bristle" requires a four-letter word, you can quickly eliminate longer options like QUILL.
- Look for Synonyms and Antonyms: Sometimes clues use indirect synonyms or even antonyms that imply the opposite of bristling (e.g., to smooth down). Thinking broadly about related concepts can help.
- Check for Homographs: Be mindful of words that are spelled the same but have different meanings or parts of speech (e.g., bristle as a noun vs. bristle as a verb).
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'bristle' mean in a crossword context?
'Bristle' in crosswords often refers to hair or fur standing on end, usually due to anger, fear, or a reaction. It can also mean to show sudden anger or irritation (like 'fume') or to be thickly covered with something stiff and prickly.
Are there common synonyms for 'bristle' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include FUME, RISE, HAUL (as in 'haul oneself up'), STIFFEN, and SPIKE. The specific answer depends on the number of letters required and the nuance of the clue.
Can 'bristle' refer to objects, not just living things?
Absolutely. 'Bristle' can describe a surface covered with short, stiff hairs or points, such as a brush or a plant. For example, a 'bristling' forest could imply dense, sharp undergrowth or trees.