crossword clue defeat – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "defeat," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get your puzzle solved quickly.
Solutions for "crossword clue defeat" by Letter Count
3 Letters
WIN: To gain a victory over an opponent, essentially defeating them.
4 Letters
BEAT: To overcome in a contest or struggle.
ROUT: To defeat and cause to retreat in disorder.
LICK: (Informal) To defeat thoroughly.
BEST: To defeat or surpass (someone) in a competition.
5 Letters
WORST: To get the better of; defeat comprehensively.
THUMP: (Informal) To defeat heavily.
ROUTE: Another spelling for 'rout'; to put to flight in disorder.
6 Letters
SUBDUE: To overcome, quieten, or bring under control (a feeling or person).
TOPPLE: To cause to fall, especially by losing balance. Can refer to defeating a leader or government.
7 Letters
CONQUER: To overcome and take control of (a place or people) by military force, or to successfully overcome a problem.
CLOBBER: (Informal) To hit (someone or something) hard, or to defeat comprehensively.
8 Letters
OVERCOME: To defeat (an opponent or a difficulty).
VANQUISH: To defeat thoroughly.
9 Letters
OVERTHROW: To remove from power; defeat, especially by force.
OVERPOWER: To overcome by superior force.
More About "crossword clue defeat"
The clue "defeat" is a common yet versatile term in the world of crosswords, making it a favorite among puzzle setters. Its strength lies in the rich tapestry of synonyms it offers, ranging from direct actions like 'BEAT' and 'ROUT' to more nuanced or informal expressions such as 'VANQUISH' or 'CLOBBER'. This variety allows for answers across many different letter counts, fitting into various puzzle grids.
When encountering "defeat" in a crossword, consider the context if any is provided, as it can hint at the specific type of defeat—military, political, or personal. For instance, a clue like "Defeat soundly" might point to a more emphatic word like 'VANQUISH' or 'CLOBBER', while a simple "Defeat" could be satisfied by 'BEAT' or 'WIN'. Always pay attention to the surrounding letters you already have filled in, as this is often the key to narrowing down the possibilities from the many options this clue presents.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Tone: Some answers for "defeat" might be informal (e.g., THUMP, CLOBBER), while others are formal (VANQUISH). The overall tone of the puzzle or the specific clue phrasing can give a hint.
- Look for Common Prefixes/Suffixes: Many words related to "defeat" might start with 'OVER-' (OVERCOME, OVERTHROW, OVERPOWER) or end in common verb endings.
- Think of Military or Game Terms: "Defeat" often relates to battles, games, or competitions. Terms like ROUT, CONQUER, or LICK (in a competitive sense) are frequently used.
- Check for Different Parts of Speech: While "defeat" is often a verb, it can sometimes hint at a noun (a defeat). Always consider if the answer needs to be a verb or noun based on the clue's structure.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often does 'defeat' appear as a crossword clue?
The clue 'defeat' is quite common in crosswords due to its versatility and numerous synonyms, allowing for various answer lengths and contexts. It's a staple in many daily puzzles.
What are some less common synonyms for 'defeat' in crosswords?
Beyond common answers like BEAT or ROUT, look out for words like BEST (to defeat an opponent), WORST (to get the better of), or even informal terms like CLOBBER or THUMP, which add a layer of challenge.
How can I distinguish between similar answers for 'defeat'?
Pay attention to the specific phrasing of the clue. 'Defeat utterly' might suggest VANQUISH, 'defeat politically' could be OVERTHROW, while a simple 'defeat' could be BEAT or WIN. The length of the answer and surrounding letters are also crucial.