crossword clue for eccentric – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! Below you'll find all possible solutions for the clue "eccentric," categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzling skills.
Solutions for "crossword clue for eccentric" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ODD: Denoting something unusual, peculiar, or not conforming to the norm, fitting for an eccentric person.
5 Letters
WEIRD: Suggesting something very strange and unusual, often in a negative or unsettling way, but can describe eccentricity.
6 Letters
QUIRKY: Characterized by peculiar or unexpected traits, behaviors, or attitudes, often charmingly so, a mild form of eccentric.
7 Letters
UNUSUAL: Not common or ordinary; remarkable or interesting because different from or better than others, applies to an eccentric's behavior.
BIZARRE: Very strange or unusual, especially so as to cause interest or amusement. Often used for extreme eccentricity.
OFFBEAT: Unconventional; unusual. Often used to describe something or someone that is distinctly different from the norm.
8 Letters
PECULIAR: Different from what is normal or expected; strange. Often used to describe eccentric habits or individuals.
ABNORMAL: Deviating from what is normal or usual, typically in a way that is undesirable or worrying. While it can describe eccentric, it might imply a negative connotation.
13 Letters
IDIOSYNCRATIC: A long and precise term for someone or something having a peculiar or individual characteristic, often a habit or mannerism.
More About "crossword clue for eccentric"
The word "eccentric" itself comes from Medieval Latin eccentricus, meaning 'out of the center', derived from Greek ekkentros. Originally used in astronomy to describe an orbit not perfectly circular or centered, it evolved to describe people whose behavior deviates markedly from the conventional or customary. This etymological root often provides a clever twist for crossword setters, sometimes hinting at a literal 'off-center' interpretation rather than just a synonym for 'odd'.
In crosswords, clues for "eccentric" can range from straightforward synonyms like "odd" or "quirky" to more descriptive phrases that paint a picture of unusual behavior. Recognizing the tone of the clue—whether it's humorous, formal, or slightly pejorative—can help narrow down the possible answers. For instance, a clue hinting at a charmingly unusual person might lead to "QUIRKY," while one about someone truly bizarre might point to "WEIRD" or "BIZARRE."
Keep an eye out for wordplay. If the clue mentions something about circles or centers, the answer might be related to the word's original astronomical meaning. However, most common usages will refer to personality or behavior. Contextual clues from intersecting words are invaluable in confirming your chosen solution.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Tone: For "eccentric," is the clue implying a charming strangeness, a disturbing weirdness, or just a deviation from the norm? This can guide you to words like QUIRKY (charming), WEIRD (disturbing), or simply ODD.
- Count the Letters Carefully: This is the most crucial step. As shown above, "eccentric" can have answers ranging from 3 letters (ODD) to 13 letters (IDIOSYNCRATIC). A precise count immediately eliminates many possibilities.
- Consider Etymology & Wordplay: While less common for direct synonym clues, some setters might play on the 'off-center' origin of "eccentric." Always be ready for a clever turn of phrase that relates to the word's roots.
- Use Intersecting Letters: Don't force an answer. If you have a few letters from intersecting words, use them to confirm or rule out potential solutions for "eccentric."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'eccentric' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'eccentric' in crosswords often include ODD, WEIRD, QUIRKY, UNUSUAL, PECULIAR, or BIZARRE, depending on the number of letters required.
How can the number of letters help solve a clue like 'eccentric'?
Knowing the number of letters is crucial. For example, if it's a 3-letter word, ODD is a strong candidate. If it's 6 letters, QUIRKY might fit. Always use the letter count as your primary filter.
Are 'eccentric' clues usually straightforward or tricky?
Clues for 'eccentric' can be straightforward, leading to direct synonyms, or tricky, hinting at specific aspects of eccentricity like 'one not centered' (referring to the etymology) or 'oddball'. Context from intersecting words is key.