crossword clue heathen – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for solutions to the crossword clue "heathen," you've come to the right place. We've compiled the most common answers along with explanations to help you complete your puzzle quickly and accurately, regardless of the word length needed.
Solutions for "crossword clue heathen" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PAGAN: A person holding religious beliefs other than those of the main world religions; often associated with polytheistic traditions.
7 Letters
INFIDEL: A person who does not believe in religion or who adheres to a religion other than one's own. This term often carries a pejorative connotation.
GENTILE: A person who is not Jewish. Historically, it has also been used more broadly to refer to non-Christians or non-Muslims.
More About "crossword clue heathen"
The term "heathen" has a rich and complex history, often used to describe those outside of a specific religious or cultural group, typically from a monotheistic perspective. In crosswords, it frequently serves as a prompt for words like PAGAN, INFIDEL, or GENTILE, all of which convey a sense of 'otherness' in religious or cultural terms.
Understanding the nuances of these related terms can be key to solving the clue. While "PAGAN" often refers to followers of polytheistic or pre-Christian spiritual traditions, "INFIDEL" implies a lack of faith or adherence to a different faith, and "GENTILE" specifically denotes a non-Jew. The context of the crossword puzzle, especially any intersecting letters, will guide you to the precise answer.
Crossword setters enjoy using words like "heathen" because they offer multiple valid answers depending on the required length and can subtly test a solver's vocabulary depth concerning historical and religious terminology.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters required for the answer. This is the single most important clue to narrow down possibilities when multiple words fit the definition.
- Look for Intersecting Letters: Use letters from already solved cross-clues. These "check letters" will quickly confirm or rule out potential answers for "heathen."
- Consider Nuance: While "heathen" has a general meaning, some answers like GENTILE are more specific. If other clues in the puzzle hint at a particular historical or religious context, it might guide your choice.
- Think Synonyms & Antonyms: For clues like "heathen," consider its synonyms (like ungodly, unbaptized) and antonyms (like believer, devout) as these mental exercises can sometimes spark the correct answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the term 'heathen' typically imply in crosswords?
In crosswords, 'heathen' often implies someone who is not part of a dominant or established religion. Common answers include PAGAN, INFIDEL, or GENTILE, depending on the specific nuance or letter count required.
Are 'heathen' and 'pagan' interchangeable in crossword clues?
Often, yes. 'PAGAN' is a very common answer for 'heathen' clues due to the historical association of the term 'heathen' with polytheistic or non-Abrahamic belief systems, which 'pagan' also describes.
How can I identify the correct 'heathen' answer from multiple possibilities?
The key is to use the number of letters provided for the answer. For example, if the clue specifies a 5-letter word, PAGAN is likely. If it's 7 letters, INFIDEL or GENTILE are possibilities. Also, consider any crossing letters you've already filled in.