crossword clue precipitous – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "precipitous" and need a quick solution, you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by their length, along with explanations to help you understand the nuances of the word.
Solutions for "crossword clue precipitous" by Letter Count
5 Letters
STEEP: Meaning a sharply rising or falling gradient. Often used for cliffs or hills.
SHEER: Describing a cliff or wall that is perpendicular or very nearly so. A synonym for very steep.
6 Letters
ABRUPT: Can mean sudden or unexpected, but also physically steep or sharp in descent.
8 Letters
HEADLONG: Implying a rapid, uncontrolled, and often precipitous forward movement or fall.
8 Letters
DIZZYING: Describing something so high or steep as to cause a sensation of giddiness.
More About "crossword clue precipitous"
The word "precipitous" often appears in crosswords due to its dual meanings, making it a favorite for setters looking to challenge solvers. Primarily, it means extremely steep, like a cliff or a sharp incline. This is the sense that gives us answers like STEEP or SHEER, evoking images of dramatic landscapes.
However, "precipitous" also carries the meaning of being done very suddenly or without careful consideration, i.e., hasty or rash. This secondary meaning can lead to answers like ABRUPT or even HEADLONG, suggesting an action taken too quickly. Recognizing which meaning the clue is hinting at is key to selecting the correct answer. The etymology from Latin 'praecipito' (to cast headlong) perfectly encapsulates both senses.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: Always use the given number of letters as your primary filter. It's the most powerful clue in any crossword. For "precipitous," knowing whether you need a 5-letter or 8-letter word immediately narrows your options significantly.
- Consider Dual Meanings: Many words, like "precipitous," have multiple definitions. If an obvious synonym for "steep" doesn't fit, consider the "hasty" or "sudden" interpretations. This is a common trick used by crossword setters.
- Look for Contextual Hints: Pay attention to other words in the clue. If the clue mentions a "cliff" or "slope," the "steep" meaning is more likely. If it talks about a "decision" or "action," the "hasty" meaning might be the target.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "precipitous" typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, "precipitous" most commonly refers to something very steep, like a cliff or slope. However, it can also refer to something done suddenly or hastily, without due consideration, depending on the nuance of the clue.
Are there multiple meanings for the word "precipitous" that are relevant to crosswords?
Yes, "precipitous" has two main meanings: 1) extremely steep, like a precipice, and 2) sudden, hasty, or rash. Crossword setters often play on both meanings, so consider the full context of the clue.
How can I quickly find synonyms for challenging words like "precipitous"?
Beyond a traditional thesaurus, online crossword dictionaries and synonym tools can be very helpful. Pay attention to the number of letters required for the answer, as this is your biggest clue. Also, look for any other words in the clue that might narrow down the specific meaning being sought (e.g., 'cliff' suggests steepness, 'decision' suggests hastiness).