crossword clue threadbare – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "threadbare," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of answers, sorted by letter count, along with explanations to help you complete your crossword puzzle.
Solutions for "crossword clue threadbare" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WORN: Describing something used so much that it has lost its original quality or material, often to the point of showing damage.
6 Letters
SHABBY: Showing signs of wear and tear; poorly kept or dilapidated in appearance, often implying an old and worn state.
FRAYED: (Of a fabric, rope, or other material) unraveled or worn at the edge, indicating significant wear.
7 Letters
HAGGARD: While primarily describing a person looking exhausted and unwell, it can metaphorically imply a 'worn' or 'exhausted' appearance, making it a possible synonym for 'threadbare' in some contexts, particularly for an older, worn object.
8 Letters
TATTERED: Old and torn; in poor condition due to age or heavy use, very similar in meaning to threadbare.
More About "crossword clue threadbare"
"Threadbare" is a vivid adjective that paints a picture of something that has seen better days. Originating from textiles, it literally refers to fabric that is so worn that the threads are visible. In crosswords, this clue often points to answers related to age, extensive use, or a state of neglect. Beyond clothing, it can describe ideas or arguments that have lost their freshness or impact due to overuse, making them seem cliched or trite.
When encountering "threadbare" in a puzzle, consider its literal meaning of wear and tear, but also its metaphorical applications. Are you looking for a word describing an old coat, an overused joke, or perhaps an impoverished appearance? The versatility of this word allows for a range of solutions, making it a favorite among crossword setters for its descriptive power.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- **Brainstorm Synonyms Broadly:** "Threadbare" has many synonyms. Don't limit yourself to just clothes-related terms. Think about anything that is worn, old, or tired, whether it's an object, a concept, or even a person's appearance.
- **Consider Related Concepts:** Sometimes, clues hint at a characteristic rather than a direct synonym. For "threadbare," think about what causes something to become threadbare (e.g., wear, age) or what its consequence might be (e.g., poverty, dilapidation).
- **Utilize Letter Patterns:** If you've filled in a few letters from crossing words, use those existing letters to narrow down possibilities. A four-letter word beginning with 'W' for "threadbare" quickly brings 'WORN' to mind.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "threadbare" typically imply in crosswords?
In crosswords, "threadbare" usually points to words related to wear, dilapidation, poverty, or a lack of freshness or originality. Common synonyms include worn, old, shabby, or torn.
Are there common word lengths for "threadbare" answers?
Answers for 'threadbare' can vary significantly in length. You might find shorter answers like 'WORN' (4 letters) or 'OLD' (3 letters), as well as longer ones such as 'SHABBY' (6 letters) or 'TATTERED' (8 letters). Always consider the available letter slots in your puzzle.
How can I distinguish between "threadbare" and "worn out" clues?
While similar, 'threadbare' often specifically refers to fabric or clothing showing the threads due to excessive wear. 'Worn out' is a broader term that can apply to objects, ideas, or even people who are simply exhausted or used up. Pay attention to the surrounding clues or any thematic elements in the puzzle to discern the specific nuance.