defect crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the clue "defect crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled all possible solutions, sorted by letter count, to help you quickly complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "defect crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MAR: To impair the appearance or quality of; spoil.
4 Letters
FLAW: A slight, often unnoticeable imperfection or weakness.
5 Letters
FAULT: A bad or undesirable quality or feature; a mistake.
QUITS: Refers to ending a connection or leaving a situation, often in the phrase "call it quits."
6 Letters
DESERT: To abandon one's post or duty without permission; to leave a place or person.
7 Letters
BLEMISH: A small mark or flaw that spoils the appearance of something.
AILMENT: A minor illness or a chronic disorder, sometimes seen as a 'defect' in health.
ABANDON: To leave a place or person permanently; to cease to support or look after.
11 Letters
SHORTCOMING: A fault or failure to meet a certain standard.
12 Letters
IMPERFECTION: A fault, blemish, or undesirable feature.
More About "defect crossword clue"
"Defect" is a fascinating word in crosswords because it can function as both a noun and a verb, offering a rich array of possible answers. As a noun, it refers to a fault, imperfection, or shortcoming in something, leading to answers like FLAW, FAULT, or BLEMISH. These answers usually describe an inherent problem or an undesirable characteristic. The clue might be phrased as "An imperfection" or "Minor fault."
However, "defect" can also be a verb, meaning to abandon one's country, cause, or organization, often for an opposing one. In this context, answers like DESERT or ABANDON become relevant. Clues might hint at this meaning with phrases like "Go AWOL" or "Leave one's side." Recognizing the intended part of speech from the clue's wording is crucial for selecting the correct answer in your puzzle.
Crossword constructors love words with multiple meanings, and "defect" is a prime example. Always consider the full context of the clue, including any surrounding words or the puzzle's theme, to determine whether the clue is seeking a noun-based flaw or a verb-based act of leaving.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: "Defect" has many synonyms. Think of direct replacements or even their opposites if the clue is tricky.
- Check Word Length: Always use the given letter count as your primary filter. If the grid indicates a 5-letter word, you can immediately narrow down your options significantly.
- Identify Part of Speech: Is the clue asking for a noun (a thing, like a flaw) or a verb (an action, like to desert)? This is key for "defect" and many other versatile words.
- Look at Intersecting Letters: The letters from crossing words are your best friends. They can quickly confirm or eliminate potential answers, especially when you have multiple possibilities for a clue like "defect."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know if "defect" is a noun or a verb in the crossword clue?
The context of the clue is key. If the clue implies a noun (e.g., "An imperfection"), answers like FLAW or FAULT are likely. If it implies a verb (e.g., "To abandon one's country"), then DESERT or ABANDON would fit. Look at surrounding words in the clue for grammatical hints.
What's the best way to find a short answer like "FLAW" or "MAR" for "defect"?
When the answer is short, think of common synonyms that are concise. Also, consider the number of letters provided by the puzzle grid. Short answers are often direct synonyms with no extra descriptive words.
Can "defect" also refer to leaving a group or political party in crosswords?
Yes, absolutely! "Defect" can be used as a verb meaning to abandon one's country, cause, or organization, often for an opposing one. In crosswords, this common usage can lead to answers like DESERT or ABANDON, so always consider both the noun and verb meanings.