descendant crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "descendant crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of answers, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your puzzle-solving skills.
Solutions for "descendant crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
HEIR: A person inheriting and continuing the legacy of a predecessor.
5 Letters
CHILD: A young human being below the age of full legal maturity, or a son or daughter of any age.
ISSUE: Children or descendants.
SCION: A descendant of a notable family.
7 Letters
PROGENY: A descendant or the descendants of a person, animal, or plant; offspring.
9 Letters
OFFSPRING: A person's child or children, or an animal's young.
More About "descendant crossword clue"
The term "descendant" in crosswords often refers to a person, animal, or plant that is descended from a particular ancestor. This can lead to a wide range of synonyms, from common terms like 'child' or 'offspring' to more formal or specific words like 'heir', 'progeny', 'issue', or 'scion'. The specific context of the crossword puzzle, including the number of letters required and any intersecting words, will guide you to the correct answer.
Understanding the nuances of these synonyms is key to mastering such clues. For instance, 'heir' implies succession, often legal or familial, while 'scion' specifically points to a descendant of a noble or distinguished family. 'Progeny' and 'offspring' are broader terms encompassing all forms of descendants. Always consider the precise meaning implied by the clue to ensure you choose the best fit.
Crossword setters love to play with these variations, sometimes using a more obscure synonym to make the puzzle challenging. By familiarizing yourself with the full spectrum of words related to 'descendant', you'll be well-prepared for any puzzle thrown your way.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The most crucial hint is always the number of letters. If you have "descendant" and need a 4-letter word, 'HEIR' is likely the only fit among common answers.
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes the clue might include subtle hints. For "descendant," phrases like "royal descendant" could point to 'SCION', or "legal descendant" towards 'HEIR'.
- Consider Plurals: Be mindful if the clue implies a singular or plural answer. "Descendant" (singular) or "descendants" (plural) could lead to different words, like 'CHILD' vs. 'CHILDREN' or 'PROGENY' (which can be both).
- Check Intersecting Letters: Always use letters from solved intersecting words to narrow down possibilities. If you have an 'F' as the second letter, 'OFFSPRING' immediately becomes a strong candidate for a 9-letter answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to approach a crossword clue like "descendant"?
When tackling clues like "descendant," consider synonyms like "offspring," "heir," "progeny," or "child." Also, pay attention to the letter count and any surrounding letters you already have, as this narrows down the possibilities significantly.
Are there common pitfalls when solving for "descendant" in crosswords?
A common pitfall is getting stuck on direct synonyms. Sometimes "descendant" can refer to a specific type, like a "SCION" (heir of a noble family) or imply a historical lineage. Always check if the clue has a broader or more specific context.
How do crosswords differentiate between singular and plural descendants?
Crossword clues will often indicate singularity or plurality through phrasing (e.g., "a descendant" vs. "descendants") or by implying a collective term (e.g., "progeny" can be singular or plural). Look for articles (a, an, the) or plural markers (s) in the clue to guide your answer.