drains crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling the clue "drains" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of potential answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your grid quickly and accurately.
Solutions for "drains crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
SAPS: Removes vitality or energy from; gradually weakens.
TAPS: Draws off a liquid, often from a spigot or container.
7 Letters
EMPTIES: Removes the contents from a container, making it empty.
8 Letters
EXHAUSTS: Uses up completely; makes someone very tired or depleted.
DEPLETES: Uses up the supply or resources of something.
More About "drains crossword clue"
The word "drains" can have multiple meanings, which makes it a versatile but sometimes tricky crossword clue. It can refer to the act of removing liquid from something, as in 'draining a sink' or 'draining a swamp'. In this context, answers like EMPTIES or TAPS are highly relevant, focusing on the physical act of making something devoid of liquid.
Beyond the literal, "drains" can also imply a reduction or exhaustion of resources, energy, or vitality. For example, a difficult task might "drain" your strength, or excessive spending might "drain" your bank account. Here, answers like SAPS, EXHAUSTS, or DEPLETES come into play, highlighting the metaphorical usage of the word where something is slowly or completely used up.
When encountering "drains" in a crossword, always consider the broader context of the puzzle, the number of letters required, and any intersecting words. This multifaceted nature is what makes "drains" a fun challenge for crossword solvers, requiring you to think beyond the most obvious meaning.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Clue's Part of Speech: Is "drains" being used as a noun (referring to pipes), a verb (the act of draining), or an adjective? This can significantly narrow down your options.
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think of words that mean the same as "drains" in various contexts (e.g., 'sucks dry', 'depletes') or even its opposite if the clue is tricky.
- Look at Cross-Referenced Clues: If other clues in the puzzle hint at a related theme (e.g., plumbing, energy, finance), it can guide you to the correct interpretation of "drains".
- Check Letter Counts: Always match your potential answer's length to the required number of letters. This is the simplest way to eliminate incorrect solutions.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'drains' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'drains' in crosswords often include words related to drawing off liquid, exhausting resources, or depleting energy. Examples are SAPS, TAPS, EXHAUSTS, DEPLETES, or EMPTIES.
How does the context of 'drains' affect the crossword answer?
The context is crucial. 'Drains' could refer to a physical pipe (e.g., SEWERS), an action of removing liquid (e.g., TAPS, EMPTIES), or a metaphorical act of exhausting resources or energy (e.g., SAPS, EXHAUSTS). Always consider the surrounding clue words.
Are there plural forms of 'drain' that are common answers?
Yes, 'DRAINS' itself can be an answer if the clue refers to the plural noun (e.g., 'plumbing fixtures'). As a verb, its present tense form 'drains' can also lead to answers like SAPS or TAPS, which are also plural verbs.