female bird nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Stuck on the clue "female bird" from the New York Times crossword? You've landed on the right page! We've got the most common answers and helpful explanations to get you back on track and solving with confidence.
Solutions for "female bird nyt crossword" by Letter Count
3 Letters
HEN: A common term for an adult female bird, especially domestic fowl like chickens, turkeys, and ducks. This is by far the most frequent answer for 'female bird' clues.
6 Letters
PEAHEN: The specific term for a female peacock. While 'HEN' is general, 'PEAHEN' is a precise fit for a female of a particular bird species often featured in crosswords.
More About "female bird nyt crossword"
The clue "female bird" is a classic in the world of crosswords, often appearing in the New York Times puzzle due to its straightforward nature and common answers. While seemingly simple, it can sometimes trip up solvers if they're looking for something overly complex or specific. The beauty of this clue lies in its directness, usually pointing to a universally recognized term.
Most frequently, the answer is 'HEN,' a three-letter word that fits snugly into many grids. This is because 'hen' is the generic term for an adult female of many bird species, particularly those in poultry farming. However, clever constructors might occasionally throw in 'PEAHEN' when they need a longer word, or if the surrounding clues hint at something more specific than just a general female bird. Understanding these common patterns is key to quickly filling in such slots.
By providing a clear, concise answer and explanation, we aim to not only help you solve the immediate puzzle but also to build your recognition of these recurring crossword tropes. Knowing that 'HEN' is a go-to for 'female bird' and 'PEAHEN' for a specific, longer variant will make your future solving sessions much smoother.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Commonality: For general clues like "female bird," start with the most common and shortest answers (like HEN) before moving to more specific or longer terms.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters in the grid. This is your primary hint for whether it's a short word like HEN or a longer one like PEAHEN.
- Context is Key: While "female bird" is broad, other clues in the crossing words can eliminate possibilities or confirm your suspicions. If a crossing clue is related to a specific bird, that might hint at a more precise answer.
- Think Barnyard: Many animal-related clues, especially in the NYT, gravitate towards common farm animals. "Female bird" often points to domestic fowl.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is "HEN" such a common crossword answer for "female bird"?
The term "HEN" is widely used for adult female poultry like chickens, ducks, and turkeys. Its short length (3 letters) and commonality make it a frequent and convenient fit for crossword puzzles, especially in the New York Times.
Are there other specific terms for female birds often found in crosswords?
Yes, beyond 'HEN', you might encounter 'PEAHEN' (a female peacock), which is a common crossword staple. While less frequent for a generic 'female bird' clue, specific species might hint at terms like 'DUCK' or 'GOOSE' if the context specifies a female of that species (though these terms often refer to both sexes).
How do I identify a female bird clue in the NYT crossword?
Look for direct indicators like 'female bird,' 'poultry female,' or 'barnyard female.' Sometimes, the clue might refer to a specific type, like 'peacock's mate' for PEAHEN. Consider the number of letters and how it fits with common female animal terms, keeping in mind the NYT's propensity for common, well-known words.