What does 'gobsmacks' mean in a crossword context?

In crosswords, 'gobsmacks' typically refers to actions or feelings of extreme surprise, astonishment, or shock. It's looking for synonyms like 'ASTOUNDS,' 'STUNS,' or 'AMAZES.'

Why are there multiple answers for 'gobsmacks crossword'?

Many crossword clues, especially those for common verbs like 'gobsmacks,' have multiple synonyms that fit various letter counts. This allows puzzle setters flexibility, and it means solvers might need to check the length or intersecting letters to find the correct fit for their specific puzzle.

How can I quickly find answers for clues like 'gobsmacks'?

To quickly find answers, consider the clue's part of speech (e.g., verb, noun), its tense (past, present, future), and the number of letters required. Websites like Answercrossword.com provide solutions organized by letter count, making it easy to cross-reference with your puzzle.

gobsmacks crossword – All Crossword Answers

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "gobsmacks crossword," you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions categorized by their length, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.

Solutions for "gobsmacks crossword" by Letter Count

5 Letters

STUNS: To make someone unconscious or dazed, often used metaphorically for shocking surprise.

DAZES: To make someone feel confused or unable to think clearly, often from shock or a blow.

6 Letters

SHOCKS: To cause to feel surprised and upset or to experience a sudden emotional impact.

AMAZES: To fill with great surprise or wonder; astonish.

FLOORS: To overwhelm or defeat utterly; to surprise or astonish greatly.

8 Letters

ASTOUNDS: To cause a feeling of wonder or astonishment; to shock or greatly surprise.

More About "gobsmacks crossword"

"Gobsmacks" is a vivid, informal term meaning to utterly astonish or shock someone. Originating from British English, it literally refers to a blow to the mouth (gob), implying the shock is so great it feels like a physical impact. In crosswords, clues like "gobsmacks" often test your vocabulary for synonyms of surprise, astonishment, or overwhelming emotion.

When you encounter such a clue, think about the intensity of the emotion. Is it a gentle surprise or a profound shock? This can help narrow down potential answers. Also, consider the clue's tense; "gobsmacks" is present tense, so solutions should also be in the present tense (e.g., ASTOUNDS, not ASTOUNDED).

Recognizing the nuances between synonyms like 'shocks', 'stuns', and 'amazes' is key. While all imply surprise, 'shocks' can have a negative connotation, 'stuns' suggests momentary paralysis, and 'amazes' leans towards wonder and awe. The surrounding letters in your crossword will often provide the necessary context to pick the perfect fit.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Clue's Part of Speech: Is "gobsmacks" used as a verb (as it is here) or perhaps a noun? This helps you look for the right type of answer (e.g., a verb like ASTOUNDS, not a noun like ASTONISHMENT).
Check for Tense and Number: "Gobsmacks" is present tense, singular. Ensure your answer matches this. If the clue were "gobsmacked," you'd look for past tense solutions.
Use Cross-References: The most powerful crossword strategy is using intersecting letters. Fill in what you know from other clues first; these letters will quickly reveal the correct answer for "gobsmacks."
Consider British vs. American English: "Gobsmacks" is quite British. While many crosswords are universal, some clues might lean into regionalisms, so keep an open mind for less common (to you) synonyms.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most common answer for 'gobsmacks crossword'?

The most common answers often depend on the puzzle's letter count. Solutions like ASTOUNDS (8 letters), SHOCKS (6 letters), and STUNS (5 letters) are frequently encountered due to their direct synonymy with "gobsmacks."

Does the length of the answer matter for 'gobsmacks crossword'?

Absolutely! The number of letters is crucial in crosswords. Even if multiple words mean "gobsmacks," only one will fit the designated spaces in your puzzle. Always cross-reference your potential answer's length with the grid.

Can 'gobsmacks' refer to a negative feeling in crosswords?

While "gobsmacks" primarily implies strong surprise, the surprise can certainly be negative, leading to answers like SHOCKS or even APPALLS (depending on context and length). It's about the overwhelming nature of the emotion.