hawks crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue 'hawks crossword puzzle clue', you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of solutions, categorized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you through your puzzle and improve your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "hawks crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
SPY: To 'hawk' can mean to observe or watch closely, similar to a spy.
FAN: Refers to a supporter of a sports team, specifically the NBA's Atlanta Hawks.
4 Letters
OWLS: Another type of nocturnal bird of prey, often linked to 'hawks' in puzzles as a general raptor category or for 'night hawks'.
6 Letters
EAGLES: A common alternative for 'hawks' in crosswords, as both are large birds of prey and symbols of strength, making them interchangeable in some contexts.
7 Letters
WARHAWK: A political term for someone who aggressively advocates for military action or war.
8 Letters
PEDDLERS: Individuals who 'hawk' or sell goods, often in a loud or persistent manner, usually on the streets or door-to-door.
More About "hawks crossword puzzle clue"
The clue "hawks" is a classic example of a crossword setter's trick, playing on the multiple meanings of a single word. While most immediately think of the majestic bird of prey, its versatility lies in its lesser-known, yet equally valid, definitions. This makes it a fascinating and sometimes frustrating clue for solvers, requiring a deep dive into vocabulary and contextual understanding.
Beyond the avian interpretation, "hawk" can refer to a political stance – a 'warhawk' being someone who advocates for aggressive foreign policy. It can also be used as a verb: to 'hawk' goods means to sell them, often loudly or persistently, as a street vendor might. Another usage, less common but still valid, is to 'hawk' a loogie, meaning to clear one's throat noisily. Recognizing these different facets is crucial for successfully tackling such clues.
Crossword constructors love words like "hawk" because they allow for clever misdirection. A clue might hint at the bird, but the answer turns out to be a political term, or vice-versa. Always consider the length of the required answer and any other words in the clue that might provide a subtle hint towards one meaning over another. This strategic thinking is what elevates a good crossword solver.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: For clues like "hawks," always think beyond the most obvious definition. Many words have homographs or multiple distinct meanings that are frequently exploited in crosswords.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters in the answer is a critical hint. If 'hawks' is a 7-letter answer, 'WARHAWK' is far more likely than 'EAGLES' (6 letters), even if both relate to the bird theme.
- Look for Context Clues: Pay close attention to other words in the clue. Is there a mention of politics, trade, or sports? These context words will help narrow down which meaning of "hawk" is intended.
- Fill in Crossing Words First: If you're stuck on a tricky clue like "hawks," try solving the words that cross it. Even a few letters can reveal the intended meaning or the exact word that fits.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is "hawks" a common crossword clue?
The clue "hawks" is popular because it has multiple meanings: a type of bird, a political stance (warhawk), and a verb meaning to sell or to watch closely. This versatility allows constructors to create challenging clues that require solvers to consider different contexts.
What are common alternative meanings for "hawk" in crosswords?
Beyond the bird, "hawk" can refer to a political "warhawk" (someone advocating for war), the act of "hawking" goods (selling aggressively), or to "hawk" a loogie (clear one's throat). It can also subtly refer to someone who watches closely, like a 'hawk' in a more metaphorical sense.
How do I know which meaning of "hawk" is intended by the clue?
The key is the wordplay and context. Look at the number of letters for the answer. Are there other words in the clue that hint at politics, selling, observation, or even sports (like the NBA team, Atlanta Hawks)? For example, 'Bird of prey' points to the animal, 'Warlike type' points to 'WARHAWK', and 'Street vendor' might lead to 'PEDDLERS'.