hound crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the clue "hound crossword clue", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, organized by letter count, along with clear explanations to help you understand the context.
Solutions for "hound crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
DOG: A common term for a canine, often used as a direct synonym for 'hound' in crosswords, referring to the animal.
5 Letters
CHASE: As a verb, 'to hound' means to pursue relentlessly. 'Chase' fits this perfectly as a synonym for persistent pursuit.
7 Letters
PURSUIT: Similar to 'chase,' 'pursuit' is another strong verb synonym for 'hound' when it means to follow or track persistently.
More About "hound crossword clue"
"Hound" is a versatile word in the English language and, consequently, in crossword puzzles. Its primary meanings revolve around a type of dog, known for its hunting abilities, and the act of pursuing something or someone relentlessly. When encountering this clue, it's essential to consider both the noun and verb forms as potential answers.
As a noun, 'hound' often points to generic terms like DOG or CANINE, but could also refer to specific breeds if the clue is more descriptive (though not typically for a general "hound crossword clue"). As a verb, 'to hound' suggests synonyms like CHASE, TRAIL, PURSUE, HARASS, or even DOG (when used as a verb, meaning to follow closely). The context of the clue and the number of letters provided are your best guides to determining the correct solution.
Crossword setters love words with multiple meanings, and 'hound' is a prime example. Always keep an open mind to its different interpretations to quickly solve your puzzle.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- **Analyze the Clue's Part of Speech:** Determine if "hound" is used as a noun (the animal) or a verb (the action). This is crucial for narrowing down potential answers.
- **Consider Synonyms for Both Meanings:** Brainstorm words related to dogs for the noun form (e.g., canine, mutt) and words related to pursuit or harassment for the verb form (e.g., chase, badger, pester).
- **Use Crossing Letters:** If you have letters from intersecting clues, use them to confirm or rule out potential answers. This is often the quickest way to verify a tricky solution.
- **Think About Word Length:** The number of letters in the answer is your most important hint. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and helps you focus on words that fit the grid.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between 'hound' as a noun and a verb in crosswords?
When 'hound' is used as a noun, it typically refers to a type of dog, leading to answers like DOG or specific breeds. When used as a verb, it means to pursue or harass persistently, often resulting in answers such as CHASE, PURSUE, or HARASS.
Are there common traps for 'hound' clues?
Yes, a common trap is confusing the noun and verb forms. Always check the clue's phrasing and the required letter count. For instance, a clue like 'Type of dog' will point to the noun, while 'To badger constantly' will point to the verb. Also, watch out for specific hound breeds if the clue is more detailed.
How do I know which meaning of 'hound' the crossword clue refers to?
The context provided by the clue's wording is crucial. Look for synonyms, indicators of action (verbs), or descriptions of an animal (nouns). The number of letters in the answer can also guide you, as shorter answers might be generic while longer ones could be specific synonyms or actions.