meander crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers

Q: What does 'meander' mean in a crossword context?

In crosswords, 'meander' typically refers to movement that isn't straight or direct. It can imply wandering aimlessly, following a winding path (like a river), or speaking/thinking in a circuitous way. Common synonyms sought are 'wander,' 'roam,' 'wind,' 'stray,' or 'ramble.'

Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "meander," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle.

Solutions for "meander crossword puzzle clue" by Letter Count

4 Letters

WIND: To follow a circuitous or winding course, much like a river that meanders through a landscape.

ROAM: To wander about without any definite aim or direction, similar to a meandering journey.

5 Letters

STRAY: To move away aimlessly from a group or from the right course, embodying a less directed form of meandering.

6 Letters

WANDER: To walk or move in a leisurely, casual, or aimless way, which is a direct synonym for meander.

RAMBLE: To walk aimlessly for pleasure, or to talk or write in a desultory way; both forms imply a lack of directness often associated with meandering.

More About "meander crossword puzzle clue"

"Meander" is a popular crossword clue because its meaning encompasses several related concepts: movement that is not direct, often winding or aimless, and sometimes a discursive way of speaking or thinking. The word itself comes from the ancient Greek river Maeander (now Büyük Menderes in Turkey), famous for its extremely winding course. This origin directly ties into its primary meaning of following a circuitous path.

When you see "meander" in a crossword, the setter is usually looking for a synonym related to wandering, roaming, or following a non-straight path. The specific answer will depend heavily on the number of letters and any intersecting letters you might have already filled in. It’s a versatile word that can lead to several different solutions, making it a fun challenge for puzzlers.

Beyond physical movement, 'meander' can also imply a lack of directness in thought or speech. For instance, someone might "meander through a conversation" or "their thoughts meandered." While less common in typical quick crosswords, a more complex or cryptic puzzle might explore these deeper nuances of the word, requiring a broader vocabulary. Always consider the context of the puzzle, whether it's more literal or metaphorical.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Analyze the Clue's Part of Speech: Is "meander" used as a verb (to wander) or a noun (a winding path)? This can significantly narrow down potential answers. For example, if it's a noun, "bend" or "curve" might be options.
Consider Letter Count First: Before thinking of synonyms, count the empty squares. This immediately eliminates many possibilities and helps you focus on words of the correct length.
Think of Synonyms and Antonyms: Brainstorm all words related to "meander." If it's "meander (opposite)," you'd look for words like "rush" or "straighten." For synonyms, think of various contexts: walking, rivers, conversations.
Look at Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from crossing clues. These are crucial for confirming or eliminating potential answers quickly.
Practice with Puzzles: The more crosswords you do, the more familiar you'll become with common clue patterns and answers, improving your speed and accuracy.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What does "meander" mean in a crossword context?

In crosswords, "meander" typically refers to movement that isn't straight or direct. It can imply wandering aimlessly, following a winding path (like a river), or speaking/thinking in a circuitous way. Common synonyms sought are 'wander,' 'roam,' 'wind,' 'stray,' or 'ramble.'

What are common synonyms for 'meander' used as crossword answers?

The most frequent answers for 'meander' in crosswords include WANDER, ROAM, WIND, STRAY, RAMBLE, DRIFT, and CURVE. The exact answer will depend on the number of letters required and any intersecting letters you might already have.

How can I approach clues similar to 'meander' in the future?

When encountering clues like 'meander,' think broadly about its meanings: movement without purpose, indirect paths, or even conversational style. Consider synonyms, look at the required letter count, and check if the clue's tense or part of speech (verb, noun) guides you. Often, these clues test your vocabulary for movement and direction.