mortify nyt crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the "mortify" clue from a New York Times crossword, you've come to the right place. We provide all possible solutions based on letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track.
Solutions for "mortify nyt crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
SHAME: To cause someone to feel shame or great embarrassment.
ABASE: To behave in a way that demeans or degrades (someone).
6 Letters
HUMBLE: To cause someone to feel less important or proud; to abase.
APPALL: To greatly dismay or horrify.
7 Letters
CHASTEN: To have a humbling or subduing effect on.
9 Letters
EMBARRASS: To cause (someone) to feel awkward, self-conscious, or ashamed.
More About "mortify nyt crossword clue"
The word "mortify" carries a strong sense of humiliation and deep shame. In a New York Times crossword, clues related to "mortify" often aim for synonyms that evoke this feeling. While it can literally mean to "kill" or "subdue" (as in "mortify the flesh"), in crosswords, especially modern ones, it almost exclusively refers to causing someone profound embarrassment or to feeling extremely ashamed.
NYT crossword constructors love to play on the various shades of meaning a word can have. For "mortify," this means you'll usually be looking for words like SHAME, HUMBLE, or EMBARRASS. Sometimes, a more archaic or figurative sense might be hinted at, leading to answers like ABASE or CHASTEN, which imply a humbling or subduing experience rather than just social awkwardness.
Always consider the context of the puzzle, the other crossing words, and the specific wording of the clue to pinpoint the exact nuance intended. This common clue offers a good example of how synonyms, even close ones, can have subtle differences that define the correct answer.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: This is your primary tool. If the clue "mortify" has an 8-letter slot, eliminate all 5-letter or 6-letter possibilities immediately.
- Check Crossing Words: Never rely on just one clue. The letters you fill in from other clues will confirm or deny your answer for "mortify." Even one correct crossing letter can be the key.
- Think Synonyms: For verbs like "mortify," brainstorm a list of synonyms. Consider both direct equivalents (embarrass, shame) and more nuanced ones (humble, abase, chasten).
- Consider the Puzzle's Era/Theme: While less common for a clue like "mortify," some older puzzles or themed puzzles might use more obscure or archaic meanings. The NYT typically uses modern English.
- Don't Be Afraid to Leave Blanks: If you're unsure, move on to other clues and come back. Filling in surrounding answers often makes the trickier ones clear.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'mortify' typically mean in a crossword clue?
In crosswords, 'mortify' usually refers to causing deep embarrassment, humiliation, or shame. It can also imply a sense of deep disappointment or dismay, making it important to consider context and letter count.
Are there common synonyms for 'mortify' used in NYT puzzles?
Yes, common synonyms that often appear as answers include SHAME, HUMBLE, EMBARRASS, and sometimes less direct synonyms like ABASH or CHASTEN, depending on the nuance of the clue.
How can I distinguish between multiple possible answers for 'mortify'?
The key is to use the number of letters provided by the grid. If 'mortify' is a 5-letter answer, 'SHAME' or 'ABASE' are good candidates. If it's 6 letters, 'HUMBLE' or 'APPALL' might fit. Always check the crossing letters to confirm your choice.