mourning clothes crossword – All Crossword Answers
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Solutions for "mourning clothes crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
WEEDS: Often used in crosswords as a historical or literary term for mourning attire, derived from "widow's weeds."
BLACK: The traditional color associated with mourning, commonly used to describe mourning attire.
11 Letters
WIDOWSWEEDS: The full archaic term for the dark garments worn by a widow during a period of mourning.
More About "mourning clothes crossword"
Mourning clothes, or attire worn during a period of bereavement, carry significant cultural and historical weight. In Western traditions, black has been the predominant color since at least the Roman Empire, symbolizing the absence of light or the sorrow of loss. The term "widow's weeds" refers specifically to the somber garments worn by a widow, with "weeds" being an archaic word for clothing.
Crossword puzzles often use these terms to test solvers' knowledge of historical vocabulary, literary references, and cultural traditions. Clues related to mourning clothes can be straightforward, asking for a direct synonym, or more indirect, hinting at the color or a specific historical term. Understanding these nuances is key to cracking such clues quickly.
Beyond the literal meaning, these clues sometimes tap into the symbolism of mourning, requiring a broader understanding of how various cultures express grief through dress. While black is globally recognized, some cultures use white, purple, or other colors, though crosswords typically stick to the most common Western associations unless specified.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Archaic Terms: For clues like "mourning clothes," be prepared for older, less common synonyms such as "WEEDS" or "WIDOWSWEEDS." Crossword setters love to include these historical terms.
- Think About Associations: If a short answer is needed, consider the most prominent color or symbol associated with the clue. For "mourning clothes," "BLACK" is a very common short answer due to its strong association.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters. This can quickly narrow down your options between a short common answer like "WEEDS" and a longer, more specific one like "WIDOWSWEEDS."
- Context is Key: Pay attention to any additional words in the clue. Words like "old-fashioned," "archaic," or "traditional" can strongly hint towards less common vocabulary.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common short answers for "mourning clothes" in crosswords?
Common short answers often include 'WEEDS' (referring to 'widow's weeds') or 'BLACK', as black is the traditional color of mourning attire.
Why are mourning clothes sometimes referred to as 'weeds'?
The term 'weeds' in this context is an archaic word for garments or clothing, particularly those worn by a widow in mourning. It's often seen in historical or literary contexts.
Are mourning clothes always black in crosswords?
While black is the most traditional and common color, crosswords might occasionally refer to other subdued colors associated with mourning in different cultures or historical periods, though 'BLACK' is the most frequent direct answer relating to color.