What are some common 'old English measures' found in crosswords?

Common old English measures often appearing in crosswords include ELL (a length), ROD (length, also called perch), ACRE (area), HIDE (area), ROOD (area), and FURLONG (length). These terms are often chosen for their concise nature and historical context, fitting well into puzzle grids.

Why are historical units like 'old English measures' still relevant in crosswords?

Historical units remain relevant in crosswords because they add a layer of historical and linguistic challenge. They often have short, unique spellings that fit well into grids, and their archaic nature requires solvers to delve into less common knowledge, making for a more engaging puzzle experience.

How can I remember different 'old English measures' for future crosswords?

To remember them, try associating each measure with its primary use (e.g., ELL for cloth, ROD for surveying, ACRE for land). Creating flashcards or keeping a running list of 'crossword-specific' historical terms can also be very helpful. Regular exposure to crosswords will naturally build your familiarity with such clues.

old english measure crossword – All Crossword Answers

Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the crossword clue "old english measure", you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible solutions, categorized by their length, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle.

Solutions for "old english measure crossword" by Letter Count

3 Letters

ELL: An obsolete English measure of length, roughly 45 inches, primarily used for textiles.

ROD: A traditional unit of length, also known as a pole or perch, equal to 5.5 yards or 16.5 feet, often used in land surveying.

4 Letters

ACRE: A traditional unit of land area, historically defined by the amount of land a yoke of oxen could plough in one day.

HIDE: An ancient English land measure, varying significantly but typically representing land sufficient to support a household.

ROOD: A historical unit of area, specifically one quarter of an acre, used for smaller land parcels.

YARD: A common English unit of length, equal to three feet, with origins dating back to Anglo-Saxon times.

7 Letters

FURLONG: An archaic unit of distance, equal to one-eighth of a mile or 660 feet, originating from the length of a furrow.

More About "old english measure crossword"

Old English measures provide a fascinating glimpse into historical daily life, trade, and land management. Before the standardization of the Imperial system and later the metric system, various regions and trades often used their own specific units. These measures were practical, often based on human body parts (like the ell or foot) or agricultural practices (like the acre or furlong).

Understanding these archaic units can be a fun challenge for crossword enthusiasts. Clues like "old English measure" specifically target this niche knowledge, requiring solvers to recall terms that might not be in common modern usage. They are popular in crosswords because their often short, unique spellings fit well into grid patterns and add a touch of historical flavor to the puzzle.

While some, like the yard and acre, still see limited use or remain ingrained in cultural understanding, others like the ell, rod, hide, and furlong are primarily found in historical texts, literature, and, of course, crosswords. Recognizing them not only helps complete the puzzle but also broadens one's general knowledge of history and language.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

Context is Key: Always consider the clue's context. "Old English" signals a historical term, often shorter and less common.
Check Letter Count: If you have a few letters already filled in, use the letter count provided on our page to narrow down potential answers quickly.
Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes the most common answer isn't the one fitting the clue's specific historical or niche requirement. Expand your vocabulary beyond everyday terms.
Use Cross-References: Leverage intersecting words. If an answer works perfectly for an "old English measure" clue but conflicts with another word, it's likely incorrect.

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

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an 'ell' in old English measure?

An 'ell' was a unit of length, typically around 45 inches (or a little over a meter), primarily used for measuring cloth. Its exact length varied slightly by region and period and was generally considered the length of a man's arm from shoulder to fingertips.

How big was a 'hide' of land?

A 'hide' was an old English unit of land area, whose size varied considerably depending on the productivity of the land. It was generally understood as the amount of land sufficient to support a single family or household, often ranging between 60 to 120 acres, but could be as small as 40 or as large as 240 acres in practice.

Is 'furlong' still used today?

While largely obsolete in everyday use, the 'furlong' is still occasionally heard in specific contexts, particularly in horse racing, where race distances are often quoted in furlongs. It is equal to 220 yards or one-eighth of a mile, originating from the length of a furrow in a common field.