poison crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "poison" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of potential answers, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the perfect solution.
Solutions for "poison crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
BANE: Something that causes misery or distress, often in a corrupting way, akin to poison.
ACID: A corrosive substance, many of which are poisonous if ingested or touched.
DOPE: Slang for illicit drugs, some of which are toxic or act as poisons.
5 Letters
TOXIN: A poisonous substance produced within living cells or organisms.
VENOM: A poisonous substance, typically secreted by animals, often injected through a bite or sting.
VIRUS: While primarily an infectious agent, some viruses produce toxic effects or are commonly associated with illness, similar to a poison.
6 Letters
POTION: A liquid mixture, often with medicinal, magical, or poisonous properties.
POISON: The clue itself, sometimes a valid answer if the puzzle is self-referential or tricky.
DEADLY: Describes something capable of causing death, often used in conjunction with poisons.
7 Letters
NOXIOUS: Harmful, poisonous, or very unpleasant, especially to health.
8 Letters
TOXICANT: A poisonous substance, specifically one that causes harmful effects to a living organism.
More About "poison crossword clue"
The term "poison" in crosswords can be surprisingly versatile, extending beyond just chemical substances. While literal answers like TOXIN and VENOM are common, especially when paired with clues referencing snakes, plants, or specific chemical properties, the clue can also delve into more figurative meanings.
For instance, "poison" might refer to something that corrupts, spoils, or destroys morally or emotionally. In this context, answers like BANE fit perfectly, describing something that causes great distress or ruination. Consider the nuance of the clue: is it asking for a substance, an effect, or a figurative concept? Paying attention to surrounding letters and the overall theme of the puzzle can often provide the crucial hint needed to distinguish between these interpretations.
Always think broadly when tackling such clues. The crossword setter might be looking for a term related to the act of poisoning (like LETHAL or DEADLY), or even a type of agent that harms the body (like VIRUS, if the context allows for a broader interpretation of "poisonous agent").
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The most critical piece of information after the clue itself. Eliminate answers that don't fit the required number of letters immediately.
- Consider Synonyms & Antonyms: For "poison," think about its direct synonyms (TOXIN, VENOM) but also its effects (BANE, DEADLY) or things associated with it. Sometimes, understanding what 'poison' ISN'T can help lead you to the correct answer.
- Look for Figurative Meanings: Crossword setters love wordplay. "Poison" might not always be literal. Does the clue imply something that harms a relationship, a plan, or an idea?
- Check Surrounding Letters: If you have a few letters already filled in from intersecting words, use them to narrow down possibilities. This is often the quickest way to confirm an answer or eliminate others.
- Context is King: Is it a science-themed puzzle? A literary one? The context of the entire crossword can often guide you towards the specific interpretation of "poison" the setter had in mind.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do if a 'poison' clue has a specific letter count?
If a 'poison' clue has a specific letter count, you should first check common synonyms for 'poison' that fit that length. For example, 'TOXIN' (5 letters), 'VENOM' (5 letters), or 'BANE' (4 letters) are common answers. Also consider words related to the act of poisoning or things that are poisonous, like 'ACID' or 'VIRUS' if the context fits.
How can the word 'poison' relate to non-literal crossword clues?
Beyond its literal meaning, 'poison' can refer to anything that corrupts, destroys, or sours a situation. For instance, a 'poisonous remark' or 'poisonous atmosphere' suggests something harmful to relationships or morale. Answers might include 'BANE', 'CURSE', or even more abstract terms depending on the clue's nuance.
Are there common tricks or wordplay associated with 'poison' clues?
Yes, 'poison' clues might use wordplay. For example, a clue could hint at a specific type of poison (e.g., 'Snake's poison' for VENOM) or an effect (e.g., 'Cause of internal rot' for BANE or TOXIN). Sometimes, it might be a homophone (e.g., 'Poe's son' for POISON if the puzzle allows for such wordplay, though less common).