quahog crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling a puzzle and came across 'quahog crossword clue', you're in the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, carefully organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to guide you to the correct solution.
Solutions for "quahog crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
CLAM: A common bivalve mollusk, often harvested for food, closely associated with the term "quahog".
5 Letters
VENUS: Refers to the genus Venus, which includes the hard-shell clam or quahog (Mercenaria mercenaria).
7 Letters
MOLLUSK: A broad category of invertebrates that includes clams, oysters, and snails; quahogs are a type of mollusk.
More About "quahog crossword clue"
The term "quahog" (pronounced "KO-hog") refers specifically to a type of edible hard-shell clam, primarily found along the eastern coast of North America. Its scientific name is Mercenaria mercenaria. These bivalve mollusks are highly prized in cuisine, famously used in clam chowder, clam bakes, and stuffed quahogs, making them a recognizable and popular topic.
In crosswords, "quahog" is a favorite clue due to its relatively short length and distinct sound, which can lead to various related answers. While "CLAM" is often the most direct and common solution, constructors might also delve into broader biological categories like "MOLLUSK" or specific genus names like "VENUS" to challenge solvers.
Understanding the dual nature of quahogs—both as a specific animal and a culinary ingredient—can help you anticipate the kind of answer a clue might be looking for, whether it's a general term, a scientific classification, or even a regional dish.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Think Broadly and Specifically: For clues like "quahog," consider both the most common, direct answer (e.g., CLAM) and broader classifications (e.g., MOLLUSK) or even scientific terms if the puzzle seems to lean that way.
- Check Letter Count: Always verify the number of letters. This is your most crucial hint! It immediately narrows down the possibilities significantly.
- Utilize Intersecting Words: Don't try to solve a word in isolation. The letters from intersecting words are invaluable for confirming your guesses or eliminating incorrect answers.
- Consider Culinary Context: Many animal clues, especially seafood, can have answers related to dishes or culinary uses. Think about how the item is prepared or served.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a quahog?
A quahog (pronounced "KO-hog") is a type of edible hard-shell clam, native to the eastern North American coast. Its scientific name is Mercenaria mercenaria.
Are "quahog" and "clam" the same thing?
Yes, "quahog" is a specific common name for certain species of hard-shell clams, particularly the Northern quahog. So, all quahogs are clams, but not all clams are quahogs.
Why do quahogs often appear in crosswords?
Quahogs are common in crosswords because the word itself is somewhat unique and its answers (like CLAM, MOLLUSK) are familiar. They also offer opportunities for clues related to seafood or coastal regions.