sully crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "sully crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide a comprehensive list of potential answers, categorized by their letter count, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "sully crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
MAR: To damage or spoil the quality, appearance, or effectiveness of something; to tarnish a reputation.
4 Letters
SOIL: To make something dirty or stained, often used metaphorically for a reputation.
5 Letters
TAINT: To contaminate or corrupt, often implying a loss of purity or innocence, especially concerning reputation.
STAIN: To mark with a spot of dirt or discolouration; also, to disgrace or bring shame upon.
6 Letters
DEFILE: To make something impure or dirty; to desecrate or spoil a reputation.
8 Letters
BESMIRCH: To damage the reputation of someone or something in the eyes of others; to make dirty or discolored.
More About "sully crossword clue"
The word "sully" is a classic crossword clue because it has several strong synonyms that vary in length and nuance, making it versatile for puzzle constructors. At its core, "sully" means to damage the purity or integrity of something, often a reputation, but it can also refer to literally making something dirty.
When you encounter 'sully' in a crossword, think about its implications: dishonor, defilement, or simple dirtiness. The context of the surrounding clues and the number of letters will guide you to the precise answer. It's a word that bridges the literal and figurative, making it a favorite for setters who enjoy playing with shades of meaning.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count First: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This immediately narrows down your options dramatically, especially for common clues like "sully."
- Brainstorm Synonyms and Antonyms: For words like "sully," think of direct synonyms (mar, soil, stain) but also consider words with opposite meanings if the clue implies negation or reversal.
- Look at Intersecting Letters: The letters you've already filled in from crossing words are your best friends. They can confirm or eliminate potential answers instantly.
- Think About Word Parts: Sometimes, clues relate to prefixes, suffixes, or specific parts of a word. While less common for "sully," it's a good general strategy for more complex clues.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'sully' typically mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'sully' typically refers to the act of dirtying, tarnishing, or damaging someone's reputation or a pure object. It often leads to synonyms like MAR, STAIN, SOIL, TAINT, DEFILE, or BESMIRCH.
How can letter count help me solve 'sully' related clues?
The letter count is crucial. If you have 3 letters, 'MAR' is a strong candidate. For 5 letters, 'TAINT' or 'STAIN' are common. Longer answers like 'DEFILE' (6 letters) or 'BESMIRCH' (9 letters) are used for more specific or longer clues. Always use the known letter count to narrow down possibilities.
Are there common alternative meanings for 'sully' in crosswords?
While 'sully' most commonly means to tarnish or dirty (literally or figuratively), a tricky crossword might use it in a more obscure sense. However, its primary meaning of staining or damaging reputation/purity is by far the most frequent in puzzles. Always consider synonyms first.