threadbare crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the "threadbare crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide accurate answers across various word lengths, along with helpful explanations to boost your crossword-solving skills.
Solutions for "threadbare crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WORN: Describes something that has become thin and damaged from long use, often referring to fabric.
6 Letters
SHABBY: Looking old and in poor condition, often due to wear and tear, fitting the 'threadbare' description.
FRAYED: Refers to fabric or edges that have unraveled or become worn at the ends, a common state for 'threadbare' items.
7 Letters
WORN OUT: A common phrase (though two words, often entered as one in crosswords or conceptually) for something completely exhausted from use, very much like 'threadbare'.
8 Letters
TATTERED: Describes something torn and ragged from extensive wear, indicating a very 'threadbare' condition.
More About "threadbare crossword clue"
"Threadbare" is a classic crossword clue that often points to answers describing a state of wear and tear, typically for textiles. The term literally refers to fabric that has been worn so much that the threads become visible, often implying a state of extreme age or overuse. This makes it a versatile clue for a variety of synonyms related to dilapidation, age, or being worn thin.
When you encounter "threadbare" in a crossword, think about items that would exhibit such wear: clothing, carpets, upholstery, or even abstract concepts like patience or an argument that has been used too often. Crossword setters love this clue because it has several strong, common synonyms that vary in length, allowing them to fit the word into different puzzle structures. Your primary task is to identify the correct synonym based on the number of letters required and any intersecting words.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count the Letters: Always start by counting the squares in the grid for the "threadbare" clue. This immediately narrows down the possible answers to those of a specific length (e.g., 4 letters for WORN, 6 for SHABBY, 8 for TATTERED).
- Check Intersections: Use letters from intersecting clues that you've already solved. These confirmed letters will provide valuable hints for filling in the "threadbare" answer, often revealing the correct synonym.
- Consider Nuance: While many answers mean "worn," some carry slightly different nuances. "Shabby" implies a general poor appearance, while "frayed" is specific to edges. Thinking about these subtle differences can help you pick the perfect word.
- Think Beyond Single Words: Sometimes, a "threadbare" clue might lead to a two-word answer (like "WORN OUT") that is entered as a single phrase in the grid, or the clue itself might be part of a larger theme.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'threadbare' mean in a crossword?
In crosswords, 'threadbare' typically refers to something that has become thin and worn, showing the threads of the fabric due to long use or age. Common answers often relate to items like clothing, carpets, or furniture that are in poor condition.
Are there common synonyms for 'threadbare' in crosswords?
Yes, frequent synonyms include WORN, SHABBY, FRAYED, TATTERED, or even phrases like WORN OUT. The specific length of the answer required by the puzzle will usually narrow down the options.
How can I figure out the length of a 'threadbare' answer?
The length of the answer is indicated by the number of empty squares provided in the crossword grid for that particular clue. Count the squares to determine how many letters your answer should have, then match it to the available solutions.