turncoat crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com, your ultimate resource for solving challenging crossword clues! If you're stuck on 'turncoat crossword clue', you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find a comprehensive list of possible answers, carefully categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "turncoat crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
JUDAS: A biblical figure synonymous with betrayal, often used metaphorically for a turncoat.
REBEL: A person who resists authority or control; can imply a change of allegiance or defection from a previous cause.
7 Letters
TRAITOR: A person who betrays a friend, country, principle, etc., fitting the definition of a turncoat perfectly.
8 Letters
DEFECTOR: A person who has abandoned their country or cause in favor of an opposing one.
RENEGADE: A person who deserts and betrays an organization, country, or set of principles.
APOSTATE: A person who renounces a religious or political belief or principle.
More About "turncoat crossword clue"
The term 'turncoat' evokes a strong sense of betrayal and disloyalty, making it a powerful clue in crosswords. It typically refers to an individual who switches their allegiance from one group, party, or cause to another, often for personal gain or out of conviction. Historically, figures like Benedict Arnold are classic examples, while in modern contexts, it can describe someone who changes political parties or ideological stances. Understanding the nuanced meaning of 'turncoat' is key to identifying its various synonyms.
Crossword setters love 'turncoat' because it has several apt synonyms across different lengths. From shorter, more direct terms like 'JUDAS' (referencing the biblical betrayer) or 'REBEL' to longer, more formal words like 'DEFECTOR' or 'RENEGADE', the possibilities allow for flexibility in puzzle design. When you encounter this clue, think about the core idea of changing loyalty and look for words that capture that essence, whether it's through military, political, or even religious contexts.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider the Context: Always think about the puzzle's theme or the surrounding clues. Sometimes a specific context (e.g., historical, political, religious) can narrow down the synonyms for "turncoat."
- Check Intersecting Letters: Use the letters you've already filled in from intersecting words. This is the most reliable way to confirm which of the possible "turncoat" answers fits the grid.
- Think Broadly for Synonyms: Don't just stick to the most obvious synonyms. Crossword clues often use less common or slightly metaphorical terms. For 'turncoat', consider words related to betrayal, desertion, or changing sides.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'turncoat' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'turncoat' generally refers to someone who switches their loyalty or allegiance from one side to another, often involving betrayal. Common answers include synonyms like TRAITOR, DEFECTOR, or RENEGADE.
How do I choose between multiple answers for a clue like 'turncoat'?
The key is to use the intersecting letters from other clues you've already solved. While multiple words might fit the definition of 'turncoat', only one will correctly complete the intersecting words in the crossword grid. Also, check the required letter count.
Are there different types of 'turncoats' in crosswords?
Crosswords might hint at different aspects of a 'turncoat'. For example, a clue could specify a political turncoat (e.g., 'political defector') or a biblical one ('biblical betrayer' for JUDAS). Always pay attention to any additional descriptors in the clue.