rank crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're stuck on the "rank crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, along with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle. Whether you're looking for a specific length or just exploring possibilities, we've got you covered.
Solutions for "rank crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
TIER: A level or stratum in a hierarchy, often indicating position.
FOUL: Unpleasant, especially to the senses; having a disagreeable smell, aligning with the "smelly" meaning of rank.
5 Letters
LEVEL: A position on a scale of amount, quantity, or quality, such as a social or military rank.
GRADE: A particular degree of quality, intensity, or extent; also a position or class in a scale.
ORDER: An arrangement or sequence; also, a class or group in society, indicating a social rank.
STINK: To emit a strong, unpleasant smell, a direct synonym for the "smelly" interpretation of rank.
UTTER: Complete or absolute, as in "utter nonsense" or "utter rank," meaning extreme or total.
6 Letters
PUTRID: Decomposed and smelling very bad; rotten, directly describing something that is rank due to decay.
More About "rank crossword clue"
"Rank" is a versatile word in the English language, making it a favorite for crossword constructors due to its multiple distinct meanings. When you encounter "rank" as a clue, it's crucial to consider two primary interpretations: its noun/verb meaning related to position, status, or ordering, and its adjective meaning referring to a strong, unpleasant smell or being extreme/absolute. The surrounding clues, the number of letters, and the overall theme of the puzzle will help you pinpoint the correct answer.
For instance, if the clue hints at hierarchy or a place in a sequence, answers like LEVEL, GRADE, or TIER are strong candidates. If the clue suggests an offensive odor, then words like FOUL, STINK, or PUTRID would fit. Sometimes, "rank" can also imply something complete or total, as in "rank amateur," where UTTER or GROSS might be the solution.
Understanding these different facets of "rank" not only helps with this specific clue but also improves your overall crossword-solving agility by training your mind to think broadly about word meanings. Always keep an open mind to different contexts when tackling such polysemous words.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Multiple Meanings: As with "rank," many words in crosswords have multiple meanings. Always think beyond the first definition that comes to mind.
- Check Letter Count: The number of letters is your most powerful constraint. Use it to eliminate possibilities quickly.
- Look for Cross-References: Filling in crossing words can provide crucial letters that narrow down your options for ambiguous clues like "rank."
- Identify Word Type: Is "rank" being used as a noun (a position), a verb (to place in order), or an adjective (smelly, absolute)? This often guides you to the correct type of answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does "rank" mean in a crossword puzzle?
In crosswords, "rank" can refer to a position, level, or grade (like TIER or LEVEL), or it can mean having a strong, unpleasant smell (like FOUL or PUTRID). The specific clue and surrounding letters will help determine the correct interpretation.
How do I find the correct "rank" answer when there are multiple meanings?
Pay close attention to the number of letters required, and check crossing letters. If the clue has an adjective like "foul rank," it points to the smell meaning. If it's "social rank," it points to status. Context is key!
Are there common synonyms for "rank" that appear in crosswords?
Yes, depending on the meaning. For status/position, common synonyms include LEVEL, GRADE, TIER, POST, STATUS. For the smell meaning, FOUL, RANCID, ODOROUS, and STINK are frequently used.