small plateau crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're stuck on the clue "small plateau", you've come to the right place. We provide the most accurate and comprehensive solutions to help you complete your puzzle.
Solutions for "small plateau crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
MESA: A flat-topped hill or small plateau with steep sides, common in arid regions. Often used in crosswords to refer to a tableland.
5 Letters
BUTTE: An isolated hill with steep, often vertical sides and a small, relatively flat top; smaller than a mesa.
KNOLL: A small rounded hill or mound. While typically rounded, it can sometimes describe a slightly raised, somewhat flat area in a broader sense.
More About "small plateau crossword clue"
The term "small plateau" often points to specific geographical features that are frequently encountered in crosswords due to their distinct characteristics and concise names. The most common answers, such as MESA and BUTTE, originate from regions where these landforms are prevalent, particularly the American Southwest. A mesa, derived from the Spanish word for 'table,' accurately describes a flat-topped elevation with steep slopes, while a butte is a smaller, more isolated version, often a remnant of a larger mesa that has undergone further erosion.
Understanding these terms not only helps with crossword puzzles but also expands one's general geographical knowledge. Crossword constructors love these words because they are precise, relatively short, and have clear definitions, making them ideal candidates for clues that test vocabulary and general knowledge. When you see "small plateau" or similar clues, think about these distinctive natural formations.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Consider Letter Count: Always check the number of letters required for the answer. This is your primary filter and often narrows down possibilities significantly. For "small plateau," 'MESA' (4 letters) and 'BUTTE' (5 letters) are key contenders.
- Think of Synonyms & Related Terms: Brainstorm words related to the clue's meaning. For 'plateau', think 'tableland', 'flat-top', 'elevation'. Sometimes, a clue is looking for a synonym rather than a direct definition.
- Context is Key: Pay attention to any additional words in the clue. Is it "small plateau in Arizona"? Or "eroded plateau"? These modifiers can point to more specific answers or confirm a general one.
- Check Cross-References: If you have intersecting words, use the letters you've already filled in from other clues. This is often the fastest way to confirm or deduce an answer you're unsure of.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a mesa and a butte?
Both mesas and buttes are isolated hills with flat tops and steep sides, typically found in arid environments. The primary distinction is size: a mesa is generally larger than a butte. A butte is essentially a smaller, more isolated remnant of a mesa that has undergone further erosion.
Why is 'mesa' a common crossword answer for 'small plateau'?
'Mesa' is a common crossword answer because it's a concise, widely recognized geographical term (often Spanish in origin, meaning 'table') that perfectly describes a flat-topped landform, making it an ideal fit for clues related to plateaus or tablelands.
How can I find answers to other geographical crossword clues?
For other geographical crossword clues, consider terms for various landforms (hills, valleys, mountains, rivers), bodies of water (lakes, oceans, seas), and specific regional terms. Contextual clues (like 'South American river' or 'desert feature') can also narrow down possibilities. Utilizing a comprehensive crossword database like Answercrossword.com is also highly effective.