spoil crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome! If you're looking for answers to the "spoil" crossword clue, you've come to the right place. Below you'll find a comprehensive list of potential solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "spoil crossword clue" by Letter Count
3 Letters
ROT: To cause to decompose or decay. (e.g., "Food starts to rot if not refrigerated.")
MAR: To damage or impair the quality or appearance of. (e.g., "A scratch can mar the finish of a car.")
4 Letters
RUIN: To reduce to a state of decay, collapse, or disintegration. (e.g., "The bad weather can ruin the picnic.")
5 Letters
WRECK: To cause the destruction or collapse of (something). (e.g., "The storm could wreck the old fence.")
6 Letters
PAMPER: To indulge with every attention, comfort, and kindness; spoil. (e.g., "Parents often pamper their youngest child.")
7 Letters
CORRUPT: To cause to become morally depraved; to spoil or destroy the honesty or integrity of. (e.g., "Power can corrupt even good leaders.")
More About "spoil crossword clue"
"Spoil" is a versatile word in English, and its multiple meanings are frequently exploited in crossword puzzles. Primarily, it can mean to damage, ruin, or cause something to decay, such as when food spoils or a bad mood spoils an evening. In this context, answers like ROT, MAR, RUIN, and WRECK are common.
However, "spoil" also has a distinct meaning related to excessive indulgence, often applied to children or pets who are given too much and become demanding or ill-behaved. When the clue leans towards this sense, words like PAMPER or CODDLE are likely candidates. Understanding the subtle nuances of the clue's phrasing is key to selecting the correct answer.
Crossword setters love to use words with double meanings to challenge solvers. Always consider both the destructive and the indulgent interpretations of 'spoil' when you encounter this clue, and use the number of letters and any intersecting words as crucial hints.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Pay close attention to other words in the clue or surrounding clues. Is the puzzle about nature, emotions, or human behavior? This can guide you to the correct meaning of 'spoil'.
- Synonym Search: Think broadly about synonyms for 'spoil' in both its senses (to damage, to indulge). Words that aren't direct synonyms but convey a similar effect are often valid answers.
- Check Letter Count: Always use the number of available boxes to narrow down your options. A three-letter answer will never be 'corrupt', and vice-versa.
- Consider Parts of Speech: Is the clue asking for a verb (to spoil), a noun (a spoil), or an adjective (spoiled)? This can help eliminate incorrect word types.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are common synonyms for 'spoil' in crosswords?
Common synonyms for 'spoil' in crosswords often relate to damaging, decaying, or ruining something. Look for words like ROT, MAR, RUIN, HARM, WRECK, or TAINT. Depending on the context, it can also refer to indulging, as in PAMPER.
How can the number of letters help solve 'spoil' clues?
The number of letters is crucial. If the clue asks for a 3-letter word, you might consider ROT or MAR. For 4 letters, RUIN or HARM. Longer answers like CORRUPT (7 letters) or DETERIORATE (13 letters) would only fit if the grid allows. Always match the word length to the available spaces.
Does 'spoil' ever mean 'indulge' in crosswords?
Yes, 'spoil' can definitely mean 'indulge' or 'overindulge' in crosswords, especially when referring to a child or a pet. In such cases, the answer might be PAMPER (6 letters) or CODDLE. The surrounding clues or the puzzle's theme can often provide context to differentiate between the 'damage' and 'indulge' meanings.