swallows crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "swallows crossword clue"? You've come to the right place! We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, organized by letter count, along with helpful explanations to get you back on track and finish your puzzle.
Solutions for "swallows crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
EATS: A common, straightforward synonym for the act of swallowing food or drink. This is often the first word to consider for short answers.
5 Letters
GULPS: Implies swallowing something quickly or in large mouthfuls, often with an audible sound. A good fit when the nuance of speed is present.
7 Letters
ABSORBS: Can refer to 'swallowing' in a metaphorical sense, like taking in information, liquid, or even a shock. Useful for more abstract or lateral clues.
INGESTS: A more formal or technical term for taking food, drink, or another substance into the body. Often used in scientific or formal contexts within clues.
8 Letters
CONSUMES: To eat, drink, or ingest (food or drink). It can also broadly mean to use up a resource or take in something completely, making it versatile for various clue types.
More About "swallows crossword clue"
"Swallows" as a crossword clue is rich in potential meanings, making it both common and sometimes tricky. Primarily, it refers to the act of ingesting food or drink, prompting answers like EATS, GULPS, or CONSUMES. These answers are usually straightforward synonyms of the verb "to swallow." The challenge often lies in matching the exact nuance or formality hinted at by the rest of the clue, or by the available letter count.
Beyond literal ingestion, "swallows" can appear in a metaphorical sense. This might refer to "swallowing pride," meaning to endure humiliation or accept something unpleasant, or "swallowing information," implying comprehension or acceptance (leading to answers like ABSORBS). Furthermore, remember that "swallows" can also be a noun, referring to the swift-flying bird. While less common for a direct "swallows crossword clue," clues like "Barn bird" or "Martins' kin" might lead to this interpretation, especially in themed puzzles.
To successfully tackle this clue, always consider the puzzle's overall theme, the number of letters in the answer, and any surrounding words that might provide context. Puzzles vary in difficulty, and the clue's subtlety can range from a simple synonym to a more cryptic or idiomatic interpretation. Keep an open mind and explore all possibilities.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Context is King: Always read the clue in conjunction with any intersecting words. Sometimes, a single confirmed letter can narrow down "swallows" to the correct EATS, GULPS, or INGESTS.
- Consider Nuance: Does the clue imply speed (GULPS), formality (INGESTS), or a general action (EATS)? Pay attention to adjectives or adverbs in the clue.
- Think Metaphorically (if stuck): If the literal meaning doesn't fit, consider if the clue is asking for a metaphorical "swallow," such as ABSORBS for taking in information or TOLLERATES for accepting something unpleasant.
- Bird Watch: Though less common for "swallows crossword clue" directly, be aware that "swallows" can refer to the bird. If the clue has a nature or animal theme, keep this in mind.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the common meanings for 'swallows' in crossword clues?
The clue 'swallows' most commonly refers to the act of ingesting food or drink, with answers like EATS, GULPS, or CONSUMES. However, it can also refer to the bird species (e.g., MARTINS or SWIFTS if the clue implies the bird) or even metaphorical 'swallowing' of emotions or information (e.g., ABSORBS, TOLERATES).
How can I determine the correct answer for 'swallows' based on letter count?
When solving, first consider the number of letters required. Common answers like EATS (4 letters) or GULPS (5 letters) are good starting points. If the puzzle has a longer slot, think of more formal synonyms like INGESTS (7 letters) or CONSUMES (8 letters). Always check intersecting words for confirmation.
Are there specific types of crosswords that use 'swallows' metaphorically?
Yes, more challenging or cryptic crosswords often use 'swallows' metaphorically. For instance, 'swallows pride' might lead to a different answer than a simple synonym for eating. In such cases, look for answers that imply acceptance, absorption (like ABSORBS), or even suppression.