tar crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Struggling with the clue "tar" in your crossword puzzle? You've come to the right place! We provide a comprehensive list of solutions, complete with explanations, to help you complete your puzzle quickly and efficiently.
Solutions for "tar crossword clue" by Letter Count
5 Letters
PITCH: A black, viscous substance obtained from the distillation of coal tar or petroleum. This is a very common answer for 'tar' when referring to the substance.
6 Letters
SEAMAN: An informal or old-fashioned term for a sailor, often associated with the phrase "old tar" or "Jack Tar." This answer is common when 'tar' implies a person.
SAILOR: A person whose job it is to work as a member of the crew of a commercial or naval ship. Synonymous with seaman in the context of "Jack Tar."
7 Letters
ASPHALT: A sticky, black, and highly viscous liquid or semi-solid form of petroleum, commonly used in road construction. Often used interchangeably with 'tar' in crosswords.
More About "tar crossword clue"
The clue "tar" is a classic in the world of crosswords because it has two distinct, frequently used meanings. The most literal meaning refers to the dark, thick, sticky substance used for waterproofing or road surfaces, for which 'pitch' or 'asphalt' are prime candidates. This sense of the word is often found in clues relating to construction, sticky materials, or dark colors.
However, "tar" is also widely known as an informal term for a sailor. This usage comes from historical contexts where sailors were associated with tar, either because they used it to waterproof rigging and ropes, or from the term 'Jack Tar' for a British naval seaman. When the clue 'tar' appears in a puzzle, solvers should immediately consider both the substance and the seafaring person, using the letter count and surrounding clues to determine the correct fit.
Understanding these dual meanings is crucial for quickly solving clues involving "tar." Whether your puzzle is asking about a road material or a crew member, knowing both possibilities will give you a significant advantage.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check Letter Count First: Always match the number of letters in the answer grid to the potential solutions. For "tar," this helps narrow down between 5-letter (PITCH), 6-letter (SAILOR/SEAMAN), and 7-letter (ASPHALT) options.
- Analyze Surrounding Clues: Look at intersecting words. If an intersecting word is "SHIP" or "NAVY," it points strongly towards "SAILOR" or "SEAMAN." If it's "ROAD" or "BLACK," "PITCH" or "ASPHALT" are more likely.
- Consider Common Crossword Synonyms: Crosswords often recycle common synonyms. For "tar," remember both its literal meaning and its slang meaning for a sailor.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'tar' commonly refer to in crossword puzzles?
In crosswords, 'tar' most commonly refers to the dark, sticky substance (like pitch or asphalt). However, it very frequently also refers to a 'sailor' or 'seaman', stemming from the slang term 'Jack Tar' for a naval seafarer.
Are there multiple answers for 'tar' crossword clues?
Yes, 'tar' is a versatile clue! Depending on the number of letters and surrounding words, it could be PITCH (5 letters), SEAMAN (6 letters), SAILOR (6 letters), or even ASPHALT (7 letters). Context is key to determining the correct answer.
How can I figure out if 'tar' refers to a substance or a person?
Look at the clue's surrounding words or the overall theme of the puzzle. If the clue mentions 'old' or 'ship', it likely refers to a sailor. If it mentions 'road' or 'sticky', it's probably the substance. The number of letters in the answer slot is also a strong indicator.