worn down crossword clue – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're looking for solutions to the "worn down crossword clue," you've come to the right place. We provide quick, accurate answers and helpful explanations to get you unstuck and back to enjoying your puzzle.
Solutions for "worn down crossword clue" by Letter Count
4 Letters
WORN: Directly meaning something is diminished by use or age.
5 Letters
TIRED: Feeling exhausted or fatigued, often from being 'worn down' mentally or physically.
6 Letters
FRAYED: Typically refers to fabric or rope that has been worn at the edges, losing its original structure.
ERODED: Implies a gradual wearing away, often by natural elements like wind or water, but can be used more broadly.
8 Letters
ABRASIVE: While often a material, it can describe something that causes friction or wears down another, metaphorically or literally.
More About "worn down crossword clue"
"Worn down" is a versatile phrase that can appear in crosswords with several meanings, making it a great challenge. It can refer to physical deterioration, as in a piece of furniture that's seen better days, or an object that has been smoothed out or thinned from repeated use. This is where answers like FRAYED or WORN come into play, describing material fatigue or the visible effects of time and handling.
Beyond the literal, "worn down" often points to a state of mental or physical exhaustion. If a person is 'worn down,' they might be TIRED or JADED, feeling the effects of stress, hard work, or persistent challenges. Crossword setters love to play on these double meanings, so always consider both the physical and emotional interpretations when tackling such a clue. Context within the puzzle (e.g., surrounding letters or other clues) is key to pinpointing the exact meaning.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Analyze the Word Length: The number of letters is your most crucial hint. For "worn down," a 4-letter answer points to WORN, while 5 letters might suggest TIRED. Always count the blanks!
- Consider Synonyms and Antonyms: Think broadly about words that mean 'worn down,' but also consider their opposites if the clue has a tricky negation. Sometimes a clue asks for the opposite of 'new' or 'fresh.'
- Look for Figurative Meanings: Many crossword clues use phrases like "worn down" metaphorically. It could mean exhausted, defeated, or even reduced in status. Keep an open mind for less literal interpretations.
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Clues: Don't try to solve "worn down" in isolation. Once you have a few letters from intersecting words, plug them in. These confirmed letters can significantly narrow down your options for the "worn down" answer.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does 'worn down' mean in a crossword context?
In crosswords, 'worn down' can refer to physical deterioration (like 'frayed' or 'eroded'), a state of fatigue or exhaustion ('tired'), or even a process of reduction or defeat.
How do I determine the correct length for 'worn down' answers?
The length is crucial! Check the number of boxes provided in the crossword grid for the 'worn down' clue. This tells you exactly how many letters your answer should have. For instance, if there are 5 boxes, you need a 5-letter word like 'TIRED'.
Are there common synonyms for 'worn down' used in crosswords?
Yes, common synonyms include 'frayed,' 'eroded,' 'tired,' 'fatigued,' 'jaded,' 'decrepit,' 'tattered,' and simply 'worn.' The specific synonym depends on the context of the clue and the surrounding letters.