Contemptible person (9) - Crossword Clue
Answer: PIPSQUEAK
Understanding the Crossword Clue: Contemptible Person
- Contemptible person is a common crossword puzzle clue that points to someone worthy of scorn or disdain.
- The answer PIPSQUEAK (9 letters) perfectly captures this meaning, referring to an insignificant or contemptible individual who deserves little respect.
Why PIPSQUEAK is the Perfect Answer
- A pipsqueak is traditionally defined as a person regarded as insignificant, especially because they are small or young.
- The term carries a dismissive, contemptible tone that makes it ideal for this crossword clue.
- Originally emerging in American slang during the early 1900s, the word combines "pip" (something small) with "squeak" (a tiny, weak sound), creating an image of someone barely worth noticing.
Tips for Solving "Contemptible Person" Clues
- Look at the letter count first - Nine letters immediately suggests PIPSQUEAK over shorter alternatives like "creep" or "louse"
- Check crossing letters - The double "P" at positions 1 and 4, plus the uncommon "Q" at position 5, provide strong confirmation
- Consider tone and context - PIPSQUEAK implies both contempt AND insignificance, not just evil or nastiness
- Think colloquially - Crosswords favor colorful slang terms over formal language for personality descriptions
- Mind the vowels - PIPSQUEAK has four vowels (I, I, U, E, A) which can help when only a few letters are filled
Contemptible person (9) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Is PIPSQUEAK always the answer for "contemptible person (9)"?
A: While PIPSQUEAK is the most common nine-letter answer, other possibilities include SCOUNDREL or MISCREANT depending on the puzzle's theme and crossing words.
Q: What's the origin of the word pipsqueak?
A: PIPSQUEAK emerged in early 20th-century American slang, combining "pip" (small seed or minor thing) with "squeak" to describe someone insignificant and annoying.
Q: Can pipsqueak be used affectionately?
A: Sometimes it's used playfully toward children or younger siblings, though it retains a mildly dismissive undertone even in affectionate contexts.
Q: Are there British vs. American differences in usage?
A: The term appears in both British and American crosswords equally, though British puzzles might also use "BLIGHTER" or "BOUNDER" for similar contemptible person clues.
Q: How can I remember PIPSQUEAK for future puzzles?
A: Associate it with the mental image: PIP (tiny) + SQUEAK (weak sound) = someone too small and weak to take seriously, thus contemptible.
