Country (2,8) Crossword Clue
Answer: EL SALVADOR (10 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Country (2,8)" with 10 letters is "EL SALVADOR".El Salvador is a country in Central America, bordered by Honduras to the east, Guatemala to the west, and the Pacific Ocean to the south. Known for its beautiful beaches, volcanoes, and Mayan heritage, it is the smallest country in Central America but plays a significant role in the region's culture and economy.
Why "El Salvador" Fits
The clue asks for a phrase (2,8) meaning "country." The answer, EL SALVADOR, fits perfectly:
- Country: El Salvador is the official name of a country in Central America — exactly matching the clue’s definition.
- Direct match: With two letters in the first word and eight in the second, the enumeration (2,8) aligns exactly with El Salvador.
- Precise meaning: The phrase provides the full, formal name of the nation, distinguishing it from other single-word countries.
El Salvador is a nation rich in history, culture, and geographic significance in Central America:
Origin and usage:
- The name El Salvador is Spanish for “The Savior,” referencing Jesus Christ.
- The country was named by Spanish conquistadors in the early 16th century as Provincia De Nuestro Señor Jesucristo, El Salvador Del Mundo ("Province of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Savior of the World"); this was later shortened to El Salvador.
Geography and facts:
- Bordered by Honduras, Guatemala, and the Pacific Ocean.
- The smallest and most densely populated country in Central America.
- The capital city is San Salvador.
Cultural note:
- Known for its volcanoes, Pacific coastline, and Mayan heritage sites.
- Spanish is the official language.
- The country is famous for pupusas (stuffed tortillas) and vibrant artisan markets.
Examples:
- “El Salvador is renowned for its volcanic landscape and coffee plantations.”
- “Surfing in El Salvador attracts tourists from around the world.”
- "San Salvador, the capital of El Salvador, is a bustling urban center."
In quick crosswords like “Country (2,8),” clues for nations with multi-word names often rely on their full official spelling:
Definition: The clue is direct, simply asking for a two-word country.
Clue type: Geographical and factual.
Solving approach:
- Consider country names that fit the enumeration (2,8): El Salvador stands out, as other “El” countries (e.g., El Segundo) are not countries.
- The clear word break makes it distinct from one-word countries (e.g., Ecuador, Honduras).
Crossword pattern: Full, formal names of countries—especially those with Spanish or Portuguese articles like El or La—are common, especially in medium-difficulty puzzles.
