"crabby" (11) - Crossword Clue
Answer: LATERIGRADE
Understanding the Crossword Clue: Crabby
- The crossword answer LATERIGRADE (11 letters) perfectly captures the meaning of "crabby" through its fascinating connection to sideways movement.
- This term describes organisms that walk sideways, most notably crabs, making it an ideal solution for this clue.
Related Crossword Terms
- Understanding related movement terminology can help with similar clues.
- Plantigrade describes animals that walk on the soles of their feet (like humans and bears), while digitigrade refers to toe-walkers (like dogs and cats).
- These scientific movement classifications often appear in challenging crossword puzzles, particularly those with science or nature themes.
Quick Tips for Solving Movement-Based Clues
- Look for Latin roots - Many zoological terms combine Latin words for body parts and actions
- Consider literal meanings - Words like "crabby" might refer to actual crabs, not just moods
- Count your letters first - An 11-letter requirement immediately rules out simpler answers like "sideways"
- Think scientifically - Educational crosswords often favor technical terminology over common phrases
- Check the theme - Nature or biology-themed puzzles frequently include specialized vocabulary
"crabby" (11) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Are all crustaceans laterigrade?
No, only certain crustaceans move sideways. While crabs are the most famous laterigrade animals, not all crustaceans share this movement pattern. Lobsters and crayfish, for example, typically move forward and backward.
Q: Can laterigrade animals move forward?
Yes, most laterigrade creatures can move in multiple directions, but sideways movement is their primary and most efficient mode of locomotion. Crabs can walk forward when necessary, though it's slower and more awkward for them.
Q: Why do crosswords use such obscure words?
Challenging vocabulary like "laterigrade" serves multiple purposes: it educates solvers, increases difficulty appropriately, and provides unique letter combinations that help constructors build better puzzle grids.
Q: What other animals are laterigrade besides crabs?
Some spiders and certain insects exhibit laterigrade movement. The term is most commonly associated with crabs, but any creature that primarily moves sideways can be classified as laterigrade.Retry
