Hollow portion of a ship (4) - Crossword Clue
Answer: HULL
Understanding the Hollow Portion of a Ship
- The hollow portion of a ship refers to the HULL, the watertight body of a vessel that sits partially submerged in water.
- This four-letter answer is one of the most common nautical terms appearing in crossword puzzles, making it essential knowledge for puzzle enthusiasts.
Why HULL is the Perfect Crossword Answer
- Crossword constructors favor HULL for several compelling reasons. First, its four-letter length fits perfectly into common puzzle grids.
- Second, the word contains versatile letters (H-U-L-L) that intersect well with other entries. Third, it's universally recognized terminology that appeals to solvers of all skill levels.
- The clue "hollow portion of a ship" elegantly describes the hull's essential characteristic—it's literally the hollowed-out structure that gives ships their carrying capacity and seaworthiness.
Crossword Strategy Tips
- When you see clues referencing ships, boats, or nautical themes, immediately consider these common four-letter answers: HULL, MAST, DECK, KEEL, SAIL, and PORT.
- The word "hollow" or "portion" in a clue often signals structural components rather than equipment or personnel.
Hollow portion of a ship (4) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Is HULL always four letters in crossword puzzles?
A: Yes, HULL is invariably spelled with four letters. There are no accepted alternate spellings or abbreviations in standard crossword puzzles.
Q: What's the difference between a hull and a keel?
A: The hull is the entire outer body of the ship, while the keel is the central structural beam running along the bottom of the hull from bow to stern.
Q: Can HULL refer to other meanings in crosswords?
A: Occasionally, HULL might refer to the outer covering of seeds or grains, or the English city of Hull, though the nautical definition is by far most common.
Q: Are there any trick variations of this clue?
A: Some puzzles might use "___-shaped" or "below the waterline" to describe the hull, but these still lead to the same four-letter answer.
Q: What if the clue says "hollow portion" without mentioning ships?
A: Context from crossing answers matters, but if it's four letters and relates to vessels or maritime themes, HULL remains your best guess.
