Like wind through the pines (8) - Crossword Clue
Answer: WHISPERY
Understanding the Clue
- The clue uses a simile to describe a specific quality of sound. When wind passes through pine trees, it doesn't roar or howl—instead, it creates a soft, sibilant sound that resembles hushed speech or whispers.
- The word WHISPERY (8 letters: W-H-I-S-P-E-R-Y) describes anything that has the qualities of a whisper: soft, breathy, and barely audible.
Why This Answer Works
- Soft and gentle rather than loud or harsh
- Continuous and flowing like murmured conversation
- Soothing and peaceful, often described in literature and poetry
- Breathy in quality, similar to human whispers
Tips for Solving Similar Clues
- Look for sensory descriptions: Clues that reference sounds, textures, or sensations often lead to adjectives ending in "-y" (gusty, breezy, misty).
- Consider the letter count: The (8) tells you exactly how many letters you need, which immediately rules out shorter synonyms like "hushed" or "soft."
- Think poetically: Nature-based clues often use literary or poetic language. Words like "whispery," "sighing," or "murmuring" fit this style.
- Break down the imagery: "Wind through pines" → what sound does that make? → whisper-like → whispery.
Like wind through the pines (8) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Could the answer be "rustling" instead?
A: While rustling describes wind in trees, "whispery" more accurately captures the specific quality of sound through pine needles—that breathy, speech-like quality the clue suggests.
Q: Are there other 8-letter words that could fit?
A: "Swishing" or "sighing" might seem to fit, but "whispery" is the most precise match for both the letter count and the soft, voice-like quality implied by the clue.
Q: Why do pines make this particular sound?
A: Pine needles are long, thin, and flexible, creating a softer rustling than broad-leafed trees. They produce a continuous, gentle sound rather than distinct rustles.
Q: Is "whispery" commonly used in crosswords?
A: Yes, descriptive adjectives ending in "-y" are crossword favorites because they fit specific letter patterns and have evocative, clear definitions.
Q: What if I only have some letters filled in?
A: Common patterns: W_____RY or ISP_ can help you identify WHISPERY even with partial letters from crossing words.
