Movies (6) - Crossword Clue
Answer: FLICKS
FLICKS is the perfect 6-letter answer for crossword clues asking about movies. This casual, colloquial term has been a popular slang word for motion pictures since the early 20th century, making it a frequent appearance in crossword puzzles of all difficulty levels.
Why "Flicks" Appears in Crossword Puzzles
- Crossword constructors love flicks for several compelling reasons. First, it's exactly 6 letters, which fits perfectly into common grid patterns.
- Second, it contains frequently used letters (F, L, I, C, K, S) that intersect well with other words.
- Third, the term is widely recognized across generations, making it accessible to solvers of varying ages and backgrounds.
- The word's informal, conversational tone also adds variety to puzzles that might otherwise rely solely on formal terminology.
Tips for Solving Movie-Related Crossword Clues
- Look for informal language: When clues include words like "casually," "informally," or "slang," flicks is often the answer rather than formal terms like "films" or "cinema."
- Count your letters first: At 6 letters, flicks fills a specific space. If your grid shows 5 letters, consider "films" instead.
- Check crossing words: The K in flicks is particularly distinctive. If you've solved intersecting clues with a K, you're likely on the right track.
- Consider the puzzle's tone: Themed puzzles about entertainment, Hollywood, or leisure activities frequently feature flicks as an answer.
- Watch for era clues: References to "old-time" or "vintage" entertainment often point to flicks because of its historical connection to early cinema.
Movies (6) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Is "flicks" only used for old movies?
A: No, flicks refers to movies of any era. While it has vintage origins, people still use it casually today to describe contemporary films, streaming content, or any motion pictures.
Q: Why is it called "flicks" instead of just "films"?
A: The term comes from the flickering visual effect of early film projectors. Silent movies would visibly flicker on screen, leading audiences to call them "flicks." The nickname stuck even after technology improved.
Q: Can "flicks" be 5 letters in crosswords?
A: No, flicks is always spelled with 6 letters. For 5-letter movie clues, consider "films" instead.
Q: Is "flicks" too informal for formal crosswords?
A: Not at all. Major publications like The New York Times, Washington Post, and Wall Street Journal regularly use flicks in their crosswords. Its widespread recognition makes it perfectly acceptable.
Q: What's the difference between "flicks" and "pix"?
A: Both are informal terms—flicks specifically means movies, while "pix" is short for pictures and can refer to photographs or movies depending on context.
