Neatly groomed (9) - Crossword Clue
Answer: MANICURED
The crossword clue "Neatly groomed (9)" leads to the answer MANICURED, a nine-letter word that perfectly captures the concept of careful, precise grooming and maintenance.
Understanding the Clue: Neatly Groomed (9)
- The word "manicured" derives from the Latin "manus" (hand) and "cura" (care), literally meaning "hand care."
- However, in modern usage, it has evolved to describe any form of careful, precise grooming or maintenance that results in a neat, well-maintained appearance.
Crossword Strategy and Related Clues
- Experienced crossword solvers recognize "neatly groomed" as a classic clue pattern that often points to manicured.
- The nine-letter length constraint helps narrow possibilities, while the concept of neat grooming provides the semantic connection.
- Similar clues might include "well-maintained," "carefully tended," or "precisely groomed."
- Alternative crossword answers for similar clues could include "trimmed," "polished," or "groomed," though these typically have different letter counts. The specific nine-letter requirement makes "manicured" the most logical fit for this particular clue structure.
Tips for Crossword Solving
- When encountering clues about neat grooming or careful maintenance, consider the letter count and think beyond literal interpretations.
- Words like "manicured" often appear in crosswords because they combine common concepts with specific letter patterns that fit puzzle grids effectively.
- Look for crossing letters that can help confirm your answer, particularly common letters like 'M,' 'A,' 'N,' and 'D' that appear in "manicured."
- These intersections can provide crucial confirmation when you're unsure between similar possibilities.
Neatly groomed (9) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Does manicured always refer to nails?
A: No, while manicured originally referred to nail care, it now describes any carefully maintained, neat appearance or environment.
Q: Can manicured describe natural landscapes?
A: Manicured typically describes human-maintained environments rather than natural landscapes, as it implies deliberate grooming and maintenance.
Q: Are there other nine-letter words meaning neatly groomed?
A: While alternatives exist, "manicured" is the most common nine-letter answer for crossword clues about neat grooming.
Q: How often does this clue appear in crosswords?
A: Variations of this clue appear regularly in crosswords due to the useful nine-letter length and clear definition of "manicured."
