One prone to laughing fits (8) Crossword Clue
Answer: HYSTERIC
The crossword clue One prone to laughing fits (8) has the answer HYSTERIC. The word "hysteric" refers to someone who is prone to uncontrollable emotional reactions, including fits of laughter. This term comes from the Greek word "hystera," meaning uterus, historically linked to emotional disturbances in women.
Understanding the Crossword Clue: One Prone to Laughing Fits
HYSTERIC is the 8-letter answer to "One prone to laughing fits." This crossword clue uses a straightforward definition approach, where the solution directly describes someone who experiences uncontrollable episodes of laughter or emotional outbursts.
The word hysteric refers to a person who suffers from hysteria or displays hysterical behavior, which can manifest as fits of uncontrollable laughter, crying, or other emotional reactions. In crossword puzzles, this type of clue relies on the solver's knowledge of psychological or medical terminology.
Solving Strategy Tips
When encountering clues about emotional states or behavioral patterns, consider:
- Medical or psychological terminology
- Words ending in common suffixes like "-ic" or "-al"
- The distinction between clinical terms and colloquial descriptions
- Historical context that might influence word choice
For this particular clue, the phrase "laughing fits" strongly suggests a medical or psychological condition rather than simple amusement, pointing toward clinical terminology like HYSTERIC.
Related Crossword Answers
Other psychological or medical terms frequently appearing in crosswords include:
- MANIC (5 letters) - "Extremely energetic"
- PHOBIC (6 letters) - "Fearful type"
- NEUROTIC (8 letters) - "Anxious sort"
- PSYCHOTIC (9 letters) - "Out of touch with reality"
These terms often appear in puzzles because they combine specific meanings with useful letter patterns for constructors.
One prone to laughing fits (8) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Why is HYSTERIC the answer to "One prone to laughing fits"?
A: HYSTERIC describes someone who experiences hysterical episodes, which can include uncontrollable laughing fits. The term fits both the literal definition and the 8-letter requirement perfectly.
Q: Are there any other possible 8-letter answers for this clue?
A: While theoretically other words might fit, HYSTERIC is the most precise match. Terms like "COMEDIAN" don't capture the involuntary, medical nature implied by "fits," and "GIGGLER" is only 7 letters.
Q: Is this considered an easy or difficult crossword clue?
A: This is typically considered a medium-difficulty clue. It requires knowledge of psychological terminology but uses straightforward definition-style wording that experienced solvers should recognize.
