Small wave or series of waves (6) Crossword Clue
Answer: RIPPLE (6 letters)
The answer to the crossword clue "Small wave or series of waves" with 6 letters is "RIPPLE".Ripple refers to a small wave or a series of gentle waves created on the surface of water, often caused by a slight breeze or a small object disturbing the water. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a gradual effect or movement that spreads outward from a central point, like the ripple effect in social or emotional contexts.
Why “Ripple” Fits
The clue asks for a single word (6 letters) meaning “small wave or series of waves.” The answer, RIPPLE, fits perfectly:
- Small wave or series of waves: Ripple describes a small undulation or wave-like motion occurring on the surface of water, often caused by an object’s disturbance or light breeze — exactly matching the clue’s definition.
- Direct match: With six letters, ripple matches the clue’s enumeration precisely.
- Precise meaning: The word captures both the physical motion of small waves and metaphorical effects, extending the idea of spreading influence or disturbance outward in subtle waves.
Ripple is a vivid word that draws from natural imagery and extends into figurative and scientific use:
- Origin and usage: From Middle English ripp(e)lein (to wrinkle slightly), likely imitative of the soft motion or sound of water. First recorded in the 17th century to describe gentle wave movements.
Contexts:
- Physical: Small vibrations or waves, especially on water — “A pebble thrown into the pond caused ripples.”
- Metaphorical: Describes spreading results or influence — “The news sent ripples of surprise through the crowd.”
- Scientific: Used in physics to describe minor wave oscillations or interference patterns.
Examples:
- “Wind caused ripples to form across the lake.”
- “A ripple of laughter ran through the audience.”
- “Her decision created a ripple effect across the industry.”
In quick crosswords like “Small wave or series of waves (6),” clues often rely on simple, direct definitions tied to common natural or observable phenomena:
- Definition: “Small wave or series of waves” corresponds directly to ripple — no additional wordplay involved.
- Common clue type: Straightforward description clues like this test vocabulary precision rather than cryptic interpretation.
- Associated expressions: Crosswords frequently use similar synonyms like undulation (10), wavelet (7), or surge (5), but the enumeration narrows this clue to ripple.
- Descriptive accuracy: Ripple’s link to minor, repeating, and widening circular waves distinguishes it from grander terms like wave or tide.
