In the world of crossword puzzles, particularly in the New York Times Mini Crossword, clues that refer to natural phenomena or animal sounds often stump even seasoned solvers. One such example is the phrase “cried like a crow”, which appeared in the September 12, 2023 puzzle. The correct answer to this clue is “cawed”, a word that mimics the distinctive sound made by crows. This word might not be commonly used in everyday English, making it a fun yet challenging addition to the puzzle.
The Meaning Behind “Cawed”
Crows, like many birds, communicate using distinct vocalizations, and the loud, harsh call of a crow is described as a “caw”. This type of onomatopoeia captures the essence of the bird’s cry, and in past tense, it becomes “cawed.” Crossword clues like this rely on such precise language to evoke imagery and sound, helping solvers make the right connections.
FAQ
- What does “cried like a crow” mean?
The phrase refers to the distinct vocal sound made by crows, commonly referred to as “cawing.” In crossword puzzles, the answer is usually “cawed.” - Why is “cawed” the answer in the New York Times crossword?
The word “cawed” specifically describes the sound that crows make, fitting perfectly with the clue “cried like a crow” in crossword puzzles. - What other bird sounds are used in crosswords?
Crossword puzzles frequently include animal sounds such as “tweeted” for small birds or “quacked” for ducks. - Is “cawed” a common crossword answer?
While not as frequent as some other answers, “cawed” does make appearances in puzzles, particularly when clues involve bird sounds. - Where can I find more crossword clues like this?
You can explore additional puzzles with animal-related clues in sources like the New York Times Crossword and other popular puzzle platforms.
In essence, crossword clues like “cried like a crow” not only challenge your vocabulary but also bring a playful interaction with nature into the puzzle-solving experience.
