Understanding Today's Crossword Puzzle
In today's crossword puzzle, the clue is "A male hawk" and the answer is "TIERCEL". Let's break down the clue and discuss why it leads us to this specific answer:
1. The clue states "A male hawk." This suggests that we are looking for a specific term related to a hawk that is specifically male.
2. The answer "TIERCEL" fits this description perfectly as it is a term used specifically for a male hawk.
To elaborate further:
- TIERCEL: The term "tiercel" is derived from the Old French word "tiercelet," which means "a third." In medieval falconry, the "tiercel" referred to a male hawk that was about one-third smaller in size compared to the female hawk. This term is used to distinguish the male hawk from the female hawk.
It is important to note that crossword clues often provide clever wordplay or use specialized terms to direct us towards the correct answer. In this case, the clue "A male hawk" leads us specifically to "TIERCEL" because it is the designated term for a male hawk in falconry. This showcases the beauty and complexity of crossword puzzles, where finding the right answer requires both a strong command of language and knowledge of specific terms and their meanings.
By understanding the nuances of crossword clues, we can engage in a fun and challenging exercise that not only entertains but also broadens our knowledge and vocabulary. Tackling crossword puzzles regularly can help improve our linguistic abilities and mental agility.
So, in today's crossword puzzle, the answer to the clue "A male hawk" is "TIERCEL," a term specifically used to denote a male hawk in falconry.
That crossword clue published 1 time/s & has 1 answer/s.
Crossword | Date | Answer |
The Times Specialist | 17 December 2017 | TIERCEL |