The journey through the cryptic world of a crossword puzzle often presents us with delightful challenges, and some of the most satisfying come from seemingly straightforward definitions. Today, let’s turn our attention to a classic example that frequently appears and can sometimes hold up an entire grid: the
crossword clue
“Headstrong (9).”
At first glance, “Headstrong” seems simple enough. We all know what it means – someone who is determined to do what they want, often refusing to change their mind or be persuaded. This personality trait is vivid and common, making it a rich target for a
crossword clue
. But the real art of solving this particular type of
crossword clue
lies in finding the
exact
nine-letter word that perfectly captures its essence.
When faced with a
crossword clue
like “Headstrong (9),” the immediate instinct for many solvers is to brainstorm synonyms. What words spring to mind that mean “headstrong”? Perhaps “stubborn,” “willful,” “resolute,” or “unyielding.” These are all excellent starting points, but the crucial piece of information here is the “(9)” – the letter count. This single number drastically narrows down the field of possibilities and transforms a general definition into a specific lexical hunt.
A common pitfall with such a direct
crossword clue
is settling on a synonym that’s close but doesn’t quite match the length. You might have a six-letter word, or an eight-letter one, firmly in your mind, only to find it doesn’t fit the grid. This is where the true detective work begins. We need to delve deeper into the lexicon, exploring words that might not be our absolute first thought but which perfectly convey the meaning of “headstrong” and, crucially, consist of nine letters.
Consider the nuances of “headstrong.” Is it simply about being unshakeable, or does it imply a certain level of defiance or even rebelliousness? Does it suggest a strong will that borders on being difficult to manage? Each subtle shade of meaning can lead to a different family of synonyms, and within those families, we’re searching for that elusive nine-letter gem. This detailed exploration is a key part of cracking many a challenging
crossword clue
.
Often, the setter of a daily
crossword clue
might choose a word that isn’t the most common synonym but is perfectly valid. This is done to add a layer of challenge, ensuring that solvers don’t just jump to the most obvious answer. It forces us to consult our mental thesaurus more thoroughly, perhaps even resorting to external resources if the crossing letters aren’t yet providing enough help.
When tackling this type of
crossword clue
, it’s always beneficial to consider the surrounding entries in your puzzle. The letters that emerge from other solved clues will serve as invaluable guides, eliminating incorrect possibilities and nudging you closer to the correct nine-letter word for “Headstrong.” Each confirmed letter is like a breadcrumb, leading you through the labyrinth of potential solutions.
Ultimately, solving a
crossword clue
like “Headstrong (9)” is a testament to both vocabulary depth and strategic thinking. It’s not just about knowing what a word means, but knowing
which
word, from a multitude of options, perfectly fits the setter’s intent and the puzzle’s constraints. Keep these tips in mind as you face your next similar
crossword clue
and enjoy the satisfaction of seeing that elusive answer slot perfectly into place.
Available Answers:
OBSTINATE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Tuesday, 2 December 2025