Tackling That Tricky Crossword Clue: “Excessive Saliva”
Ah, the crossword puzzle. A daily brain-teaser, a source of both satisfaction and frustration. Today, we’re diving headfirst (metaphorically, of course – unless you’re a dog!) into a particularly juicy clue:
“Excessive saliva.”
This clue presents a delightful challenge. It’s not your typical straightforward definition. It requires a little lateral thinking, a pinch of vocabulary knowledge, and perhaps even a dash of canine observation.
Let’s consider the wordplay possibilities. The clue’s simplicity is deceptive. We’re not looking for a scientific term, necessarily. Think about the common usage of the word. Where might you encounter “excessive saliva” in everyday life? Consider the context. Is the clue hinting at a particular animal? A human action or condition? Or perhaps a more figurative meaning?
The use of the word “excessive” is key. It guides us away from general terms related to saliva production and towards a more specific, emphatic word. We need a word that carries a sense of abundance, perhaps even unpleasantness, associated with this bodily fluid.
Think about the synonyms for “excessive.” Words like copious, profuse, abundant, and overflowing might help you brainstorm potential answers. Consider words that evoke a similar image or feeling. What descriptive words could you use to paint a picture of a situation where saliva is significantly more prevalent than usual?
Remember to consider the crossword’s overall difficulty level and the length of the answer required. The number of letters in the answer is a vital clue in itself. Use this information to refine your possibilities. Cross-referencing with other clues in the puzzle can often reveal a hidden connection that unlocks the answer.
Finally, don’t be afraid to consult your trusty dictionary or thesaurus if you’re truly stumped. These resources can be invaluable when tackling challenging clues, offering synonyms and related terms that may spark your memory or suggest a word you hadn’t previously considered.
Good luck, crossword solvers! I have no doubt that with a bit of careful consideration and a strategic approach, you’ll crack this clue and move on to conquer the rest of the puzzle. Let me know in the comments how you fared and what your final answer was! Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
DROOL.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Eugene Sheffer – King Feature Syndicate Crossword – Jan 3 2025