Crossword Solver

How to use the solver

Stuck on a crossword clue? Our free crossword solver searches a large, frequently updated database of clues and answers from popular publishers to help you finish the crossword you are working on. Type a clue, add an optional word length, and (if you know some letters) a pattern like C???E — we'll return likely answers ranked by relevance and recency.

Example

1. Enter your clue. e.g. “Largest Greek island”.
2. (Optional) Add word length. Choose the number of letters if the grid tells you. e.g. 5
3. (Optional) Add a pattern. Use ? for unknowns (C???E) or counts (C3E).

Results show each clue, answer length, last seen date and source (e.g., NYT Mini, Guardian Quick) exist for that clue text. Select the clue you want and we will take you to the clue answer page. Don't worry, we won't reveal the answer straight away, there are many options to help you solve the puzzle, including revealing one letter at a time.

Tips for solving crosswords faster

1. Start with easy wins. Scan all clues once and fill the “gimmes” to create letter crossings for tougher entries.
2. Use the theme. Read the title and themed clues—recurring patterns often unlock long entries.
3. Fill short words first. Three– and four–letter staples are common and quickly seed crossings.
4. Skip and return. If a clue stalls you, move on; new crossings will clarify it later.
5. Watch for wordplay & puns. Double meanings, homophones, and a clue-ending “?” can signal trickery.
6. Know the crosswordese. Common fillers (OBI, EEL, ERA, OREO, ERE…) appear often—use them to your advantage.
7. Match grammar. Align tense, number, and part of speech to the clue (“Used to hurry” → RAN).
8. Spot abbreviations. Clues hinting at abbr. (e.g., “approx.”, “fig.”) expect abbreviated answers.
9. For cryptics, think mechanisms. Look for anagrams, hidden answers, charades, containers, reversals, and double defs.
10. Take breaks. A short reset can reveal what you missed.
11. Practice. The more you solve, the faster you’ll recognize patterns, devices, and clue styles.

About our database

We have millions of crossword clues and answers in our database, which are updated every day. We also track when and where each answer has appeared.