Crossword puzzles have been a beloved pastime for generations, challenging word enthusiasts to flex their mental muscles. One particularly intriguing clue that often stumps solvers is the “de plume crossword clue.” This clue refers to a pen name or pseudonym used by a writer, adding an extra layer of mystery to the puzzle.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of the de plume crossword clue, exploring its meaning, popular variations, and strategies for cracking this enigmatic hint. We’ll also showcase some famous personalities known by their de plume and provide an interactive puzzle example for readers to test their skills.
Understanding ‘De Plume Crossword Clue’
The term “de plume” is a French phrase that translates to “pen name” in English. It refers to a pseudonym or fictitious name used by an author instead of their real name when publishing their works. This practice allows writers to separate their personal identity from their published pieces, providing a level of anonymity and creative freedom.
When solving “De Plume Crossword Clue” Puzzle is often used as a clue for the answer “NOM,” which is French for “name.” Other possible answers include:
- PEN NAME
- PSEUDONYM
- ALIAS
The Crossword Solver offers a matching answer section with confidence levels for various words related to the “de plume” clue:
| Answer | Confidence Level |
|---|---|
| NOM | 95% |
| NOMs | 80% |
| ELIA | 60% |
| TANTE | 60% |
| ALIAS | 60% |
| SAKI | 60% |
| TEY | 60% |
| SAND | 60% |
| PSEUD | 60% |
| PENNAME | 60% |
Authors may choose to use a pen name for various reasons, such as:
- Disguising their gender
- Distancing themselves from previous works
- Protecting their identity
- Exploring different writing styles or genres without affecting their existing reputation
Popular Crossword Clues for ‘De Plume’
When solving crossword puzzles, clues related to “de plume” can take on various forms, hinting at the concept of a pen name or pseudonym. Some popular variations include:
- “Nom de plume” or “Noms de plume”
- “Famous nom de plume”
- “Author’s pseudonym”
- “Assumed name”
- “Fictitious name”
- “Literary creation”
These clues often reference well-known authors who used pen names, such as:
- George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans)
- Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens)
- Lewis Carroll (Charles Lutwidge Dodgson)
- George Orwell (Eric Arthur Blair)
- Boz (Charles Dickens)
Other clues may involve wordplay or cryptic references to the concept of a pseudonym, such as:
- “Book cover?”
- “Can celebrity, Le Carré for one?”
- “Pound has a good reputation, like George Eliot?”
- “Note Europe’s backing Philistine’s approval of Matilda?”
The Crossword Solver website offers a comprehensive list of possible answers for “de plume” related clues, including:
| Answer | Letters |
|---|---|
| NOM | 3 |
| NOMS | 4 |
| ALIAS | 5 |
| PENNAME | 7 |
| PEN NAME | 8 |
| PSEUDONYM | 9 |
| NOM DE PLUME | 10 |
| NOMS DE PLUME | 7 |
By familiarizing themselves with these common clues and their corresponding answers, crossword enthusiasts can more easily tackle the mysterious “de plume” hint when it appears in their puzzles.
Strategies for Solving De Plume Crossword Clue
When tackling the de plume crossword clue, several strategies can help you unravel the mystery and arrive at the correct answer. One effective approach is to utilize the resources provided by Crossword Solver, such as:
- Home: Access a comprehensive database of crossword clues and answers.
- Quick Solve: Enter the letters you have already solved to find potential matches.
- Solution Wizard: Narrow down possible answers based on the clue and letter count.
- Clue Database: Search for specific clues and their corresponding answers.
- Crossword Forum: Engage with a community of crossword enthusiasts for tips and discussions.
- Anagram Solver: Unscramble letters to form potential answers.
- Online Crosswords: Practice your skills with a variety of online puzzles.
To solve cryptic crossword clues related to de plume, it’s essential to understand their structure. Every clue consists of a definition, which can be found at the beginning or end of the clue, and a code or wordplay that explains how to construct the answer. For example, consider the clue “recording device Cheers prior at the outset with a very odd spelling thereof prior.” The definition is “recording device,” while the wordplay involves:
- “Cheers” meaning “thank you”
- “prior” indicating the first letter
- “outset” referring to the beginning
The answer, in this case, is “tar,” a recording device. Abbreviations are also common in cryptic crosswords, and these must be supported by the dictionary. For instance, the letter “T” can stand for “time,” “tenor,” “Thailand,” “surface tension,” “Tesla,” or “tritium.”
Other devices used in cryptic crossword clues include:
- Anagrams: Rearranging the letters of a word to form a new word.
- Charades: Combining parts of words to form a new word.
- Homophones: Words that sound the same but have different meanings.
- Double definitions: Two definitions that point to the same answer.
- Container clues: Inserting letters or words inside another to form a new word.
- Reversal clues: Spelling a word backward.
When solving crosswords in general, approach clues methodically, answering each one-by-one and moving on quickly if unsure. Look for easier clues like fill-in-the-blanks, and be aware of themes that can guide answers when there are multiple options. Improving your general knowledge, including capital cities, famous artists, biblical references, and Roman numerals, can also aid in solving crosswords. Understanding common crossword clue notations and practicing regularly by looking up clues for hints or answers can help you finish the puzzle and build your knowledge base. For beginners, crossword puzzles by Eugene Sheffer and Thomas Joseph are recommended.
Famous Personalities Known by Their ‘De Plume Crossword Clue’
Throughout history, numerous famous personalities have adopted pen names or pseudonyms for various reasons. Some notable examples include:
- Mark Twain (Samuel Clemens): The renowned American author chose his pen name based on a riverboat term, “mark twain,” which means “two fathoms deep.”
- Robert Galbraith (J.K. Rowling): The author of the Harry Potter series used this pseudonym to publish crime novels, wanting to separate her work from her famous fantasy series.
- Richard Bachman (Stephen King): King used this pen name to publish several novels in the late 1970s and early 1980s, testing whether his success was due to talent or luck.
In the 19th century, many women writers used male pen names to be taken seriously in a male-dominated literary world and bypass societal norms. The Brontë sisters, Charlotte, Emily, and Anne, initially published their works under the names Currer, Ellis, and Acton Bell, respectively.
Some authors adopted pen names to maintain privacy and protect their families from embarrassment or unwanted attention. Lewis Carroll (Charles Dodgson) and George Orwell (Eric Arthur Blair) are prime examples of this practice. Other famous personalities who used pen names include:
- Dr. Seuss (Theodor Geisel)
- Benjamin Franklin (used various pseudonyms, such as Silence Dogood and Richard Saunders)
- William Makepeace Thackeray (used pseudonyms like George Savage Fitz-Boodle and Michael Angelo Titmarsh)
Pen names have also been used for creative expression or to explore different genres. Octavia E. Butler (Jules Gondry) and Ishmael Reed are examples of authors who used pseudonyms for specific works or to express different aspects of their creativity. Some authors, like Zora Neale Hurston and Langston Hughes, briefly adopted pen names or aliases during their careers, while others, such as Ntozake Shange and Maya Angelou, embraced new names as part of their cultural or personal identities.
Interactive Puzzle Example
To put your newfound knowledge to the test, try your hand at this interactive crossword puzzle featuring the “de plume” clue:
| Across | Clue |
|---|---|
| 1 | ___ de plume |
Possible answers:
- ALANA
- NOM
- NOMS
- EON
The Crossword Solver offers a variety of resources to help you tackle this puzzle and many others:
- Home: Access a comprehensive database of crossword clues and answers.
- Play!: Enjoy seven new printable and online crossword puzzles daily, available for free.
- Solver: Enter the letters you have already solved to find potential matches.
- Solutions: Narrow down possible answers based on the clue and letter count.
- The Big Book: Explore an extensive collection of crossword puzzles and clues.
For an extra challenge, consider attempting to solve the notorious “Cain’s Jawbone” crossword puzzle book. First published in 1934, this murder mystery features 100 pages printed in a random order, tasking readers with sorting the pages correctly to reveal six murder victims and their respective murderers. As of December 2022, only four people have successfully solved the puzzle, making it a true test of skill for crossword enthusiasts.
Conclusion
The de plume crossword clue serves as a fascinating gateway into the world of pen names and the reasons behind their use. From famous authors like Mark Twain and J.K. Rowling to the countless writers who have embraced pseudonyms for personal, social, or creative reasons, the practice of using a nom de plume has a rich history. By understanding the various clues and strategies associated with this crossword puzzle hint, word enthusiasts can sharpen their skills and unravel the mystery behind the de plume.
As you embark on your crossword-solving journey, remember to utilize the wealth of resources available, such as the Crossword Solver website and its array of tools. With practice, patience, and a keen eye for wordplay, you’ll soon find yourself confidently tackling even the most challenging de plume clues, uncovering the hidden identities of the literary world’s most enigmatic figures.
FAQs about “De Plume Crossword Clue”
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What does “de plume” mean in a crossword clue?
- “De plume” refers to a pen name or pseudonym used by an author, often hinting at the answer “NOM” in crossword puzzles.
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Why do crossword puzzles use “de plume” clues?
- Crossword puzzles incorporate “de plume” clues to add a level of challenge and intrigue for solvers, testing their knowledge of literary pseudonyms.
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What are some common synonyms for “de plume” in crossword puzzles?
- Common synonyms include “pen name,” “pseudonym,” and “alias,” all of which denote a fictitious name used by an author.
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How can I solve “de plume” clues in crossword puzzles?
- To solve “de plume” clues, familiarize yourself with common pseudonyms used by authors and employ wordplay and deduction strategies to find the correct answer.
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Who are some famous authors known for using “de plume”?
- Famous authors include George Eliot (Mary Ann Evans), Mark Twain (Samuel Langhorne Clemens), and Lewis Carroll (Charles Lutwidge Dodgson), among others.
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What are some variations of “de plume” clues in crossword puzzles?
- Variations may include “nom de plume,” “famous nom de plume,” “author’s pseudonym,” “assumed name,” and “literary creation,” among others.
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Are there any online resources to help solve “de plume” crossword clues?
- Yes, websites like Crossword Solver offer databases of clues and answers, as well as tools like Quick Solve and Solution Wizard to aid in crossword solving.
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Why do authors use pen names or pseudonyms?
- Authors may use pseudonyms to maintain privacy, experiment with different writing styles or genres, or distance themselves from previous works.
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Can I find interactive puzzles related to “de plume” clues online?
- Yes, some websites offer interactive crossword puzzles where you can practice solving clues related to “de plume” and other themes.
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Are there any famous puzzles related to “de plume” clues?
- Yes, puzzles like “Cain’s Jawbone” challenge solvers to decipher complex clues, including those related to pseudonyms, making them a notable test of crossword-solving skills.
