Crosswords, the beloved word puzzles, often present cryptic clues that test our knowledge and wit. Among these, the “What washing machine does” crossword clue has puzzled many. This blog post aims to provide a comprehensive guide to deciphering this enigmatic clue, exploring the various possible answers and their underlying logic.
Delving into the Possible Answers
The phrase “What washing machine does” can refer to several actions or processes associated with washing machines. Here are some of the most common answers:
- Agitates: The primary function of a washing machine is to agitate the clothes, creating friction and removing dirt and stains.
- Cleans: Washing machines use water, detergent, and agitation to clean clothes, removing dirt, grime, and bacteria.
- Dries: Some washing machines have a drying function that removes moisture from clothes, making them ready to wear or store.
- Rinses: After the wash cycle, washing machines rinse the clothes with water to remove detergent residue and any remaining dirt.
- Spins: To remove excess water, washing machines spin the clothes rapidly, forcing the water out through centrifugal force.
- Washes: The broad term “washes” encompasses all the steps involved in cleaning clothes in a washing machine.
Variations and Specifics
Depending on the context of the crossword puzzle, the specific answer to the “What washing machine does” clue may vary. For example:
- “What washing machine does to clothes” could refer to agitating, cleaning, or rinsing.
- “What washing machine does after washing” could refer to rinsing, spinning, or drying.
- “What washing machine does to remove dirt” could refer to agitating, cleaning, or rinsing.
Synonyms and Related Terms
To further assist in solving the crossword, consider the following synonyms and related terms:
- Agitate: Tumble, shake, stir
- Clean: Launder, wash, purify
- Dry: Dehydrate, desiccate
- Rinse: Flush, drench
- Spin: Revolve, rotate
- Wash: Cleanse, launder
Example Crossword Clues
To solidify our understanding, here are a few example crossword clues that use the phrase “What washing machine does”:
- Clue: What washing machine does to clothes (4 letters)
- Answer: WASH
- Clue: What washing machine does after the wash cycle (5 letters)
- Answer: RINSES
- Clue: What washing machine does to remove moisture (5 letters)
- Answer: DRIES
Final Thoughts: Embracing the Crossword Challenge
The “What washing machine does” crossword clue may seem daunting at first, but by exploring the possible answers, variations, and related terms, we can effectively unravel its mystery. With patience and a bit of logical thinking, we can conquer any crossword puzzle that comes our way.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the most common answer to the “What washing machine does” clue?
A: Washes
Q: Can a washing machine also dry clothes?
A: Yes, some washing machines have a built-in drying function.
Q: What is the purpose of agitating clothes in a washing machine?
A: Agitation creates friction, which helps remove dirt and stains from the clothes.
Q: What is the difference between rinsing and spinning in a washing machine?
A: Rinsing removes detergent residue and dirt, while spinning removes excess water.
Q: Can I use any detergent in a washing machine?
A: No, it is important to use detergents specifically designed for washing machines to avoid damage or malfunction.
