How to Use WhatsthisWord.com to Find Crossword Answers

Enter your clue in the site's search box, add the letter count of the answer, and submit. WhatsthisWord.com then returns a list of matching crossword answers you can scan for the one that fits. This works best when you already know the clue text and how many letters the answer has.

What WhatsthisWord.com Is

WhatsthisWord.com is a crossword solver that has been helping users since 2008, according to the site. Its stated purpose is simple: find crossword answers for any clue by searching with the clue and its letter count.

Step-by-Step: Finding an Answer

1. Enter the crossword clue

Type the clue exactly as it appears in your puzzle into the input box. The clue is the prompt text, not the answer.

2. Enter the letter count

Add the number of letters the answer should have. This is the key filter — the same clue can map to different answers depending on length.

3. Submit the search

After submitting, the site returns a list of crossword answers that match your clue and letter count.

4. Review the matching answers

Read through the returned list and pick the answer that fits both the clue's meaning and the letter count. If several results appear, use the clue's wording and any crossing letters you already have to narrow it down.

Why the Letter Count Matters

Supplying the letter count is what turns a broad search into a usable shortlist, so always fill it in when you know it.

Common Snags

• No results returned — double-check the spelling of the clue and confirm the letter count is correct.
• Too many results — recheck the letter count; a wrong count is the usual cause.
• Clue wording differs — puzzles often rephrase clues, so try a close variant if the exact text returns nothing.

Quick Checklist

1. Copy the clue as written.
2. Count the letters in the answer grid.
3. Enter both and submit.
4. Match the returned answers against the clue and any crossing letters.