doohickey crossword clue
For the crossword clue “doohickey,” the most common answers are short, generic words like ITEM , GIZMO , GADGET , THING , or DOODAD , with the “right” one depending on the letter count and any crossing letters you already have.
Common short answers
These are frequently used in American and British-style crosswords for “doohickey.” Letter counts in parentheses:
- ITEM (4)
- GIZMO (5)
- THING (5)
- DOODAD (6)
- GADGET (6)
If your clue just says “Doohickey (4),” ITEM is a very typical answer.
Longer, jokier answers
When the grid wants something more playful, setters often use these:
- DINGUS (6)
- WHATSIT / WHATSIS (7)
- THINGUMMY (9)
- THINGAMABOB (11)
- THINGAMAJIG / THINGUMABOB (11)
All of these are dictionary-recognized synonyms for a vague object or contraption, matching the sense of “doohickey.”
How to pick the right one in your puzzle
Use your grid to narrow it down:
- Count the spaces in the answer.
- 4 letters → ITEM is the standard choice.
* 5 letters → **GIZMO** , **THING**.
* 6 letters → **DOODAD** , **GADGET** , **DINGUS**.
- Check your crossing letters.
- For example, I_E with clue “Doohickey (4)” almost certainly resolves to ITEM.
- Consider the puzzle’s style.
- Daily newspaper-style grids lean on neutral words like ITEM , GADGET , GIZMO.
* Quirkier or themed puzzles may favor **THINGAMABOB** or **THINGAMAJIG**.
If you share your letter pattern and clue length, the exact answer can be pinned down quickly.