Holds protectively, like a baby or a football

Cradle Clues: A Gentle Hold in Crossword Land

This week’s crossword puzzle took me on a journey through the realms of tenderness and protection. One particular clue, short and sweet, had me pondering the essence of a gentle embrace. It simply read, “Holds protectively, like a baby or a football.”

This clue isn’t about brute force, but about a delicate touch, a secure grasp that evokes images of a loving parent holding a newborn or a quarterback preparing to launch the pigskin. It’s a clue that whispers of comfort and security, yet it also hints at a certain degree of control.

The answer, however, remained elusive. I found myself sifting through synonyms for “hold” and “protect,” drawing mental connections between the image of a cradled baby and a football poised for action. The more I pondered, the more I realized that the answer wasn’t just about the act of holding but about the
feeling
of it, the sense of safety and anticipation it evokes.

This type of clue, where the answer hinges on a specific emotion or feeling, is often found in cryptic crosswords. It requires a bit more than just a straight definition; it demands an understanding of the nuance and context behind the words.

As I delved deeper into the possibilities, I started to feel a sense of excitement, of being on the verge of unraveling the mystery. The crossword clue, like a good riddle, had become more than just a puzzle to solve; it had become a journey of discovery.

So, my fellow crossword enthusiasts, what do you think? What word captures the essence of this gentle hold, the protective embrace that brings a sense of calm and security? Let me know your thoughts in the comments below!

Available Answers:

Cradles.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Daily Celebrity Crossword – 7/7/24 People Sunday