Locked Hands, Locked Minds: Decoding Today’s Crossword Challenge
Alright, fellow crossword enthusiasts! Let’s dive headfirst into another mental workout. Today, we’re tackling a particularly intriguing clue: “Wrestling contest where opponents hold hands.”
This one immediately conjures up a few images, doesn’t it? We’re dealing with something competitive, undeniably physical, and crucially, involving that specific and somewhat unusual act of holding hands. Forget your standard takedowns and suplexes. This clue hints at something a bit more…refined?
Right off the bat, the phrase “wrestling contest” tells us we’re looking for a term that directly relates to some form of competitive grappling. But the “holding hands” aspect throws a significant curveball. Traditional wrestling, in its most common forms, doesn’t prioritize or even routinely involve that kind of grip.
Therefore, we need to think outside the box. Consider:
The Specificity of “Contest”:
This isn’t just a casual play fight. The clue implies a structured event, likely with rules and a defined winner. We can eliminate anything that’s more of a playful interaction.
The Implication of “Wrestling”:
While holding hands might seem antithetical to the image of burly wrestlers, the core concept of wrestling—using physical force and skill to gain an advantage—is still present. We’re looking for a contest where leverage, balance, and controlled strength are key.
The Significance of “Opponents”:
This emphasizes the competitive nature. It’s not a cooperative activity or a dance; it’s a head-to-head challenge where individuals are striving to overcome each other.
The Unusual Nature of “Hold Hands”:
This detail is the linchpin. It suggests a very specific type of wrestling contest, likely not one that’s commonly known or widely practiced. This steers us away from mainstream wrestling genres like Sumo or Greco-Roman.
Therefore, break down the clue into its core elements:
Category:
Wrestling
Method:
Holding hands
Context:
Formal competition
Considering these points, what types of wrestling-related activities immediately come to mind? Think about niche sports, traditional competitions from different cultures, or even historical forms of grappling. What kind of contest utilizes a hand-to-hand grip as a defining characteristic?
This clue definitely demands a blend of sporting knowledge and creative problem-solving. It’s a reminder that crossword puzzles can delve into the obscure corners of our world, unearthing practices and traditions that might otherwise remain hidden. So, arm yourselves with that knowledge and start brainstorming.
Good luck, and happy solving! Share your thoughts and theories in the comments below – I’m excited to see what you come up with!
Available Answers:
THUMBWAR.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Tuesday’s Daily By Noelle Griskey / Ed. Patti Varol