Ahoy There, Crossword Buccaneers! Unfurling Another Puzzle
Welcome, welcome, fellow crossword enthusiasts! Another day, another delightful dip into the world of cryptic clues, tantalizing definitions, and that oh-so-satisfying
click
when the final letter falls into place. Today’s quarry is an eight-letter solution, concealed behind the seemingly straightforward prompt: “Ship carries the right pennant (8).”
Now, this clue offers a tantalizing blend of literal and figurative language. On the surface, it speaks of nautical matters, immediately conjuring images of majestic vessels cutting through the waves. The mention of “ship” is our initial anchor, grounding us in the maritime realm. We must think about various types of ships, their purposes, and their historical significance. Did we instantly go to pirate ships? Did you think about battleships? Tankers?
The phrase “carries” suggests an active role. This isn’t a ship that’s merely
near
a pennant, but one that actively
bears
or
holds
it. This shifts our focus to what a ship might be carrying – is it cargo, passengers, or perhaps something more symbolic? This also implies something that could be carried
within
the vessel. It needs to physically contain something, like a word containing a letter.
Then comes the real crux of the matter: “the right pennant.” This is where the clue takes a subtly clever turn. “Right” can have multiple meanings, and crossword setters are notorious for exploiting such ambiguities. Are we talking about a pennant that is
correct
or
appropriate
? Or are we considering “right” in the directional sense, as in, “the right side” of the ship? Or, thinking even further outside the box, could “right” be a synonym or homophone that points us towards a different avenue of thought altogether?
Pennants themselves are significant. They’re flags, often triangular, used for signaling, identification, or decoration. In a naval context, they can denote rank, unit affiliation, or specific messages. Think about what a pennant represents – is it a symbol of authority, a warning, or something else entirely?
To truly unravel this clue, we need to combine these elements. We need to identify a type of ship (or a word associated with ships) that actively “carries” something related to the concept of a “right pennant” – be it a specific type of flag, a position on the vessel, or an alternative interpretation of the word “right.”
This clue isn’t just about nautical vocabulary. It requires us to think laterally, to embrace the playful deception inherent in cryptic crosswords. Consider the interplay between the literal and figurative, the obvious and the obscure. Could this be a compound word? Does maritime history offer any clues? Are there any common phrases or idioms that connect ships, pennants, and the concept of “right”?
Sharpen your pencils, engage your mental sails, and let the hunt begin! This is one that requires a touch of ingenuity and a willingness to explore all possible interpretations. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
STREAMER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 27 July 2025