Some crossword clues just leap out at you, presenting a delightful puzzle wrapped in clever wordplay. They challenge the mind, spark curiosity, and offer immense satisfaction when finally cracked. Today, we’re dissecting a brilliant example that perfectly illustrates the artistry behind cryptic puzzles: ‘In love with small glove! (7)‘. This particular crossword clue is a masterclass in combining a straightforward definition with inventive wordplay, a hallmark of many an engaging cryptic crossword.
Encountering a cryptic crossword clue like this, the seasoned solver immediately begins a multi-pronged attack. The first port of call is usually the definition. Here, “In love with” serves as a potential gateway to the solution. When you see phrases expressing a state of being, particularly an emotional one, your brain should automatically sift through synonyms for that specific condition. What word, fitting a seven-letter grid, perfectly encapsulates being utterly enamored or deeply fascinated by something or someone? This is the core meaning we’re chasing, the straight part of the crossword clue that anchors the entire construction.
Next, we pivot to the more playful side of the clue: “small glove”. This is where cryptic crossword clues truly shine, using everyday words in unexpected ways. The word “small” itself is a common and powerful indicator in the world of cryptic crosswords. Solvers quickly learn a handful of abbreviations that frequently represent “small” in one form or another. Think about how ‘S’ often denotes ‘small’ (as in shirt sizes), or other short forms like ‘SML’. Recognizing these standard cryptic shorthand elements is crucial for unlocking many a challenging crossword clue.
Then comes “glove.” What common synonyms or colloquial terms do we associate with a hand covering, especially one that might be part of a phrase or compound word in a crossword puzzle? Often, setters lean towards shorter, more punchy terms when constructing wordplay. A specific type of glove, perhaps one used in sport or even a more casual hand-covering, frequently appears. When analyzing this part of the crossword clue, consider words that are short and commonly used.
The magic happens when these two elements – “small” and “glove” – are brought together. The construction of many cryptic crossword clues involves placing one component directly adjacent to another. If “small” hints at a specific letter, and “glove” points to a short synonym, imagine how they might combine to form a new segment of a word. The clue subtly guides you to consider a direct combination, an arrangement that forms the backbone of the solution.
And what about that exclamation mark at the end of this captivating crossword clue? The “!” can sometimes signal an anagram, an all-in-one cryptic definition, or simply add a touch of dramatic emphasis or misdirection. In this instance, it adds a playful flourish, inviting you to enjoy the cleverness rather than pointing to a specific wordplay mechanism in itself. It’s a wink from the setter, acknowledging the delightful trickery embedded within the puzzle.
To truly conquer this type of crossword clue, the key is to hold both the definition and the wordplay in your mind simultaneously. You need a word that means “in love with” and can be built directly from a representation of “small” followed by a common term for “glove.” The seven-letter length is your final validator, ensuring that your proposed solution fits perfectly into the grid. It’s the convergence of these elements – the precise definition, the cryptic indicators, and the letter count – that makes solving such a crossword clue a genuinely rewarding experience.
This particular crossword clue is a fantastic demonstration of why so many people are drawn to daily crossword puzzles. It showcases the linguistic dexterity and lateral thinking required, turning a simple grid into an exhilarating mental workout. Unraveling such a crossword clue doesn’t just fill a square; it provides a genuine moment of triumph, a testament to the power of careful analysis and a good grasp of crossword conventions.
Available Answers:
SMITTEN.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Friday, 14 November 2025