Every dedicated solver knows that some of the most satisfying triumphs in a crossword puzzle come from cracking a seemingly straightforward clue that initially stumped you. It’s the kind of brainteaser that makes you pause, reconsider, and perhaps even chuckle once the answer finally clicks. Today, we’re diving into precisely that kind of challenge: the crossword clue “__ press: small appliance.”
At first glance, this particular crossword clue appears deceptively simple. “Small appliance” paints a broad picture of countless household gadgets, from toasters to blenders. The real meat of the puzzle, and where the wordplay often hides, lies in the word “press.” What kind of “press” are we talking about? And what common small appliance fits the bill, where the leading word fills that intriguing blank?
The term “press” itself is wonderfully versatile in the English language, making it a favorite for crossword constructors looking to introduce a touch of ambiguity. It can refer to a device that exerts force, a machine for printing, a large piece of furniture, or even a journalistic institution. However, the qualifier “small appliance” immediately guides us away from the more grandiose interpretations. We’re looking for something you’d find in a kitchen, a laundry room, or perhaps a craft corner—a compact, everyday item designed to apply pressure for a specific purpose.
When confronted with a crossword clue like this, the initial mental scramble usually involves a quick inventory of “press” related items in a typical home. Do you think of a device that flattens clothing to remove wrinkles? Or perhaps a gadget that extracts liquid from fruits or vegetables? Could it be something used to form food into a specific shape, like a patty or a sandwich? The possibilities, though narrowed by “small appliance,” are still numerous enough to keep a seasoned crossword solver on their toes.
The brilliance of this type of crossword clue lies in its ability to evoke multiple common objects, forcing you to dig deeper into your vocabulary and sometimes even your own household inventory. Is there a “press” that’s central to morning routines for a popular beverage? Or one that’s essential for creating a perfectly grilled lunch? The first word of the solution often describes the
function
of the press or the
item
it processes, providing that crucial context.
Solving a crossword clue that relies on such common items often involves thinking about the most frequently used or iconic versions of a category. Constructors love to leverage items that are universally recognized. The blank before “press” is the key here—it’s a descriptive adjective or noun that pinpoints the exact type of “press” the clue is hinting at. Without that leading word, “press” on its own is too generic for a specific appliance.
This crossword clue isn’t just about knowing an object; it’s about understanding how the English language categorizes and names everyday tools. It’s a test of common knowledge wrapped in wordplay, a hallmark of excellent crossword design. The “Aha!” moment comes when you connect the concept of “pressing” with a particular small appliance, and the missing word perfectly completes the picture, fitting the letter count of the grid. It’s a moment of clarity that reminds us why we love tackling these daily brainteasers.
For many, this particular crossword clue will be a delightful little challenge, a fleeting moment of contemplation before the answer reveals itself as perfectly logical and perhaps even obvious in retrospect. It’s a perfect example of how a simple phrase can hide a satisfyingly clever solution, making you feel just a little bit smarter for having figured it out.
Available Answers:
PANINI.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Sunday’s Daily By Zhouqin Burnikel / Ed. Patti Varol