There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of peeling back the layers of a truly brilliant crossword clue. This week’s puzzle offered up a gem, a masterfully crafted challenge that immediately grabbed attention. The long central
crossword clue
, “Avian that plunges for prey, or what can be found in 14-, 28-, 52-, and 60-Across,” served as the grid’s magnificent revealer, setting the stage for a delightful journey of deduction and wordplay. It’s the kind of
crossword clue
that makes you pause, smile, and eagerly anticipate the “aha!” moment.
The first half of this intriguing
crossword clue
paints a vivid picture: an “Avian that plunges for prey.” Immediately, the mind conjures images of powerful wings, keen eyesight, and a dramatic descent from the sky. What majestic bird comes to mind? What action defines its hunting prowess? This initial imagery provides a strong starting point, leading towards a specific concept, an act of rapid, downward motion. For any solver, this part of the
crossword clue
is a concrete anchor, grounding the puzzle in a tangible, natural phenomenon.
But the true genius of this
crossword clue
lies in its second part, the clever connection it draws to other entries in the grid. “Or what can be found in 14-, 28-, 52-, and 60-Across” transforms a seemingly straightforward definition into a thematic quest. Suddenly, the puzzle isn’t just about identifying a bird; it’s about uncovering a shared element that ties together multiple solutions. Each of those numbered across clues holds a piece of the puzzle, a word or phrase that incorporates the core idea revealed by the long
crossword clue
. This is where the real fun begins for any dedicated solver, turning a simple definition into a treasure hunt across the grid.
The challenge then becomes: what is that common thread? What single word or concept links the predatory avian’s characteristic action with the solutions to those other specific
crossword clue
entries? It’s a fantastic test of lateral thinking, requiring solvers to not only understand the explicit definition but also to perceive the implicit connections woven throughout the puzzle’s fabric. The moment you spot that repeating pattern, that shared linguistic component across 14-, 28-, 52-, and 60-Across, everything clicks into place. It’s a testament to brilliant puzzle construction, turning what might seem like a simple bird definition into a grand thematic revelation that elevates the entire solving experience.
This kind of multi-layered
crossword clue
is what keeps us coming back to the grid day after day. It’s more than just finding the right word; it’s about appreciating the artistry of the constructor, the way they hide clues in plain sight and guide you towards a satisfying discovery. The pursuit of such solutions is why the
crossword clue
remains a timeless intellectual pursuit. For those tackling this particular puzzle, the journey to uncovering the common thread promised by this avian-themed
crossword clue
is truly rewarding. It’s a prime example of how a single, well-placed clue can unify an entire puzzle, making the whole greater than the sum of its parts. Happy solving!
Available Answers:
DIVINGBIRD.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Friday’s Daily By Shannon Rapp & Will Eisenberg / Ed. Patti Varol