Emblem of the tailless animal (5)
Tail-less Trouble: Cracking the Code of a Cryptic Crossword Clue
Ah, the joy (and sometimes frustration) of tackling a cryptic crossword. Each clue a puzzle within a puzzle, demanding a keen eye for wordplay and a healthy dose of lateral thinking. Today, we’re diving into one such clue that’s sure to give solvers a good mental workout:
“Emblem of the tailless animal (5)“
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At first glance, it seems straightforward enough. We’re looking for a five-letter word that represents something associated with a tailless animal. But the beauty of cryptic crosswords lies in their double meanings and clever wordplay. This clue is no exception.
Let’s break down the components:
“Emblem”
: This suggests we’re looking for a symbol or representation. It could be a physical object, a concept, or even a characteristic.
“Tailless animal”
: This hints at a creature without a tail. The list of possibilities is quite vast, ranging from amphibians like frogs and toads to mammals like rabbits and kangaroos.
The trick lies in identifying the connection between these two seemingly disparate elements.
Is the answer a physical attribute common to all tailless animals? Perhaps it’s a cultural symbol associated with a specific tailless species? Or maybe it’s a metaphorical representation of something lacking a tail altogether?
Let’s explore some potential avenues:
The physical:
Could the answer be something like “HOPS,” referring to the common mode of locomotion for many tailless creatures? Or perhaps “SKIN” signifying the external covering of these animals?
The symbolic:
Perhaps the clue hints at a historical or cultural emblem tied to a particular tailless species, like the “RABBIT” associated with Easter or the “FROG” often used in fables and folklore.
The abstract:
Could the answer be a concept like “LOSS” representing the absence of a tail? Or maybe “CUT” signifying a physical separation or amputation of the tail?
The possibilities are endless, and that’s what makes cryptic crosswords so fascinating.
So, grab your trusty dictionary, flex your mental muscles, and let’s crack this clue together. What five-letter word embodies the very essence of being tailless? Don’t forget to consider the wordplay, the double meanings, and the various interpretations! Happy solving!
Available Answers:
BADGE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Friday, 12 July 2024