Fame Has Shaken Things Up: Tackling This Tricky 6-Letter Crossword Clue
Right, let’s dive into a crossword clue that’s been doing the rounds and causing a bit of head-scratching: “Fame has shaken up tree (6).” At first glance, it seems straightforward enough. We’re dealing with something connected to “fame,” something potentially disrupting or altering a “tree,” and the answer needs to be exactly six letters long. Easy peasy, right? Well, hold your horses!
This clue employs a classic crossword tactic: misdirection. Our brains immediately jump to literal interpretations. We start picturing famous trees (like the Bodhi tree or the Tree of Life), or perhaps a celebrity getting tangled in some branches during a photoshoot. We might even brainstorm types of trees impacted by famous people – maybe a tree planted by a celebrity as a memorial or a landmark.
The phrase “shaken up” is crucial. It suggests an action, an event that’s causing a transformation or disturbance. This is where we need to abandon the literal landscape and start thinking more abstractly. What could “fame”
do
to a tree? What kind of upheaval could it represent?
Consider this: the clue likely contains some form of wordplay. It might be an anagram, where the letters within the clue are rearranged to form the answer. Alternatively, it could be a homophone, where a word sounds like another word or phrase within the clue. Or, perhaps it utilizes a more complex form of cryptic definition where the entire clue hints at the meaning of the answer in an indirect, almost riddle-like way.
To crack this, let’s break it down further. Focus on the individual elements:
Fame:
What other words or concepts are synonymous with fame? Consider things like renown, celebrity, recognition, and notoriety. Could any of these terms trigger a different line of thought?
Shaken up:
This implies a change, a disruption, or a rearrangement. Think about actions that might cause a shift in order, a mixing up of elements. This is a HUGE hint.
Tree:
This is a relatively simple word, but don’t underestimate its potential for alternative meanings. Could it be a family tree? A decision tree? Or is it simply a literal tree, acting as a stand-in for something else?
Remember, the answer is six letters long. This constraint is a critical piece of the puzzle. It limits the possibilities and forces you to consider only words of that specific length. Use this to your advantage.
Think about common crossword conventions. Often, clues involving “has” or “is” signal a definition by example. But “shaken up” points to something more dynamic. Also, be wary of assuming that “fame” is the main component of the answer. It could be a secondary element, subtly influencing the meaning.
Solving crossword clues requires lateral thinking and a willingness to explore different interpretations. Don’t get bogged down in the obvious. Embrace the ambiguity and use the constraints to your advantage.
So, take another look at “Fame has shaken up tree (6).” Let your mind wander. Consider the possibilities, play with synonyms, and don’t be afraid to get a little bit weird. Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
REPUTE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 7 July 2025