There’s a unique thrill that comes with conquering a challenging crossword clue. It’s that moment of pure satisfaction when seemingly disparate pieces of information click into place, revealing an elegant solution that was hiding in plain sight all along. Every seasoned solver of a
crossword clue
knows the feeling: the initial blank stare, the mental rummaging through a vast lexicon, and then the triumphant ink-stroke that fills the grid and propels you closer to completion. It’s a journey of wit, wordplay, and often, a surprising amount of general knowledge.
This week, we’re dissecting a classic example of a head-scratching
crossword clue
that, at first glance, might send you down a rabbit hole of medical terminology, only to reveal a deceptively simple answer. The clue in question: “Gout-affected digit (3)“. It’s a beautifully crafted puzzle, weaving together a specific medical condition with a common anatomical term, all constrained by a concise three-letter answer.
Let’s break down the elements that make this particular
crossword clue
so intriguing. First, “gout-affected.” Gout, for those unfamiliar with its ancient and painful history, is a form of inflammatory arthritis. Historically associated with rich diets and overindulgence, it’s caused by an excess of uric acid in the blood, leading to the formation of urate crystals in the joints. The hallmark of a gout attack is excruciating pain, often described as the worst pain imaginable, typically striking suddenly and severely. While it can affect various joints, it has a notorious preference for one specific area, making its mention in a
crossword clue
a significant pointer.
Then we have “digit.” In the context of the human body, a digit refers to a finger or a toe. It’s a broad term, encompassing ten fingers and ten toes, or twenty digits in total. The challenge here is to narrow down which of these numerous digits is most famously, or infamously, linked with gout. This isn’t just about knowing anatomy; it’s about connecting that anatomy to a very specific medical affliction. The precision in the phrasing of the
crossword clue
encourages us to think beyond the generic.
Finally, the most crucial constraint: “(3)”. This tells us the answer is a three-letter word. This brevity is often where the real genius of a
crossword clue
lies. When faced with a complex description like “gout-affected digit,” our minds might initially drift towards longer, more technical words. However, the three-letter limit forces us to consider fundamental, everyday vocabulary. It’s a common trick in crosswords: disguising a simple, common word with an elaborate, almost academic preamble. The most elegant solutions are often the shortest and most obvious once you see them.
Unraveling such a specific
crossword clue
requires a blend of general knowledge, a touch of medical awareness, and an appreciation for the economy of language. It’s about letting go of overthinking and trusting the simple connections. The journey to solve any challenging
crossword clue
is often as rewarding as the solution itself, prompting us to learn, to connect, and to marvel at the cleverness embedded within those little squares. It’s a testament to the power of words and the satisfying click of a mind well-exercised.
Available Answers:
TOE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Saturday, 8 November 2025