Staring down a three-letter space for “Hole in a needle” in your daily crossword? You’re far from alone in finding this particular crossword clue to be a deceptively formidable foe. Short
crossword clues
often pack the biggest punch, demanding a specific kind of lateral thinking that can throw even the most seasoned
crossword puzzles
enthusiast for a loop. It’s the kind of
crossword clue
that seems straightforward at first glance, but then you realize the obvious answers just don’t fit, or the definition is far more precise than you initially imagined.
This isn’t your average “cat” or “dog” situation. The
crossword clue
“Hole in a needle (3)” is a fantastic example of how
crossword puzzles
delight in precision and sometimes, the slightly obscure, yet perfectly logical, terminology for everyday objects. Many will first think of the general concept of a hole, or perhaps something related to sewing itself. But the beauty, and indeed the challenge, of
solving crosswords
lies in pinpointing the exact, often singular, word the constructor is seeking. This specific
crossword clue
asks for a very particular anatomical feature of the needle, not just any opening. It’s a classic
brain teaser
that tests your vocabulary concerning the parts of common items.
When tackling such a
crossword clue
, especially from publications like the
NYT crossword
,
LA Times crossword
, or
USA Today crossword
, it’s crucial to shift your perspective. Instead of thinking broadly, narrow your focus to the precise object mentioned: a needle. What
specific
part of a needle might be referred to as a “hole” in common or technical parlance? This isn’t about the general function, but the named component. Many tricky clues in
crossword puzzles
rely on this exact mechanism – an object’s specific part, often overlooked in casual conversation, becoming the star of the
word puzzle
.
The satisfaction of deciphering a
crossword clue
like this one is immense because it forces you to think beyond the most obvious layer. It’s a moment of delightful discovery when you realize the constructor’s cleverness. This isn’t just about filling in blanks; it’s about expanding your understanding of language and the nuances of definition. For those devoted to
solving crosswords
, these types of
puzzle challenges
are what make the hobby so endlessly engaging. They turn everyday objects into linguistic puzzles, and “Hole in a needle (3)” is a prime example of this art.
So, as you ponder this three-letter
crossword clue
, remember to consider the precise terminology associated with the object in question. Don’t be afraid to think about the more technical or even slightly archaic names for parts of familiar tools. This mental exercise is fundamental to mastering complex
crossword puzzles
. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest-looking
crossword clue
can hide the most intricate linguistic trap, and breaking free from it is a testament to your growing skill in the world of
daily crossword
solving. Keep at it – the “aha!” moment is just around the corner, and it’s these moments that truly define the joy of
crossword puzzles
.![]()
Available Answers:
EYE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Tuesday, 21 October 2025