Crossword Chaos: Wrangling With Wordplay
Welcome, crossword aficionados, to another deep dive into the delightful (and sometimes devilish) world of cryptic clues! Today, we’re tackling a seven-letter puzzle that has been making the rounds, leaving solvers scratching their heads and muttering about hidden meanings. Get ready to explore the intricacies of this particular clue, and hopefully, emerge victorious on the other side.
This clue, on the surface, appears relatively straightforward. We’re looking for a seven-letter word, that much is clear. However, the key to unlocking this puzzle lies in deconstructing the phrase and identifying the clever wordplay at its heart.
Let’s break it down:
“Leaves smoked…”
Immediately, our minds might jump to the literal: what kind of leaves are commonly associated with smoking? Tobacco, certainly, springs to mind. But is that the entirety of the clue? Probably not. Remember, cryptic clues rarely take the direct route. We need to consider metaphorical interpretations and alternative meanings of “leaves.” Think about what else leaves might represent – departures, absences, or even the pages of a book. Each word holds potential secrets, waiting to be unraveled.
“…to endlessly support…”
This is where the cryptic nature of the clue really shines. “Endlessly” suggests repetition or a recurring element. Could it be a word or phrase that repeats itself within the solution? Or perhaps an action that continues without pause? The word “support” further complicates the matter. It could refer to physical support, financial backing, or even emotional encouragement. We need to consider all these possibilities as we piece together the puzzle. What continuously reinforces something else?
“…company”
This final word anchors the clue, giving us a crucial point of reference. “Company” could refer to a business organization, a group of individuals, or even simply the act of being in someone’s presence. The context of the clue suggests we’re likely dealing with a business entity, but it’s wise to keep other interpretations in the back of our minds.
Putting it all together, we need to find a seven-letter word that embodies leaves in some form (whether literal or figurative), endlessly supports something, and relates to a company. This is where the real mental gymnastics begin.
Consider these questions as you ponder the clue:
What words are synonyms for “leaves” in a less literal sense?
What actions provide continuous support?
What items or concepts are closely associated with companies and support?
Are there any common idioms or phrases that incorporate these elements?
Remember to approach the clue from multiple angles. Don’t be afraid to think outside the box and explore unconventional interpretations. Look for hidden puns, anagrams, or double meanings within the wording. The solution is likely lurking just beneath the surface, waiting to be discovered.
Happy puzzling! Let the wordplay adventures begin!
Available Answers:
TOBACCO.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 10 August 2025
Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 28 July 2025