Like chimneys

Smoke ‘Em If You Got ‘Em: Decoding the “Like Chimneys” Clue

Ah, the classic crossword clue: “Like chimneys.” It seems simple enough, right? We all know chimneys are those vertical structures that channel smoke from fireplaces. But when you’re staring at a blank grid with just those three little words, it can feel like you’re staring into the abyss.

Don’t worry, fellow cruciverbalists! This clue is more of a smoke signal than a smokescreen. It’s not about the physical structure of a chimney, but rather its function. To crack this code, we need to think about the
action
of a chimney, not just its shape.

Let’s break it down:

“Like Chimneys”

– This suggests a similarity, a shared characteristic.

“Chimneys”

– Their key function is to
release
smoke.

So, what else releases things in a similar way? This is where we need to think outside the box (or perhaps, inside the chimney!). We’re looking for a verb or noun that implies an action of release, expulsion, or even, dare we say it, “smoking.”

This clue might be a bit of a red herring, leading you down a path of literal interpretations. But remember, crossword clues often rely on wordplay, double meanings, and a bit of lateral thinking.

Don’t let the smoke get in your eyes! With a little bit of brainstorming and a dash of creativity, you’ll be able to decipher this clue and fill that empty square. Good luck!

Available Answers:

SOOTY.

Last seen on the crossword puzzle: NY Times Crossword 4 Jul 24, Thursday