Some crossword clues hit you like a bolt of lightning, the answer instantly springing to mind. Others, however, are designed to make you pause, to truly dig deep into your mental dictionary and perhaps even the etymological history of words. These are the ones that separate the casual solver from the true enthusiast, the ones that deliver that profound “AHA!” moment when the grid finally yields its secret. Today, we’re diving into a prime example of such a challenging and utterly brilliant piece of wordplay: “Millipede’s multitude.”
This particular crossword clue immediately conjures images of endless legs, of a creature that seems to embody the very essence of
many
. But like all the best crossword clues, its apparent simplicity hides layers of cleverness. To unravel it, we must first break down its components, starting with the star of the show: the millipede.
The word “millipede” itself is derived from Latin, specifically “mille” (thousand) and “pes” (foot). So, literally, a “thousand-footed” creature. This etymology is a crucial piece of the puzzle when tackling this crossword clue. While no known millipede actually possesses a thousand legs (the record holder,
Eumillipes persephone
, boasts over 1,300, shattering the name’s traditional implication!), the name has cemented this idea of an overwhelming number of appendages in the popular imagination. This common perception, rather than strict biological accuracy, is often what a cunning crossword clue leans on. When considering this specific crossword clue, ponder how the
name
itself contributes to the idea of “multitude.” Is the clue hinting at the literal number, or the concept of that number?
Then we have “multitude.” This word speaks of a vast, often undefined, quantity. It implies a crowd, a throng, a great many of something. When paired with “millipede,” the mind naturally jumps to those famous legs. But is it
just
about the legs? A masterful crossword clue often has a touch of misdirection. Could “multitude” refer to something else associated with a millipede, perhaps its segments, its species, or even the sheer
number
implied by its name? This is where the beauty of a truly well-crafted crossword clue shines – it forces you to think beyond the obvious, to consider synonyms, homonyms, and lateral connections.
Solving this specific crossword clue requires a blend of etymological knowledge, an understanding of common idioms, and a knack for discerning precisely what aspect of the subject the clue is highlighting. Is it a direct synonym for “many legs”? Is it a play on the “thousand” in “millipede”? Or is it a more abstract term that captures the essence of a countless number, often linked to the creature in question? The best approach to such a rich crossword clue is to list out all the associations you have with “millipede” – its appearance, its name, its movement, its characteristics. Then, brainstorm words that mean “multitude” or “many.” Look for overlaps, for clever twists that only a skilled setter could devise.
Ultimately, the satisfaction of solving this crossword clue isn’t just about filling in the blanks. It’s about appreciating the artistry involved in creating a puzzle that so elegantly combines biological imagery with linguistic cleverness. It’s a testament to the power of words and the joy of a good mental workout. Unraveling such a sophisticated crossword clue is a victory in itself.
Available Answers:
LEGS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Sunday’s Daily By Kaye Brown / Ed. Patti Varol