Crossword Corner: Tangling with a Tricky Seven-Letter Clue
Right then, puzzle pals! Today, we’re diving headfirst into a seven-letter enigma that had me scratching my head for a good while. The clue reads: “Mongoose finds old RAF member in the flesh (7)“. Now, as any seasoned crossword solver knows, clues that involve animals and acronyms are often cleverly constructed, requiring a bit of lateral thinking. This one is no exception.
My initial thought process, naturally, revolved around the mongoose. What is this animal known for? Primarily, its reputation precedes it as a snake-slayer, a fearless fighter against venomous threats. However, simply throwing snake-related words into the mix didn’t get me very far. That’s the beauty of a good crossword – it forces you to abandon the obvious and delve into the less apparent.
Next, my focus shifted to the “old RAF member.” This is where the acronym recognition kicks in. RAF, the Royal Air Force, immediately springs to mind. The clue specifies an
old
member, implying perhaps a historical rank, a veteran, or even something archaic connected to the air force’s history. Could it be a reference to a specific type of aircraft used in the past? Or perhaps a role or position within the RAF that is no longer in common usage?
The phrase “in the flesh” further complicates matters. It suggests a literal interpretation, something tangible, something living. This hints at the answer being a person, but the connection to the mongoose and the RAF member remains elusive. Is the mongoose literally finding this person? Or is the phrase used more figuratively, representing a characteristic or quality possessed by both?
We must consider that crosswords are games of wordplay, and the connection between the mongoose and the RAF member may not be as straightforward as a physical interaction. It could be a pun, a homophone, or a clever juxtaposition of meanings.
Let’s try breaking down the clue into smaller components. We have:
Mongoose:
Consider its key characteristics: agility, speed, ferocity, and its penchant for hunting.
Old RAF member:
Think about historical terms, ranks, and roles associated with the Royal Air Force. Also, consider the word “old” implying something outdated or past its prime.
In the flesh:
This suggests a literal, physical presence, or a quality brought to life.
Consider the possibility of a double definition clue. Perhaps one part of the clue defines the first few letters of the answer, and the other part defines the remaining letters. This is a common tactic used by crossword compilers to add an extra layer of difficulty.
We’re looking for a seven-letter word that somehow embodies the qualities of a mongoose
and
relates to a former member of the Royal Air Force, all while conveying the idea of something “in the flesh” or very real.
The challenge is set! How will you unravel this tangled clue? Share your thoughts and theories in the comments below. Let’s put our collective crossword brains together and conquer this seven-letter beast! Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
MEERKAT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 6 July 2025