The beauty of a well-crafted
crossword clue
often lies in its ability to paint a vivid picture while simultaneously demanding a very specific, often counter-intuitive, answer. And few demonstrate this better than ‘Old instrument surviving after shaky start (7)‘. This particular
crossword clue
is a masterclass in misdirection and precise definition, presenting a delightful challenge for even seasoned solvers.
Let’s break down the elements of this intriguing
crossword puzzle hint
. First, ‘Old instrument.’ This immediately guides our thoughts towards the realm of music. We might conjure images of ancient lyres, grand harpsichords, or perhaps rustic lutes. The term ‘instrument’ itself, however, can be broader, encompassing tools, scientific devices, or even governmental apparatus. The setter’s art here is to make us consider the obvious before gently nudging us toward a more specific interpretation that fits the wider context of the clue. This initial misdirection is a common feature of excellent
crossword clues
.
Then comes ‘shaky start.’ This phrase is a rich source of potential ambiguity, typical of advanced
crossword clues
. Does ‘shaky’ refer to a literal physical instability, perhaps a tremor or vibration integral to its early design or operation? Or, more likely, is it a metaphorical ‘shaky beginning’ – a period of uncertainty, developmental challenges, or initial public resistance to its adoption? The most compelling
crossword puzzle solutions
often hinge on correctly discerning the figurative from the literal. Understanding this nuance is key when solving crosswords.
The word ‘surviving’ ties these threads together with remarkable elegance. It’s not merely an old instrument that
had
a shaky start; it’s one that
persevered
. This implies a triumph over adversity, a continued existence or relevance despite its initial difficulties. What kind of instrument, be it musical or otherwise, could have faced such initial hurdles, only to emerge as an enduring, perhaps even iconic, example of its kind? The resilience embedded in ‘surviving’ is key to unlocking this seven-letter
crossword clue
. This element adds a layer of narrative depth, inviting us to consider the history behind the object.
When tackling such a
crossword clue
, it’s essential to consider how ‘old,’ ‘instrument,’ ‘shaky start,’ and ‘surviving’ all coalesce into a single, cohesive entity. It’s not just an instrument that began with some instability; it’s an artifact whose early struggles are almost part of its legend, an intrinsic aspect of its identity. The number (7) is, of course, our final, vital constraint, guiding us to the precise word that encapsulates this fascinating journey from uncertainty to enduring presence. This type of
crossword puzzle challenge
truly tests one’s vocabulary and ability to think laterally, pushing beyond the surface meaning of each word in the clue.
For those grappling with this specific
crossword puzzle hint
, ponder instruments that required significant refinement, faced skepticism, or whose early versions were notably less stable than their perfected forms. The answer is a beautiful blend of historical fact and clever wordplay, a testament to the depth often hidden within a seemingly simple
crossword clue
. Enjoy the moment of insight when the perfect word reveals itself, linking all these descriptive elements into one satisfying whole, solidifying your triumph over this clever
crossword puzzle
.
Available Answers:
SEXTANT.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Saturday, 25 October 2025