Decoding the Crossword: “One of eight who is quarrelsome? (5)“
Welcome back to the blog, fellow crossword enthusiasts! Today, we’re tackling a particularly intriguing clue that’s been bouncing around in my head all morning: “One of eight who is quarrelsome? (5).”
At first glance, the clue seems straightforward enough. We’re looking for a five-letter word that fits into the category of “one of eight” and implies a tendency towards being argumentative or prone to disputes. However, like many well-crafted crossword clues, this one presents a layer of clever misdirection. It’s not simply asking for a synonym of “quarrelsome,” but rather requires us to think outside the box and consider the context of the “eight.”
The numerical reference is the key, and it opens up a range of possibilities. The number “eight” immediately suggests groups or entities that are traditionally comprised of eight members. Think of groups in fiction, teams, or even families. Consider whether the quarrelsome nature is inherent to the specific member, or perhaps a defining characteristic of the entire group, highlighting one specific member.
The word “one” can be interpreted as simply “a single” but perhaps there’s a twist that suggests “one” refers to the Roman numeral, and we need to add this to a figure of seven people, to make up eight.
The “who is quarrelsome?” element is also fertile ground for exploration. Is the quarrelsome trait a primary characteristic, or is it a secondary element, something that only comes out when he is challenged? What kind of quarrelsome are we talking about? Petty squabbles, or a constant state of war?
The brevity of the answer – just five letters – further focuses our investigation. We need a concise term that encapsulates both the group membership (represented by the “eight”) and the argumentative nature of the individual.
Let’s break down the potential avenues of investigation:
Mythology and Folklore:
Are there any famous octets in mythology or folklore where one member is known for their combative personality? Think about pantheons of gods, legendary heroes, or even famous literary families. Are there any recurring characters in traditional tales that fit this description?
Literature and History:
Historical figures, famous groups of explorers, or even characters from classic novels could hold the key. Consider well-known groups of people and think about if one individual is noted for their argumentative nature.
Games and Puzzles:
The solution could also be linked to a game or puzzle involving eight elements. Perhaps the solution lies in the context of a chess board, where eight pawns stand in line. Or a card game where eight suits are divided amongst players. Is there a popular game that involves a character who is argumentative?
Figurative Language:
It’s worthwhile thinking if this clue might be an example of figurative language. Does “eight” refer to the limbs of an animal? Does it refer to the number of notes in an octave? Does it describe a team, where one player is considered the “bad apple”?
As always, remember to check the surrounding clues and their answers. The intersecting letters might provide valuable hints and narrow down the possibilities.
Solving crosswords is a game of lateral thinking and association. Don’t be afraid to explore unconventional connections and challenge your assumptions. Sometimes the most obvious answer is the correct one, but more often than not, the solution lies in a clever wordplay or a subtle reference.
So, grab your pencils, sharpen your minds, and dive into the challenge! I’m eager to hear your thoughts and theories on this intriguing clue. Feel free to share your reasoning in the comments below. Happy puzzling! And check back soon for updates!
Available Answers:
ROWER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Monday, 25 August 2025