Decoding Daring Decolletage: A Nine-Letter Puzzle in Crosswords
Ah, the crossword. A daily mental workout, a lexical labyrinth, a test of wit and wordplay. And sometimes, just sometimes, a clue appears that’s both evocative and deceptively simple. Today, we’re diving headfirst into one such enigma: “Revealing neckline (9).”
Nine letters. That’s the first hurdle. Not too short, not overwhelmingly long. Enough space to consider a range of possibilities, yet constrained enough to start narrowing the field. We’re looking for a word that describes a neckline, specifically one that leaves little to the imagination.
Think of the fashion world, the art of design, the cultural connotations of various styles. Necklines can be demure, sophisticated, or, as our clue indicates, rather audacious. What words spring to mind when you consider a “revealing” garment? Consider the intent behind the choice of that particular word – “revealing.” It suggests exposure, a glimpse of something usually concealed.
Now, let’s break down the anatomy of a neckline. Is it about shape? Depth? The amount of skin displayed? Consider the context of a crossword puzzle. The answer needs to be a recognized, commonly used term, not some obscure fashion industry jargon.
We also need to consider the interplay of letters. Do you have any crossing words already in your crossword grid? Utilize those constraints. If you have a “_ A _ _ L _ _ _ E” staring back at you, that significantly reduces your options. Use those anchors to guide your brainstorming.
Consider synonyms for “revealing.” Think of words that suggest openness, exposure, or even a slightly provocative nature. But be wary of words that are
too
suggestive. Crossword clues, especially those in reputable publications, rarely venture into overtly salacious territory.
The key is to strike a balance between the descriptive aspect of the neckline and the overall tone of the clue. It needs to be a word that someone might realistically use in a conversation or an article about fashion. Think beyond the literal definition of “revealing” and consider the implied effect. What does a revealing neckline
do
? What impression does it create?
Don’t discount less obvious angles. Could it be a descriptive term related to a historical fashion trend? Or perhaps a more abstract concept that connects to the idea of unveiling or exposing? Brainstorm a wide array of options, even if they seem unlikely at first. Write them down, play with their letters, and see if any resonate with the existing grid.
Remember the cardinal rules of crossword solving: be patient, be persistent, and be open to unexpected connections. A seemingly impossible clue can unravel with a fresh perspective or a moment of inspiration. Embrace the challenge and enjoy the satisfaction of cracking the code. A revealing neckline… what could it be? The answer awaits, hidden within the intricate web of the crossword grid. Good luck, and happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
DECOLLETE.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Saturday, 26 July 2025