Unpacking a Clever Crossword Clue: “Smooth-talking person, female singer holding arm (7)“
Every now and then, a crossword clue just leaps out at you, promising a delightful challenge. It’s that exquisite blend of misdirection and precision that makes cryptic crosswords so utterly addictive. Today, we’re diving into one such gem that’s been making the rounds: “Smooth-talking person, female singer holding arm (7)“. What a beauty, right? This isn’t just any
crossword clue
; it’s a miniature puzzle box, packed with layers of meaning waiting to be peeled back.
At first glance, your mind might race through famous sopranos or charismatic speakers, trying to find a seven-letter fit. But with a cryptic crossword clue like this, the surface meaning is often just a cunning disguise. The real magic lies in deciphering the wordplay hidden within. It’s about more than just a definition; it’s about a linguistic game that rewards careful observation and a knack for lateral thinking.
Let’s consider the components of this intriguing
crossword clue
. We have “smooth-talking person,” which immediately suggests a certain quality or type of individual. Then, “female singer” introduces a distinct element – a profession, perhaps even a type of voice. But the real spark, the part that often holds the key to a cryptic solution, lies in phrases like “holding arm.” In the world of crossword clues, such phrases are rarely literal. They often serve as indicators for specific wordplay mechanisms.
Could “holding arm” imply one word containing another? Or perhaps it suggests a physical connection or a charade, where parts of words come together? This is where the true detective work of solving a
crossword clue
begins. You’re looking for a word that not only fits the definition but also brilliantly integrates the other elements through a clever play on words. The elegance of a well-crafted
crossword clue
is that every single word in it matters, either as part of the definition, an indicator of the wordplay, or even as pure misdirection.
The “7” in parentheses tells us the length of our target word, a crucial piece of information that helps narrow down the possibilities. With a seven-letter word, there are numerous permutations, but the unique combination of these elements in this specific
crossword clue
points towards a very particular solution. It requires you to think about how “smooth-talking,” “female singer,” and “holding arm” can combine to form a single, cohesive word through cryptic means.
This type of
crossword clue
exemplifies the joy of the hobby. It’s not about brute-forcing an answer; it’s about understanding the subtle signals embedded within the language. It’s about that satisfying ‘aha!’ moment when the penny drops, and you see the clever construction that links all the disparate parts of the clue together into one perfect, elegant answer. So, take a moment to ponder this particular
crossword clue
. Let its elements dance in your mind and see if you can unravel its delightful secret. The solution, when you discover it, is sure to bring a smile to your face.
Available Answers:
CHARMER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: –Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 12 October 2025
Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Tuesday, 1 July 2025