The world of crossword puzzles thrives on linguistic dexterity, presenting phrases that often lead solvers down delightfully misleading paths. When faced with a cryptic crossword clue like “Some children, children thoroughly wet (6)“, the immediate image it conjures might be one of playful chaos – perhaps a group of youngsters caught in a sudden downpour, or perhaps reveling in a splash park on a hot summer’s day. This vivid imagery is, of course, entirely by design, a clever misdirection inherent in many a challenging crossword clue.
But for those who relish the intellectual gymnastics of a good cryptic puzzle, such a crossword clue signals something far more intricate than a simple description. The beauty of these clues lies in their dual nature: a plausible, often amusing, surface reading that masks a completely different, literal interpretation when dissected by the rules of wordplay. This particular six-letter crossword clue is a superb illustration of that principle, inviting us to look beyond the obvious and delve into the cunning craftsmanship of the clue setter.
Consider the first part of the crossword clue: “Some children”. In the realm of cryptic crosswords, phrases like “some [noun]” or “part of [noun]” frequently hint at a specific subset, a particular kind of the noun in question. It urges the solver to think laterally, to explore various classifications or specific terms associated with “children”. This isn’t just about kids in general; it’s about a particular category or characteristic that could define them in a unique way for the purpose of the puzzle. Unpacking this specific element of the crossword clue requires a shift in perspective, moving from a broad concept to a more precise, often pun-laden, interpretation.
Then we come to the second half of the crossword clue: “children thoroughly wet”. This phrase functions as the straightforward definition, the literal meaning we are ultimately seeking for our six-letter answer. The challenge, of course, is to find a word that encapsulates “thoroughly wet” in a way that also aligns with the wordplay suggested by “Some children.” This is where the magic of the cryptic crossword clue truly shines. The two seemingly disparate parts must harmonise perfectly, with one providing the definition and the other offering a clever route to that definition through a specific type of wordplay.
Such a crossword clue can often be a double definition in disguise, or perhaps a charade, or even a hidden word, albeit usually structured differently. The key is to recognise that the surface story of soaked children is merely a charming narrative overlay for a more structured linguistic puzzle. Deciphering this type of crossword clue demands a good vocabulary, a familiarity with common cryptic devices, and a willingness to play with language. It’s about finding that delightful ‘aha!’ moment when the two halves of the crossword clue snap into place, revealing a word that makes perfect sense on both an immediate, definitional level and a clever, wordplay level.
Many solvers find this particular style of crossword clue immensely satisfying. It’s not just about knowing the answer; it’s about appreciating the journey the clue takes you on, the intellectual path from initial confusion to eventual clarity. For anyone honing their cryptic solving skills, dissecting a crossword clue like “Some children, children thoroughly wet (6)” offers an excellent opportunity to practice looking beyond the surface, to identify potential wordplay indicators, and to consider the multiple meanings words can hold. It reminds us that every element of a cryptic crossword clue is there for a reason, a carefully placed stepping stone or a cleverly disguised red herring, all leading to that singular, six-letter solution.
Available Answers:
DRENCH.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Sunday, 5 October 2025