Every crossword enthusiast knows the unique thrill that accompanies a truly perplexing clue. It’s that moment when the puzzle box seems to slam shut, only for a tiny crack of light to appear, promising the “aha!” moment just beyond reach. Today, we’re diving into one such gem, a
crossword clue
that perfectly encapsulates the blend of general knowledge, wordplay, and lateral thinking that makes the pastime so utterly addictive.
The
crossword clue
in question reads: “Topping device that gives courage to cricketer (6-6).”
At first glance, it’s a delightful jumble of concepts. A “topping device”? What could that possibly refer to? Is it literal, something placed on top of something else? Or is it figurative, implying something that excels or completes? This ambiguity is precisely what makes a good
crossword clue
so engaging. Your brain immediately starts sifting through possibilities, trying to pin down the primary definition.
Then, we encounter “gives courage.” This phrase immediately evokes notions of bravery, spirit, or resolve. How does a device, especially a “topping device,” relate to courage? Is there a metaphorical connection, or is this a clever play on words, perhaps a lesser-known idiom or an unexpected synonym? The genius of a cryptic
crossword clue
often lies in its ability to force you to consider the multiple facets of common language. It pushes you to think beyond the obvious, to explore homophones, double meanings, and clever puns that might bridge seemingly unrelated concepts.
And finally, the kicker: “to cricketer.” This specific mention grounds the clue in a particular domain. It tells us that the answer, or at least a significant part of it, must relate directly to the world of cricket. This isn’t just any sport; it’s a game steeped in tradition, unique terminology, and specific equipment. So, we’re looking for something that is a “topping device,” provides “courage,”
and
is linked to a cricketer. The Venn diagram of these three elements suddenly seems incredibly narrow, yet the potential solutions feel vast and elusive.
The (6-6) structure is another vital piece of the puzzle. It tells us we’re looking for a two-word answer, each word consisting of six letters. This numerical constraint is often the key that unlocks a particularly stubborn
crossword clue
, narrowing down the infinite possibilities to a manageable few. It’s a silent guide, confirming whether your nascent ideas fit the required format.
This particular
crossword clue
is a masterclass in misdirection and elegant wordplay. It demands that you consider not just the literal meanings of the words, but also their idiomatic uses, their phonetic similarities, and their contextual relevance. It’s the kind of
crossword clue
that can stump you for a while, leading you down rabbit holes of unrelated cricket gear or abstract notions of bravery. But when the light finally dawns, and the disparate elements click into place, the satisfaction is immense. It’s a testament to the cleverness of the clue setter and the richness of the English language.
So, if you’ve been wrestling with your daily
crossword clue
and this one has been particularly challenging, take a moment to appreciate its intricate layers. Think about how a physical object or concept related to cricket could also embody both a “topping device” and the idea of “giving courage.” The solution, when it comes, is truly one of those moments that makes solving crosswords so rewarding.
Available Answers:
BOTTLEOPENER.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Cryptic Crossword Clues Tuesday, 15 July 2025