“Walks like a hippo.” Immediately, a vivid image springs to mind, doesn’t it? That weighty, deliberate, almost ponderous gait. It’s the kind of descriptive
crossword clue
that truly paints a picture, challenging solvers to think beyond simple synonyms and delve into the nuances of movement. This isn’t just any common
crossword clue
; it’s one that relies heavily on observational detail, often demanding a specific kind of knowledge from the solver.
When a
crossword clue
like this pops up, the mind instantly visualizes a massive, lumbering form. Hippos, with their enormous bulk and relatively short legs, move with a distinctive, often surprising agility in water, but on land, their progression is undeniably slow and heavy-footed. The challenge for the daily
crossword clue
enthusiast then becomes: what
other
creature, or perhaps even a person described by an idiom, embodies this specific type of movement? It forces a mental cataloging of animals and their characteristic gaits, sifting through possibilities until the perfect fit emerges.
The brilliance of a
crossword clue
rooted in such vivid imagery lies in its ability to be both evocative and precise. It isn’t asking for an abstract concept but rather a very tangible, recognizable entity. The answer isn’t typically a synonym for “heavy” or “slow” but rather the
name
of a creature whose primary characteristic walk is reminiscent of a hippo’s. It demands a specific understanding of animal traits, perhaps even folklore or common perception, rather than just a dictionary definition. It’s a beautifully crafted
crossword clue
because it’s both guiding with imagery while requiring a very particular piece of information.
Think about the creature this particular
crossword clue
refers to. It’s an animal that is often portrayed as being rather slow and cumbersome, especially when compared to more graceful or swift counterparts. Its movement on land is characterized by a notable slowness and a certain deliberate, heavy-footedness. You might imagine it plodding along, each step a significant effort, contributing to a truly distinctive waddle. It’s a creature whose name itself has become synonymous with this particular style of movement in popular culture, often used metaphorically to describe someone who moves with a lack of grace or speed. This
crossword clue
relies on that shared understanding, that cultural touchstone, to lead you to the solution.
The most satisfying
crossword clue
is often one that initially seems baffling but then, with a flash of insight, reveals itself to be perfectly straightforward. This type of descriptive
crossword clue
fits that mold perfectly. It’s a test of both your vocabulary and your general knowledge, specifically your understanding of the animal kingdom and how its inhabitants are commonly described. A well-placed
crossword clue
like this one can truly make or break your solve, offering a moment of delightful recognition once the penny drops. It’s a prime example of how clever wordplay and descriptive power combine in the world of puzzles.
Available Answers:
PLODS.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Washington Post Crossword -Friday’s Daily By Wayne Bergman / Ed. Patti Varol