Crinkles and Clues: Unraveling ‘Wrinkled (of clothes) (7)‘
Greetings, puzzle enthusiasts! Today, we delve into a crossword clue that’s likely graced the grids of publications far and wide: “Wrinkled (of clothes) (7)“. This deceptively simple clue presents a surprisingly interesting challenge. It asks us to think beyond the obvious association of crumpled fabric and tap into the nuances of language and common synonyms.
At its heart, this clue is about condition. What state is the clothing in? The parenthetical (of clothes) serves as a crucial qualifier. It directs our focus away from general states of disrepair or being generally unattractive, and firmly towards the aesthetic condition of textiles. Without it, “Wrinkled (7)” could lead us down a path of personality traits or even descriptions of fruit!
The number (7) following the clue indicates the length of the word we’re searching for. This is a lifeline in the vast ocean of vocabulary. It allows us to immediately discard words that don’t fit the numerical constraint. We know we’re looking for a seven-letter word synonymous with “wrinkled,” and specifically applicable to the texture and appearance of clothes.
Think about the words you use to describe clothes that need ironing. Do you say they are simply “un-smooth”? Do you use descriptive phrases like “full of creases”? While accurate, these don’t fit the seven-letter criteria. Crossword clues often favor single-word answers, especially in succinct clues like this one.
Consider the common causes of wrinkles in clothing. Clothes left too long in the washing machine, garments stuffed haphazardly into a suitcase, or articles of clothing simply aged and worn – all contribute to a wrinkled appearance. What adjective perfectly captures this state across these varied scenarios?
Synonyms are our best friends when tackling clues like these. A thesaurus can be an invaluable tool. However, it’s important to consider the context provided by the “of clothes” qualifier. Some words that might be synonymous with “wrinkled” in a general sense may not be appropriate when specifically applied to fabric.
Beyond pure synonym searching, think about the feeling the word evokes. Does it suggest neglect? Is it more about a natural, lived-in appearance? The perfect answer will likely carry a subtle connotation that resonates with the idea of clothing that has lost its pristine, freshly-ironed state.
Remember, crossword solving is often a process of elimination. If you’ve already filled in some intersecting letters in the grid, use them to your advantage. Even a single letter can significantly narrow down the possibilities.
Consider the various fabrics and materials that make up clothing. Some fabrics, like linen, are naturally prone to wrinkling. Others, like silk, can show wrinkles prominently. Is there a word that is commonly associated with these types of fabrics when they are in a less-than-perfect state?
This clue challenges us to think critically about the English language, specifically the descriptive power of adjectives and their applicability within specific contexts. It demands both breadth of vocabulary and precision of application.
So, put on your thinking caps, dust off your mental thesaurus, and let’s unravel this wrinkle in the grid. What seven-letter word perfectly encapsulates the state of wrinkled clothing? Happy puzzling!
Available Answers:
CREASED.
Last seen on the crossword puzzle: Metro Quick Crossword Clues Monday, 1 September 2025