Unlocking the Mystery: "Glass with Thick Rimmed Glasses" Crossword Clue
The seemingly simple crossword clue, "Glass with thick rimmed glasses," presents a delightful challenge. It's a clever double entendre, playing on the dual meanings of "glass" and "glasses." This article delves into the intricacies of this clue, exploring its possible solutions, the wordplay involved, and the broader context of crossword puzzles and their construction. We'll also examine similar clues and techniques used by crossword constructors to create engaging and intellectually stimulating puzzles.
Deconstructing the Clue:
The key to solving this clue lies in recognizing the ambiguity inherent in the words "glass" and "glasses."
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Glass (noun): This refers to a drinking vessel, typically made of glass. Think of a tumbler, a wine glass, a pint glass – all made from glass material.
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Glasses (noun): This refers to spectacles, eyewear used to correct vision. They typically have rims, which can be thick or thin depending on the style and prescription.
The clue cleverly combines these two meanings. It's not referring to a glass made of thick-rimmed glasses (which would be absurd!), but rather to a type of glass that is visually characterized by having thick rims, much like a pair of glasses with thick rims.
The Solution: TUMBLER
The most likely and fitting answer to the crossword clue "Glass with thick rimmed glasses" is TUMBLER. A tumbler is a type of drinking glass, often characterized by its sturdy construction and thick rim. The thick rim is analogous to the thick rims of eyeglasses, hence the clever wordplay. Other possibilities might exist depending on the crossword's specific difficulty and word count, but tumbler is the most probable and satisfying solution.
Crossword Construction Techniques:
This clue exemplifies several sophisticated techniques employed by crossword constructors:
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Double Meaning: Using words with multiple meanings is a common strategy to create more challenging and rewarding clues. This adds layers of complexity and requires solvers to think laterally.
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Figurative Language: The clue uses an analogy – the thick rim of the glass is compared to the thick rim of glasses. This figurative language adds a touch of elegance and wit.
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Misdirection: The clue initially leads the solver down a path of thinking about glasses made of other glasses, which is impossible. This misdirection adds to the challenge and the sense of satisfaction upon solving.
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Wordplay: The clue's strength lies in its clever wordplay, relying on the solver's understanding of both the literal and figurative meanings of the words involved.
Similar Clues and Examples:
Many crossword clues employ similar techniques of wordplay and double meaning. Consider these examples:
- "Bird in a cage" – might be "OWL" (a type of bird) but also "CANARY" (a bird often kept in a cage)
- "Cold drink with a bite" – could be "GIN AND TONIC" (cold drink, with the bitter taste of tonic acting as a "bite")
- "Part of a plant that's light" – could be "LEAF" (part of a plant), and is generally thought to be light (as opposed to heavy)
These clues, like the "Glass with thick rimmed glasses" clue, require the solver to think creatively and interpret the clue's wording beyond a purely literal understanding.
The Importance of Context:
The surrounding words in the crossword puzzle also play a crucial role. The length of the answer (number of letters), intersecting words, and the overall theme of the puzzle can all provide valuable clues and context. For example, if the intersecting words suggest a kitchen or bar theme, then "TUMBLER" becomes even more plausible.
Beyond the Clue: The World of Crossword Puzzles:
Crossword puzzles are more than just games; they are a form of intellectual exercise that stimulates cognitive function. They enhance vocabulary, improve problem-solving skills, and provide a sense of accomplishment upon completion. The construction of a crossword puzzle is a meticulous process, requiring creativity, skill, and an understanding of language and wordplay. The cleverness of a clue, like the "Glass with thick rimmed glasses" clue, is a testament to the artistry and ingenuity involved in crossword construction.
Conclusion:
The seemingly simple crossword clue, "Glass with thick rimmed glasses," is a perfect example of a well-crafted puzzle clue. Its use of double meaning, figurative language, and misdirection makes it challenging yet rewarding to solve. The solution, "TUMBLER," fits perfectly, highlighting the clever wordplay involved. By understanding the techniques used in this clue, we can appreciate the skill and artistry that go into creating engaging and intellectually stimulating crossword puzzles. The world of crosswords offers endless opportunities to exercise our minds and enjoy the satisfaction of solving clever word puzzles.