C
CrypticCrosswordcrypticpuzzle.com
#52026-10-22·Reversal

Cryptic Clue #5

Use the 4 progressive hint tiers below or solve cleanly with 0 hints!

#5
Difficulty:

Returned reward for drinking vessel(3)

Setter: Acrostic Ace

Type using your keyboard or the on-screen keys below.
Hints:
Post-Solve Analysis

Setter's Editorial Walkthrough

Setter: Acrostic Ace

1. Tripartite Structural Breakdown

Straight Definition (Final Word)drinking vesselDictionary synonym of target solution
Wordplay Indicator (Reversal)ReturnedInstructs the operation
Fodder & EnumerationGUM (3)Yields exactly 3 letters

2. Wordplay Equation

Reversal of GUM = MUG

3. Mechanics & Setter Deception

"Returned" dictates that the preceding word GUM must be reversed backwards, giving MUG ("drinking vessel").

Master this mechanism: Read the complete Reversal Guide →

Check related indicators: Browse Indicator Lexicon →

Clue #5 Questions & Answers

Q1.What is the straight definition in Clue #5?▼

The straight definition is "drinking vessel", placed at the very end of the clue under the Extreme Placement Rule.

Q2.How does the wordplay in Clue #5 work?▼

This is a classic Reversal clue. The equation is: Reversal of GUM = MUG. "Returned" dictates that the preceding word GUM must be reversed backwards, giving MUG ("drinking vessel").

Q3.What is the significance of the enumeration (3)?▼

The enumeration (3) signifies that the target solution consists of exactly 3 letters.

More Reversal Clues to Practice

View All →
Clue #24Level 1/4

"Returned wolf creates stream" (4)

Clue #32Level 1/4

"Returned desserts cause emotional strain" (8)