Cryptic Mini #5: Coastal Spiral
10 clues, fully checked intersections, and zero filler. Can you solve it in under 3 minutes?
Cryptic Mini #5: Coastal Spiral
Tip: Press Space or click cell to toggle Across / Down.
Across
Down
Editorial Wordplay Breakdown (Cryptic Mini #5: Coastal Spiral)
Examine the clue mechanics, indicator triggers, and equations for all 10 clues.
Across Clues (5)
"Run wild" is an anagram indicator converting HORSE into SHORE ("coastline").
"Found in" extracts H-E-L-I-X from "RacHEL IX", defining a spiral shape.
Round letter O + LIVE (exist) produces OLIVE, the fruit and emblem of peace.
Removing D from DRIVER gives RIVER ("watercourse").
To EXERT is to put forth effort or apply physical force.
Down Clues (5)
A SHORE is a coastal boundary, and to SHORE up is to support.
Hidden inside the phrase is HELIX, the classic DNA spiral geometry.
An OLIVE is a Mediterranean tree/fruit, and an olive branch represents peace.
A RIVER has geographical banks, defining a natural watercourse.
To EXERT is to apply pressure or wield authority/force.
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