what the nose knows crossword

2 min read 22-12-2024

What the Nose Knows: Decoding Crossword Clues About Smell

The sense of smell, or olfaction, is a surprisingly rich source of crossword clues. Whether you're a seasoned cruciverbalist or just starting out, understanding how clues relate to scents can significantly improve your game. This article will explore various ways crossword constructors weave olfactory references into their puzzles.

Common Clue Types for Smell in Crosswords

Crossword clues about smell rarely use the word "smell" directly. Instead, they rely on evocative language and associations. Here are some common approaches:

Specific Scents: These clues directly name a scent, like "Aroma of pine trees" (PINESCENTS) or "Fragrance of roses" (ROSESCENT). These are usually straightforward.
Sources of Scents: The clue might describe something known for its distinctive odor. For example, "Baking ingredient with a pungent smell" could lead to ONION or GARLIC, depending on the length. "Something that smells like burnt toast" might be FIRE.
Sensory Descriptions: Clues often use descriptive adjectives to evoke a smell. "Musky scent" might clue MUSK, while "Sharp, pungent odor" could point to VINEGAR or AMMONIA.
Figurative Language: Crossword clues often employ metaphors or similes. "Like the smell of old books" could clue MUSTY. "Aromatic spice" might be CINNAMON or NUTMEG.
Associations: Sometimes, a scent is linked to a particular place or object. "Smell of a freshly cut lawn" (GRASS) or "Scent of a brewery" (HOPS) are good examples.

Types of Smells Frequently Featured in Crosswords

Certain smells appear more frequently in crossword puzzles due to their commonality and evocative nature. These include:

Floral Scents: Rose, lavender, jasmine, lily
Spicy Scents: Cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, pepper
Fruity Scents: Lemon, orange, apple, banana
Earthy Scents: Musk, petrichor (smell of rain on dry earth), soil
Other Common Scents: Coffee, chocolate, smoke, mint

Advanced Clue Techniques: Wordplay & Misdirection

More challenging clues might incorporate wordplay or misdirection to make the answer less obvious. For example:

Anagrams: A clue might describe a scent and then rearrange the letters to form the answer.
Hidden Words: The answer might be hidden within the clue itself.
Puns: The clue might play on a word related to the scent.

Practice Makes Perfect: Strategies for Solving Smell-Related Clues

Activate Your Sense of Smell: If a clue describes a scent, try to actually imagine that smell. This can help trigger associations.
Consider the Context: Pay close attention to the surrounding clues and answers. This can help you narrow down the possibilities.
Look for Synonyms and Related Words: If you don't know the direct answer, think of words associated with the clue's description.
Use a Crossword Solver (Sparingly): If you're truly stuck, a solver can help you find the answer, but try to solve it yourself first!

Conclusion: Sharpen Your Olfactory Crossword Skills

Mastering smell-related clues adds another dimension to crossword solving. By understanding the common techniques and practicing regularly, you'll become better equipped to tackle even the most challenging olfactory puzzles. So, the next time you encounter a clue hinting at a particular aroma, take a deep breath and let your nose guide you to the answer!