Crossword Clue

Crossword puzzles often challenge solvers with clues that require a mix of linguistic savvy and lateral thinking. If you’ve encountered the clue “Shrivel up with age” in a recent NYT Crossword and found yourself stuck, you’re not alone. This clue plays on the idea of aging and its effects, and the answer is both clever and evocative.

The Answer

The crossword clue “Shrivel up with age” is a hint towards the term “WILT”.

Understanding the Clue

In the context of the crossword puzzle, the word “wilt” fits the clue perfectly. Here’s why:

• Meaning of “Wilt”: To “wilt” is to lose freshness, vigor, or vitality, which often happens when plants age or are not properly cared for. The term is used to describe the way flowers and leaves shrivel and lose their strength as they dry out or age.
• Context of Aging: The verb “wilt” can be applied metaphorically to describe people or things that diminish in vitality or strength over time. Thus, when someone or something “shrivels up with age,” it effectively “wilt.”

Crossword Clue Context

In crossword puzzles, clues are often designed to be succinct yet challenging. “Shrivel up with age” uses a metaphor to evoke the process of aging and its effects, and “wilt” is a concise and fitting answer that encapsulates this concept. Crossword clues frequently use such figurative language to test solvers’ ability to think beyond literal meanings.

Similar Crossword Clues

If you’re interested in exploring similar crossword clues or looking for related answers, here are a few that play with similar themes:

• Clue: “Become less effective over time” – “Deteriorate”
• Clue: “Decline or fade away” – “Wane”
• Clue: “Lose freshness” – “Wither”

The NYT Crossword Experience

The New York Times Crossword is known for its variety and depth, offering clues that range from straightforward to complex. Solvers often encounter clues that require a nuanced understanding of language, idioms, and metaphorical expressions. The NYT Crossword challenges solvers to think critically and creatively, making it a rewarding activity for those who enjoy wordplay and problem-solving.

Final Thoughts

Encountering the clue “Shrivel up with age” and discovering that the answer is “wilt” highlights the clever and sometimes poetic nature of crossword puzzles. It’s a reminder of how language can be both literal and metaphorical, and how puzzles can encapsulate these nuances in a single, succinct answer. Keep honing your crossword skills, and don’t be afraid to embrace the figurative language that makes solving these puzzles both challenging and enjoyable. Happy puzzling!