Cryptic Crossword Dictionary

A dictionary of words and phrases often encountered in cryptic crosswords - words that may mean something more, or something other, than is indicated by their surface meaning.

Many of the words and phrases in the dictionary are accompanied by sample clues to illustrate their use. (To see the solutions, simply move your cursor over the clues!)

There are three ways to use the dictionary:

1. Use the search box to look up a specific word or phrase.

2. Browse the lists of wordplay indicators.

2. Browse the dictionary. (Start by selecting an initial letter below)

Wordplay Indicators Anagram Indicators Container & Contents Indicators Hidden Word Indicators Homophone Indicators Reversal Indicators Subtraction Indicators