Crossword
Online Crossword Puzzles
Crossword puzzles are word games where you fill in answers to clues in a grid of horizontal (across) and vertical (down) spaces. The goal is to complete the grid with words or phrases that fit the clues and intersect correctly.
Everyday there is a new puzzle for you to attempt to complete. Some days will be themed and other days there will be a variety of questions and answers. Play daily to improve your crossword solving skills.
A Short Crossword History
The first known crossword puzzle was created by journalist Arthur Wynne and published in the New York World on December 21, 1913. It was called a "Word-Cross Puzzle" and appeared in a diamond shape with no black squares.
Crosswords gained widespread appeal after being featured in newspapers. The New York Times initially dismissed them but eventually launched its own crossword in 1942, which became the gold standard.
FAQ
- What is a crossword puzzle? A crossword puzzle is a word game consisting of a grid of black and white squares. The objective is to fill the white squares with words based on the provided clues, with answers intersecting correctly across and down.
- How do I solve a crossword puzzle? Read the clues carefully. Start with easy or obvious answers. Use intersecting letters to guide more difficult clues. Think about synonyms, puns, and wordplay if the clue is tricky.
- What do the numbers in the grid mean? The numbers indicate the starting squares for the words corresponding to the across and down clues. For example, "1 Across" begins in the square labeled 1 and extends horizontally.
- What do question marks mean in a clue? A question mark indicates the clue involves wordplay, puns, or an unexpected interpretation. For example, "Worker with a brush?" = ARTIST (not a cleaner).
- What skills can improve my crossword solving? Expanding your vocabulary, understanding wordplay and idioms and practicing regularly to recognize common patterns.
How Solving Crosswords Improves Your Brian
Solving crosswords is more than just an enjoyable pastime- it provides numerous cognitive benefits that can improve your brain's performance.
- Enhances Vocabulary and Language Skills: Crosswords expose you to new words, phrases, and meanings, improving your language proficiency and communication skills. Regularly solving them helps reinforce spelling and grammar knowledge.
- Improves Memory: Recalling definitions, synonyms, and trivia strengthens both short-term and long-term memory. It helps with word retrieval, which is especially beneficial as you age.
- Enhances Mental Agility: Regular crossword solving keeps your brain sharp and agile. It helps maintain cognitive function, delaying the onset of age-related mental decline or diseases like Alzheimer’s.
Crosswords are an excellent mental workout that exercises your brain in multiple ways. They combine fun, learning, and cognitive health- making them a fantastic addition to your daily routine.
How to Play
Fill in the grid by answering the clues
- Understand the Grid and Clues
- The grid consists of black and white squares. Words are placed in white squares.
- Across clues correspond to horizontal rows.
- Down clues correspond to vertical columns.
- Numbers on the grid match the numbers of the clues.
- Start with Easy Clues
- Look for short or straightforward clues, such as: Definitions or synonyms, common phrases and Fill-in-the-blank clues.
- Use Letters from Intersections
- Filling in one word provides letters for intersecting words, making them easier to solve.
- Prioritize clues for words that cross multiple others.
- Work in Sections
- Focus on one area at a time to build momentum.
- Use easier answers to help solve harder ones in the same section.
- Practice and Learn New Words
- The more puzzles you solve, the more familiar you'll become with common words, phrases, and clue patterns.
Play Crossword on BrainPlay, no downloads or installation required. Everyday a new puzzle. Play now for free in your browser.
Last updated: Monday, February 3, 2025
