clue

American  

[kloo] / klu /

noun

1. anything that serves to guide or direct in the solution of a problem, mystery, etc..

   It is up to Aurora to piece together the clues and solve the murder before she becomes the next victim.

   Synonyms:

   key, mark, evidence, trace, hint, sign

2. a phrase or word provided as a hint to help find an answer or response in a crossword puzzle, on a game show, etc..

   The celebrity editor's name was featured as a clue on the long-running quiz show.

3. an insight into or knowledge about something.

   As a kid from the suburbs, Patrick has lived a sheltered life and doesn't have a clue how to survive on his own.

4. clew.

---

verb (used with object)

clued, cluing

1. to direct or point out by a clue.

2. to help find (an answer in a puzzle or quiz) by providing a clue.

   The four-letter “nose” was clued as “characteristic smell of wine.”

3. clew.

verb phrase

1. clue in

   1. to provide with useful or reliable information.

      Clue us in on how these forms are to be filled out.

   2. to make familiar or aware.

      Has she been clued in about the rules of this office?

clue British  

/ kluː /

noun

1. something that helps to solve a problem or unravel a mystery

2. 1. to be completely baffled

   2. to be completely ignorant or incompetent

---

verb

1. (tr; usually foll by in or up) to provide with helpful information

noun

1. a variant spelling of clew

Etymology

Origin of clue

First recorded in 1350–1400; variant spelling of clew

Example Sentences

Aunt Kitty was eager to take her up on this offer and get some clues to the murder mystery, so we called at Mrs. Drysdale’s home at six o’clock sharp.

From Literature

The fervent embrace of that word — “homeland” — should have been a clue that it was a feature, not a bug.

From Salon

Financial markets were meanwhile awaiting the release of US inflation data due Tuesday for clues on the outlook for US interest rates.

From Barron's

Which may provide a further clue to the lack of heightened passion for Iranians.

From The Wall Street Journal

Investors are now watching coming U.S. economic data and policy signals for clues on whether the rally can be sustained.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• cue
• indication
• inkling
• key
• pointer
• proof
• solution
• suggestion
• tip
• trace