cryptic definition

plural cryptic definitions

1. crosswordingA cryptic crossword clue with no wordplay element.

   Cryptic definitions are the clues you see with question marks in American puzzles, denoting Burns and Allen-style puns.

   2013 May 1, T. Campbell, On Crosswords: Thoughts, Studies, Facts and Snark About a 100-Year-Old Pastime, Morgan James Publishing, →ISBN, page 150

   2 more examples

   Cryptic definition clues lack the structure, logic and format of the other types of clue, but they can be aesthetically pleasing and are a type of clue particularly enjoyed by many solvers.

   2014, Henry Howarth, Learn How to Solve Cryptic Crosswords: A Course for Beginners, Lulu.com, →ISBN, page 89

   Spotting a cryptic definition clue can be difficult, but there are commonly one or two, sometimes more, in a typical Telegraph Crossword.

   2020 August 20, Telegraph Media Group Ltd, The Telegraph: How To Solve a Cryptic Crossword: Mastering cryptic crosswords made easy, Hachette UK, →ISBN, page 12