clue

[ kloo ]

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 ( defs 2, 3, 4, 6 ).

verb (used with object)

, clued, clu·ing.

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 ( def 7 ).

verb phrase

1. 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

/ kluː /

noun

1. something that helps to solve a problem or unravel a mystery
2. not to have a clue
   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

Word History and Origins

Origin of clue¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; variant spelling of clew

Word History and Origins

Origin of clue¹

C15: variant of clew

Example Sentences

A new report by the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime, for which I acted as a researcher, explores this new underworld, which may give us a clue for where the worldwide drug scene is headed next.

From Salon

MCR’s fans might have instead taken as a clue the band’s Oct.

From Los Angeles Times

Trump’s first appointment - Florida political consultant Susie Wiles as White House chief of staff - does offer one clue that a well-built Florida conservative political operation could be ready to replicate its success in the White House.

From BBC

His sneakers are the first clue — worn, white Nike trainers smudged with dirt.

From Los Angeles Times

It’s uncharacteristically warm out this morning and his sweat-speckled forehead offers the second clue.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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