A brief indication of pigmentation, often used in crossword puzzles as a clue for specific color names, can range from subtle shades like “blush” or “off-white” to descriptive terms like “sky” or “emerald.” For example, a puzzle might use “touch of blue” to indicate “teal” or “hint of red” for “rose.”
These clues provide a layer of complexity to crossword puzzles, requiring solvers to think beyond basic color terms. They challenge solvers to consider shades, hues, and associations related to color, enriching the puzzle-solving experience. This nuanced approach to color reflects a broader trend in wordplay and encourages creative thinking. The use of such clues likely evolved alongside the increasing complexity of crossword puzzles themselves, moving beyond simple definitions to require more lateral thinking.
