first ever crossword puzzle clue – All Crossword Answers

More About "first ever crossword puzzle clue"

The "first ever crossword puzzle clue" refers to a pivotal moment in puzzle history. On December 21, 1913, Arthur Wynne, a journalist from Liverpool, England, published what he called a "Word-Cross Puzzle" in the holiday issue of the New York World newspaper. This innovative puzzle, a diamond-shaped grid without internal black squares, featured a series of numbered clues that, when solved, would fit into the corresponding numbered spaces.

Among those pioneering clues was "What is the result of a kiss?", a straightforward query that yielded the iconic four-letter answer: KISS. This simple clue and its equally simple answer laid the foundation for a global phenomenon. While Wynne's initial design differed slightly from modern crosswords, his creation quickly gained popularity, leading to refinements and the widespread adoption of the puzzle format we recognize and love today. It's a testament to the enduring appeal of wordplay and logical deduction that a humble clue about a kiss sparked a worldwide obsession.

Tips For Your Next Puzzle

• Recall Historical Context: For clues related to "first ever" or historical events, consider looking up the origin or key figures associated with the topic. Often, the answer is a significant word or name from that historical moment.
• Think Outside the Box: Sometimes, clues like this aren't looking for a common synonym but rather a specific, perhaps unique, historical fact. Don't be afraid to research the subject directly if the answer isn't immediately obvious.
• Cross-Reference Clues: Even if a clue seems straightforward, always check how the potential answer interacts with crossing words. The letters from other solved clues can confirm or deny your suspicion, especially with historical or unique answers.

For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.