Word desk
Solve carefully without flattening the clue
A small set of language tools for crossword research, spelling and wordplay.
On this page
Useful references
Dictionary
Merriam-Webster for definitions, usage and pronunciation.
Phrase and pattern search
OneLook searches many dictionaries and supports wildcard patterns.
Word history
Online Etymology Dictionary offers concise word-origin notes; corroborate disputed origins.
Archive search
Library of Congress newspapers helps trace historical names, phrases and usage.
Clue discipline
- Match tense, number and part of speech.
- Treat abbreviations, variants and wordplay as signals.
- Use crossings to test an answer; do not force a near match.
- Check names and quotations against an authoritative source.
Sources
- Merriam-Webstermerriam-webster.com
- OneLookonelook.com
- Online Etymology Dictionaryetymonline.com
- Library of Congress newspapersloc.gov