clue
UK: kluː | US: kluː
n. a piece of evidence or information used in solving a problem or mystery
n. something that guides or directs in the solution of a problem
n. (archaic) a ball of thread or yarn
The word "clue" originated from the Old English "cleowen" or "cliewen," meaning a ball of thread or yarn. This evolved into Middle English "clewe." The modern meaning derives from the Greek myth of Theseus, who used a ball of thread (a "clew") to navigate the Labyrinth and escape after slaying the Minotaur. Over time, "clew" (later spelled "clue") metaphorically shifted from a literal guiding thread to a figurative guide for solving puzzles or mysteries.
The detective found a crucial clue at the crime scene.
Her diary provided a clue to her mysterious disappearance.
The crossword puzzle clue was too vague for me to solve.
He left no clues about his whereabouts.
In the story, the golden thread served as Ariadne's clue to escape the maze.