crossword
UK: /ˈkrɒswɜːd/ | US: /ˈkrɔːswɜːrd/
n. a word puzzle in which interlocking words are filled into a grid based on given clues
The term "crossword" emerged in the early 20th century (first recorded in 1913) to describe a puzzle where words intersect vertically and horizontally. "Cross" derives from Old English "cros," via Old Norse "kross," ultimately from Latin "crux," meaning "intersecting or opposing lines." "Word" traces back to Old English "word," related to verbal communication. The compound logically reflects the puzzle's structure—words "crossing" each other in a grid.
She completes the daily crossword during her morning coffee.
The crossword clue stumped even the most experienced solvers.
He designed a custom crossword for his friend’s birthday.
The newspaper’s weekend edition includes a challenging crossword.
Solving crosswords regularly can improve vocabulary and memory.