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Daily Cryptic
Daily Cryptic
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      How Cryptic Clues Work

      Each clue has two parts: a definition and wordplay. Both lead to the same answer.

      🔄
      Anagram: Look for indicator words like "broken", "mixed", "confused" that signal rearranged letters
      🔍
      Hidden word: The answer is hidden inside the clue text itself
      🔁
      Double definition: Two separate meanings for the same word
      🔀
      Reversal: Words like "returned", "back", "up" signal a word spelled backwards
      🔢
      Numbers in parentheses show the word length, e.g. (5) means a 5-letter answer
      💡
      The definition is usually at the very start or end of the clue

      Daily Cryptic for Monday 18 May 2026

      The Daily Cryptic published on Monday 18 May 2026: a 9x9 cryptic crossword with 5 clues across and 7 down. Play it above at your own pace; past editions are practice and do not count towards the daily leaderboard. Every clue is listed below so you can solve on paper or check what you are up against.

      Across

      1. 1 South Australian vehicle — fry lightly (5)
      2. 4 Dry moment (3)
      3. 5 Mischievous devil, somewhat (6)
      4. 8 Example found in a position (8)
      5. 11 Pessimistic rhythm from depressed musician (8)

      Down

      1. 2 Weapons or symbols on a shield (4)
      2. 3 Spirit of German city and Church of England (7)
      3. 4 Small dram — what a bargain! (4)
      4. 6 Equal boy makes clergyman (6)
      5. 7 When rearranged, cut and shaped (4)
      6. 9 Honest fellow, article about existence (3)
      7. 10 Cold note for a reduction (3)

      About the Daily Cryptic

      The Daily Cryptic is a free cryptic crossword for Australian solvers, published every morning. Every clue is a small puzzle in itself: a definition plus wordplay such as an anagram, a hidden word, a charade or a reversal, with the letter count in brackets. The clues are written to be fair, so once you see the trick the answer is unarguable.

      If you are new to cryptics, start with the smaller grid and use Reveal Letter when a clue has you stumped. Seeing how one clue works is the fastest way to learn the conventions. Regulars can go straight to the largest grid and race the clock against other Cuppa members.

      How to play Daily Cryptic

      1. Read the whole clue. One part is a straight definition, usually at the start or end.
      2. Look for indicator words: "mixed" or "broken" often signal an anagram, "inside" or "held by" a hidden word, "back" or "returning" a reversal.
      3. Check the letter count in brackets against the squares available.
      4. Type your answer and use Check to confirm. Reveal a letter if you need a nudge.

      A new puzzle is published every morning, Sydney time, and signed-in members keep their streaks and scores across devices.

      Questions about Daily Cryptic

      How is a cryptic clue different from a normal clue?
      A cryptic clue contains both a definition and a piece of wordplay that leads to the same answer. A quick crossword clue is just the definition.
      Are past cryptics available?
      Yes. Every edition stays in the archive, so you can play earlier days at your own pace.
      What sizes are there?
      The cryptic comes in several grid sizes each day. The 9x9 is the default and a good place to start.

      Browse the Daily Cryptic archive to play any past puzzle.

      More puzzles from Cuppa