Irons (7) - Crossword Clue
Answer: PRESSES
PRESSES is the solution to the crossword clue "Irons (7)". This answer works because to press clothing means to iron it, removing wrinkles and creases using heat and pressure.
Understanding the Wordplay
- Crossword setters often use household items and their associated actions as clue material. In this case:
- Irons = the appliances used for pressing clothes, PRESSES = the action performed with irons. The relationship is functional rather than definitional
- This type of clue requires solvers to think about what you do with irons rather than what irons are. It's a straightforward substitution clue without additional wordplay elements like anagrams or hidden words.
Why PRESSES Works for This Clue
- The word presses directly relates to irons through the action of pressing clothes. When you iron garments, you're essentially pressing them flat with a heated iron to create smooth, crisp fabric.
- The verb "to press" has been synonymous with ironing for centuries, particularly in professional contexts like dry cleaning establishments that advertise "pressing services."
- This clue uses a common crossword technique of taking a noun (irons) and finding a verb that describes the same action.
- The seven-letter constraint perfectly fits PRESSES, making it an elegant solution that experienced solvers will recognize immediately.
Tips for Solving Similar Clues
- Look for action verbs: When a clue presents a tool or object, consider what actions are performed with it
- Count your letters carefully: The (7) indicates exactly seven letters—PRESSES fits perfectly
- Check crossing answers: Verify that P-R-E-S-S-E-S works with intersecting words
- Consider context: Surrounding clues often hint at themes that can guide your thinking
- Think functionally: Don't just define the word—consider its purpose and use
- Remember common synonyms: "Press" and "iron" are interchangeable in laundry contexts
Irons (7) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Are there other seven-letter answers for "Irons"?
A: PRESSES is the most common answer, though FLATIRONS (without spaces) is too long. SMOOTHS could work in different contexts but doesn't fit the direct relationship as well.
Q: Is this clue referring to laundry irons specifically?
A: Yes, the domestic appliance interpretation is intended here, not golf irons or chains.
Q: What's the difference between pressing and ironing?
A: Technically, pressing involves lifting and placing the iron, while ironing uses sliding motions, but the terms are generally used interchangeably.
Q: Could this be a cryptic clue?
A: No, this is a straightforward definition clue. Cryptic versions would include additional wordplay indicators.
Q: Why is this clue considered easy or medium difficulty?
A: The direct relationship between irons and pressing makes it accessible to most solvers once they understand the functional connection.
