They're passed in relays (6) - Crossword Clue
Answer: BATONS
Understanding the Clue
- This is a straightforward definitional clue that refers to relay racing, where batons serve as the physical object passed between team members.
- The wordplay works on multiple levels: "relays" directly references relay races, while "passed" describes the specific action of transferring the baton from one runner to the next.
- The number (6) indicates we need a six-letter word, which BATONS fits perfectly.
Why BATONS Is the Answer
- Batons are hollow cylinders, typically made of lightweight materials like aluminum or plastic, measuring between 28-30 centimeters in length.
- In competitive relay races such as the 4x100m or 4x400m, these batons must be passed within a 20-meter exchange zone without being dropped.
- The smooth handoff of batons represents teamwork, precision, and athletic coordination, making them instantly recognizable as the items "passed in relays."
- Beyond track and field, batons also appear in other contexts—orchestra conductors use them to direct musicians, police officers carry them for law enforcement, and drum majors twirl them during marching band performances—but the relay racing context is the most common association in crossword puzzles.
Tips for Solving Similar Clues
- Look for sports terminology: Words like "relays," "races," or "track" often point toward athletic equipment or competitions.
- Count the letters carefully: The number in parentheses is your most reliable constraint—BATONS has exactly 6 letters as required.
- Consider plural vs. singular: The clue uses "They're" (plural), which suggests the answer should also be plural, making BATONS more likely than BATON.
- Think about action verbs: The word "passed" is key here—what objects are literally passed from person to person in relay contexts?
- Cross-reference with intersecting words: If you have letters from perpendicular clues, use them to confirm BATONS fits the pattern.
- Context matters: While batons have multiple meanings, crossword clues about "relays" almost always refer to track and field racing.
They're passed in relays (6) - 7 Little Words - FAQs
Q: Could the answer be anything other than BATONS?
A: Given the 6-letter constraint and the relay context, BATONS is by far the most likely answer. Alternative words like "sticks" or "rods" don't specifically relate to relay races and have the wrong letter count.
Q: Are batons used in all relay races?
A: Yes, batons are mandatory equipment in standard track relay races. However, swimming relays don't use physical objects—swimmers simply touch the wall to signal the next swimmer can begin.
Q: What happens if a baton is dropped during a race?
A: The runner who dropped it must retrieve it themselves, which typically costs valuable seconds and can result in disqualification if picked up by another team member or if the exchange occurs outside the designated zone.
Q: Why are relay batons hollow?
A: Hollow construction keeps batons lightweight, allowing for faster running speeds while maintaining durability and easy grip during high-speed exchanges.
Q: Can BATON (singular) ever be correct?
A: Possibly, but less likely for this specific clue since "They're" indicates plural. However, some crossword constructors might accept the singular form if the letter count matches and intersecting words work.
