Synonym Solver for Cryptic Crosswords
Every cryptic clue contains a straight definition hidden at the start or end. This tool helps you bridge the gap between recognising the definition and finding the answer. Enter the definition word from the clue, optionally filter by letter count, and get a ranked list of synonyms powered by the Datamuse API.
Tip: In Parseword, the definition is always at the very start or very end of the clue. Try entering both the first and last words here to see which produces useful synonyms. See our substitution guide and abbreviation dictionary for more help.
How to use this tool
- Identify the definition word in your cryptic clue. It is almost always the first or last word.
- Type that word into the search box above.
- If you know how many letters the answer has (shown in parentheses at the end of the clue), enter the letter count to narrow the results.
- Browse the grouped results by word length. The answer to your clue should appear in the list.
When to use the synonym solver
- You are stuck on the substitution step and need to find a word that matches the definition.
- You know the definition but can't think of the answer word that fits the letter count.
- You want to verify that a candidate answer is genuinely a synonym of the definition before committing.
- You are learning cryptic crosswords and want to build vocabulary around common definition words.