Lash mark - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Lash mark," is a classic example of a straightforward definition clue often found in early-week puzzles. It's a direct vocabulary check, asking for the specific term for a mark left by a whip or similar implement. These types of clues are great for building confidence and getting a foothold in the grid.

Clue Analysis

The clue is composed of two simple words:

• Lash: This immediately brings to mind a whip, a cord, or a sharp, striking action.
• Mark: This refers to the visible trace or impression left on a surface, in this case, the skin.

Putting them together, the puzzle is asking for the noun that specifically means "a mark caused by a lash." While words like scar or bruise might come to mind, the puzzle is looking for a more precise term directly associated with this kind of injury.

Thinking Approaches

For a clue this direct, a few strategies can help you land on the answer:

1. Direct Recall: The most efficient method is simply knowing the word. If you've encountered the term before in reading or conversation, "Lash mark" will likely trigger the answer immediately.
2. Brainstorming Synonyms: If the answer isn't immediate, start listing related words. What are different kinds of marks on the skin? Bruise, scrape, scar, weal, wale, streak. This list might contain the answer or a word close enough to jog your memory.
3. Leveraging Crossings: This is a short, four-letter word. Even a single crossing letter can be a massive help. If you have the 'W' or the 'T', for example, you can test your brainstormed words against the grid. With W _ _ T, WELT becomes a very strong possibility.
4. Visualize: Picture the action described. The sharp impact of a lash would raise the skin in a distinct line or ridge. What is that raised ridge called? This visualization can often help access the right vocabulary.

Background Context

The answer, WELT, refers to a raised ridge or lump on the skin, typically caused by a strike, but also sometimes by an allergic reaction (in which case it's often called a weal or hive). The term is strongly associated with the kind of injury left by a whip or cane.

Interestingly, the word "welt" has other meanings that occasionally appear in crosswords:

• In shoemaking, a welt is a strip of leather sewn around the edge of a shoe upper to which the sole is attached.
• In sewing and upholstery, a welt is a fabric-covered cord sewn into a seam as reinforcement or decoration.

While these other meanings exist, the "lash mark" definition is by far the most common in everyday language and crossword puzzles.

Conclusion

"Lash mark" is a solid, easy-difficulty clue that tests basic vocabulary. It's a perfect example of how the NYT Crossword uses direct definitions to balance out trickier wordplay. By recognizing it as a definition clue, you can confidently use direct recall or synonym brainstorming, supported by crossing letters, to solve it quickly.

Hints

1. Hint 1: A mark left on the skin from an impact.
2. Hint 2: This raised ridge can be caused by a blow or an allergic reaction.
3. Hint 3: Think of the mark left by a whip or a very tight piece of clothing.
4. Hint 4: It's a synonym for a weal or a wale.