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clue

n. · v.
US //ˈkɫu// UK //klˈuː// clue
  1. 1 evidence for a mystery (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a sign or some information that helps you find the answer to a crime or a mystery.

    a piece of evidence or a fact that serves as a guide in the investigation of a mystery or crime.

    Example

    The police found a small clue near the window that helped them catch the thief.

    Example

    Forensic investigators meticulously examined the crime scene, hoping to discover a single clue that might link the suspect to the robbery.
  2. 2 general understanding (n.)
    B1 Intermediate Informal

    knowledge or understanding of a situation.

    insight or understanding regarding a specific subject or situation; frequently used in the negative to indicate total ignorance.

    Example

    I don't have a clue how to fix this computer, so I'll call a professional.

    Example

    Despite having sat through the entire lecture, most of the students admitted they didn't have a clue about the complex theories discussed.
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  1. 3 puzzle hint (n.)
    B1 Intermediate

    a piece of information that helps you find the answer in a game or a crossword.

    a word, phrase, or sentence that points to the solution of a puzzle or crossword.

    Example

    The crossword clue for five across was very difficult to solve.

    Example

    The cryptic crossword was particularly challenging because every clue contained a hidden pun or a double meaning.
  2. 4 to inform someone (v.)
    B2 Upper Intermediate Informal

    to give someone information that they do not have yet.

    to provide someone with necessary information or context; often used with the particles 'in' or 'up'.

    Example

    Can you clue me in on what happened at the meeting this morning?

    Example

    The manager promised to clue the rest of the team in once the final details of the merger were confirmed.
Origin

Variant of clew (“a ball of thread or yarn”), from Middle English clewe, from Old English clīewen (“ball”), from Proto-West Germanic kliuwīn, from Proto-Germanic kliuwīną, klewô (“ball, bale”), from Proto-Indo-European glew- (“to amass, conglomerate; clump, ball, bale”). Sense evolution with reference to the one which the mythical Theseus used to guide him out of the Minotaur's labyrinth. More at clew.

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