Reversal · Charade indicator
over
“over” is a reversal indicator in cryptic crosswords.
The letters of the wordplay are reversed. Indicators use the imagery of going back, returning, or turning over (and direction in down clues).
Depending on the clue, “over” can also act as a charade indicator.
- Clue types
- Reversal, Charade
- Subtlety
- subtle
- Part of speech
- adverb
Note: X over Y: X above Y in down clue.
“Encounter swarm in retreat (4)”
Answer: MEET
Definition: "Encounter" — to come together with someone. "swarm" → TEEM (to be present in large numbers). "in retreat" signals a reversal. TEEM reversed gives MEET.
Related indicators
- about
- about-face
- about-turn
- above
- abut
- adjoin
- after
- ahead of
- alongside
- and
- around
- ascend
- attach
- back
- backtrack
- backward
Explore indicator types
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