This phrase functions as a cryptic crossword clue. “Croons” suggests a singing style, while “lady” indicates a female vocalist. The answer is typically a well-known female singer’s name, like ELLA (Fitzgerald) or ADELE. Clues like this rely on wordplay and cultural knowledge to deduce the correct solution.
Cryptic crossword clues, often employing such descriptive phrases, challenge solvers to think laterally and creatively. They offer a stimulating mental exercise, requiring knowledge of vocabulary, popular culture, and idiomatic expressions. These clues have been a staple of crossword puzzles for decades, adding a layer of complexity and enjoyment beyond simple definitions. Their popularity stems from the satisfying “aha!” moment experienced upon deciphering the wordplay.
