This phrase refers to a crossword puzzle clue where the answer is a device used to extract water from a subterranean source. An example might be a clue like “Water source apparatus” with the solution being “PUMP.” This type of clue typically appears in the New York Times crossword puzzle, known for its clever wordplay and diverse range of topics.
Crossword puzzles offer significant cognitive benefits, including improved memory, vocabulary expansion, and enhanced problem-solving skills. Cryptic clues, like those sometimes employed by the New York Times, add an extra layer of complexity, encouraging lateral thinking and creative interpretation. The use of specific terminology, such as relating to water extraction methods, adds to the educational value of the puzzle.