Parseword

Parseword is a daily wordplay game built on cryptic crossword clues. Each day there is one numbered clue, often written by a guest setter (Fraser Simpson and Steve Mossberg of AVCX set clues in October 2026), with a difficulty label such as Hard.

Instead of typing an answer, you work through the clue. The definition is underlined, and the rest of the clue is a row of word tiles. You select one or more words and choose an option to replace them with: a synonym, an abbreviation, a reversed or rearranged version, or a container that puts one piece inside another. Step by step the clue's words turn into letters, until they spell a single answer that fits the definition and the letter count.

A learn mode tells you which kinds of moves the day's clue uses, a hint button helps when you are stuck, and a reference page explains the usual cryptic devices. New players can start with a tutorial and a set of starter puzzles, and signing in syncs your stats across devices.

It suits people who are curious about cryptic crosswords but find a full grid daunting, and seasoned solvers who enjoy seeing a clue's mechanics laid bare.