Crossclimb #585 Answer – December 6, 2025

SUREFIRE

Answer

SUREFIRE

SURETOP
LURE
Decoy attached to a hook to attract fish

Solution: A term related to fishing, which can be tricky if you're not familiar with fishing terminology.

LUTE
Guitar-like instrument with a pear-shaped body that was played during the Renaissance

Solution: A Renaissance instrument; not something you come across every day!

LATE
Opposite of early

Solution: This simply means the opposite of early, a common term.

FATE
Destiny or kismet

Solution: Refers to destiny, and it's often used in various contexts.

FARE
Cost of a ride in a taxi

Solution: Commonly refers to the cost of transportation, but it can also mean a variety of things depending on the context.

FIREBOTTOM

Combo Clue

Compound adjective that describes a plan that is infallible, can't-miss, and certain to succeed

📖 How I Solved It

So, I dove into puzzle #585 with a mix of excitement and a bit of anxiety. The combo clue for SUREFIRE was pretty straightforward, but I got stuck on the Word Ladder. I initially guessed 'CURE' instead of 'SURE', thinking it might relate to a solution or remedy, but that didn’t work out. Then, moving from 'LURE' to 'LUTE' tripped me up for a moment; I had no idea about that instrument! I ended up second-guessing myself and thought I might have to scrap the whole thing. Eventually, after some trial and error, I made it through to 'FIRE', and it all clicked. It’s funny how a simple word ladder can turn into a mini brain workout!

💡 Tips for This Puzzle

❓ FAQ

The Crossclimb answer for December 6, 2025 (#585) is SUREFIRE. The complete word ladder is: SURE → LURE → LUTE → LATE → FATE → FARE → FIRE.