Stays Crossword Clue

Today's (16 February 2024) crossword provided to us by Evening Standard - Quick and the clue is "Stays".
The right answer or rather the best answer listed below:

Understanding Today's Crossword Puzzle

The clue for today's crossword puzzle is "Stays" and the answer for this clue is "CORSET". The connection between the clue and the answer lies in the multiple meanings and associations of the word "stays" with the answer "corset". Here's why:

1. Stays as a verb: In one sense, "stays" can be understood as a verb that means to remain in a particular place or position. Similarly, a corset is a garment that is designed to hold and shape the body, providing support and keeping the wearer in a desired posture.
2. Stays as a noun: In another sense, "stays" can refer to a set of rigid supporting structures used in a variety of applications. Just like stays provide structural support, a corset consists of boning or stays made of metal or plastic that shape and maintain the structure of the garment.
3. Historical associations: Corsets have a long history and were worn predominantly by women as supportive, shaping undergarments. They were especially popular in the Victorian era. During that time, women were expected to have a certain body shape, and corsets were integral to achieving the fashionable silhouette. The notion of "stays" aligns with the historical role of corsets in shaping and staying the body in a desired form.
4. Clue as a wordplay: Crossword clues often use wordplay to lead to the answer. In this case, the clue "Stays" can be seen as a clever hint that suggests the answer "corset," as corsets literally "stay" or hold the body in place.

In conclusion, today's crossword clue "Stays" is best answered with "CORSET" due to its connections to support, structure, historical context, and the clever wordplay employed by crossword makers. Keep unravelling the clues and enjoy solving the puzzle!

Definition of "CORSET"

a woman's tightly fitting undergarment extending from below the chest to the hips, worn to shape the figure.

 The Crossword clue "Stays" published 24 time/s & has 5 answer/s. 

Crossword	Date	Answer
Evening Standard - Quick	16 February 2024	CORSET
Mirror classic	8 September 2023	REMAINS
Metro Quick	19 October 2022	REMAINS
The Telegraph - Quick	21 December 2021	REMAINS
Evening Standard - Easy	10 July 2020	REMAINS
The Irish News Quick	5 May 2020	CORSET
Penny dell	21 February 2019	ABIDES
The Irish Independent Simple	25 March 2017	CORSET
Thomas Joseph – King Feature Syndicate	4 November 2016	REMAINS
The Guardian	24 March 2016	CORSET
New York Times	10 January 2008	LASTS
L.A. Times Daily	8 November 2005	REMAINS