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It's straight (unless round) (3)

Minute Cryptic clue · August 8, 2026 · answer and full explanation
By Ahmed Hassan
Answer verified against the live puzzle

The Minute Cryptic clue “It's straight (unless round)” (3) was set for Saturday, August 8, 2026. Below is the answer — blurred until you tap — followed by the definition, the wordplay and why the letters land where they do.

Minute Cryptic · August 8, 2026

It's straight (unless round)

(3)

The answer isROD

No spoilers — the answer stays blurred until you tap.

Letters 3

How this clue works

The answer

ROD

The clue reads “It's straight (unless round)” (3).

What ROD means

/ɹɒd/noun / verb
noun

A straight, round stick, shaft, bar, cane, or staff.

noun

A longitudinal pole used for forming part of a framework such as an awning or tent.

verb

To reinforce concrete with metal rods.

verb

To furnish with rods, especially lightning rods.

Synonyms

skyfish

This clue’s puzzle day

This clue was the Minute Cryptic for Saturday, August 8, 2026. Open the August 8, 2026 puzzle page for that day’s write-up, or browse the full Minute Cryptic archive.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the answer to “It's straight (unless round)”?
The answer is ROD (3 letters). Tap the reveal button above to see it in the answer card.
How do I read a cryptic clue like this?
Every cryptic clue has two halves: a straight definition (at the start or the end) and a piece of wordplay that builds the same word letter by letter. Find the definition first, count the letters from the enumeration, then work out which trick the rest of the clue is playing.
Is there a new Minute Cryptic every day?
Yes — one cryptic clue a day at minutecryptic.com, plus community-set clues. We publish each day’s answer and breakdown here shortly after it goes live.