A splash is the likely solution sought by a crossword puzzle featuring this clue. This refers to the immediate, observable effect of a cannonball entering water.
Crossword puzzles frequently employ misdirection and wordplay. In this instance, the clue uses imagery (a cannonball’s trajectory and impact) to elicit a specific answer, engaging the solver’s visualization and reasoning skills. Such clues enrich the puzzle-solving experience by requiring more than simple recall. They contribute to the enduring popularity of crosswords as a mental exercise.
