clue

[ kloo ]
/ klu /

noun

anything that serves to guide or direct in the solution of a problem, mystery, etc.

verb (used with object), clued, clu·ing.

to direct or point out by a clue.

Verb Phrases

clue in,
  1. to provide with useful or reliable information: Clue us in on how these forms are to be filled out.
  2. to make familiar or aware: Has she been clued in about the rules of this office?

Origin of clue

variant spelling of clew

British Dictionary definitions for clue in

clue
/ (kluː) /

noun

something that helps to solve a problem or unravel a mystery
not to have a clue
  1. to be completely baffled
  2. to be completely ignorant or incompetent

verb clues, cluing or clued

(tr; usually foll by in or up) to provide with helpful information

noun, verb

a variant spelling of clew

Word Origin for clue

C15: variant of clew

Idioms and Phrases with clue in

clue in

Also, clue up. Give someone guiding information, as in It's time someone clued us in on what's happening, or I hope they clue us up soon. This expression, which uses the verb clue in the sense of “inform,” is sometimes put simply as clue (as in I'll clue you—this isn't going to work). [Colloquial; mid-1900s] Also see not have a clue.