startingclues
nounUK /ˈstɑːtɪŋ kluːz/
US /ˈstɑːrtɪŋ kluːz/
Starting clues are the first hints that help you begin to solve a puzzle.
The starting clues in the crossword made it easy to fill in the first few words.
OTHER MEANINGS
2. The first pieces of information that help someone begin to understand a problem.
The detective used the starting clues to figure out where the thief went.
3. The opening hints given at the beginning of a game or treasure hunt.
Each team received starting clues before the treasure hunt began.
4. Early signs that help explain something that is happening.
Scientists looked at starting clues in the data to predict the storm.