A cotton swab’s intended destination in a Los Angeles Times crossword puzzle refers to the specific square a solver aims to fill with a letter revealed by a “swab” or “Q-tip” in a themed puzzle. This often involves a rebus element, where a single square must contain multiple letters representing a pictorial depiction of the swab’s target. For example, if the image depicts a swab touching an ear, the solver might enter “EAR” into a single square.
Rebus puzzles, utilizing images and requiring lateral thinking, add complexity and engagement to crosswords. They offer a refreshing break from standard letter-based clues and challenge solvers to interpret visual information within the grid’s constraints. This type of wordplay has a long history in puzzle design, adding an extra layer of difficulty and entertainment.