Docking station

PIER

["Here’s a helpful hint for the clue \"Docking station\" with the answer \"PIER\":\n\n**\"Structure where boats tie up, often made of wood.\"**\n\nThis hint guides the solver by emphasizing the function (tying up boats) and material (wood) commonly associated with a pier, without directly repeating the original clue or giving away the answer."]

The clue **"Docking station"** leads to the answer **"PIER"** through a straightforward definition. A **pier** is a structure extending into a body of water where boats can dock, making it a literal docking station. There is no wordplay or pun involved—just a direct synonym relationship between the clue and the answer. In crossword terms, this is an example of a **"straight" clue**, where the answer is a simple, direct definition of the clue.