Stranded during a winter storm, say

ICEDIN

["Here’s a helpful hint for the clue:\n\n*\"Think of a phrase that describes being stuck at home when the roads are frozen.\"*\n\nThis hint guides the solver toward the concept of being immobilized by ice without directly giving away the answer. It also avoids repeating the original clue while making the solution more accessible."]

The clue **"Stranded during a winter storm, say"** leads to the answer **"ICEDIN"** through a combination of wordplay and literal interpretation. 1. **"Stranded"** suggests being stuck or immobilized, which can be represented by the word **"IN"** (as in being trapped inside). 2. **"During a winter storm"** hints at cold weather conditions, particularly ice, which is represented by **"ICED."** 3. The phrase **"say"** indicates that this is an example or one possible interpretation. Putting it together: **"ICED" (frozen) + "IN" (stranded)** forms **"ICEDIN,"** meaning being stuck or immobilized due to icy conditions. The answer plays on the idea of being literally "iced in" during a winter storm, a common phrase meaning trapped by ice or snow. The wordplay is straightforward, combining two simple words to form a compound term that fits the clue's scenario.