Bit of cream

DAB

Think of what you might gently apply with your fingertip to soothe a minor cut or blend makeup.

"Bit of cream" hints at a small amount of something creamy, but the answer "DAB" plays on the word "dab" as a light touch or pat—like dipping your finger in cream and dabbing it on. It’s also a clever nod to the phrase "dab of cream," where "dab" itself means a tiny portion. The clue works by using the literal meaning of "cream" to misdirect while the answer relies on the verb form of "dab."