Crossword Genius

Element identified by sharp-witted cook at sea (11)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

quicksilver

'element' is the definition.
(quicksilver is an old name for mercury)

'sharp-witted cook at sea' is the wordplay.
'sharp-witted' becomes 'quick' (I've seen this in another clue).
'cook at sea' becomes 'silver' (Long John Silver in the novel Treasure Island).
'quick'+'silver'='QUICKSILVER'

'identified by' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for quicksilver that I've seen before include "so rapid" , "Mercury - volatile" , "Liquid mercury" , "Element of dentistry" .)

I've seen this clue in The Times.
Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.