Cryptic Stuff

[not_for_sale2025]

While it was done some years ago I see, I thought I would try a cryptic crossword-like thread for fun and to try and boost a little more interest here. I made up the below question for anyone interested in such a challenge. I thought the first person to get it correct might come up with the next question. A clue though - if you copy one from a newspaper or magazine etc., the answer can often be found on the internet. I can explain the answer for anyone who asks. 🙂

The prisoner at the cave would not stand for the electrically charged droplets of water.

(12 letters)

[countessalmirena]

I almost gave it to twyngwyn, because of the chortle face emoji!

But of course you have it, nfs. Yes, chortle.

Too long consumed by work? Sounds humorous. (7)

WORDPLAY

Too long = TL (abbr)

consumed by [insertion/containment indicator]

work [charade: chore]

-> chorTLe

WHOLE DEFINITION

sounds humorous = chortle

Over to you.

[not_for_sale2025]

With severity, the clever one adopted a manner.

(8 letters)

[not_for_sale2025]

With severity, the clever one adopted a manner.

(8 letters)

_ _ _ _ i _ _ _

[not_for_sale2025]

With severity, the clever one adopted a manner.

(8 letters)

_ _ r _ i _ _ _

[twyngwyn]

Terminal….?

[not_for_sale2025]

Sorry, no twyngwyn.

[not_for_sale2025]

With severity, the clever one adopted a manner.

(8 letters)

_ _ r _ i _ _ y

[not_for_sale2025]

With severity, the clever one adopted a manner.

(8 letters)

_ _ r _ i t _ y

[countessalmirena]

adroitly…????

[not_for_sale2025]

Sorry, no countess.