A "hint" is a small piece of information or a clue that helps someone understand or discover something without giving away the entire answer. Hints are often used in games, puzzles, or educational settings to guide individuals toward the correct solution or to encourage critical thinking. They can be verbal, written, or visual, depending on the context. In everyday life, hints can also refer to subtle suggestions or indirect indications about a topic. For example, someone might drop a hint about their birthday plans, allowing others to pick up on the clues without explicitly stating their intentions. This can foster communication and understanding in social interactions.