| GAIETY | Condition of being merry, bright or lively (6) |
| FRINGE | A border of loose threads, tassels or twists; hair or "bangs" falling over one's brow; non-mainstream theatre; or, a bright or dark band produced by diffraction or interference of light (6) |
| ANDREW | Wander around being merry, maybe (6) |
| MADCAP | Impulsive, reckless or lively (6) |
| BUSIER | More occupied or lively (6) |
| ELAINE | Girl's name - from the feminine form of the Latin adjective 'clarus' meaning bright or clear (6) |
| LUCENT | Softly bright or radiant (6) |
| BRAINY | Very bright or black and showery (6) |
| SUNLIT | Naturally bright or a bit slightly dark (6) |
| CHERRY | A small, round stone fruit that is typically bright or dark red (6) |
| SAFETY | The condition of being protected from danger (6) |
| UBIETY | The condition of being in a definite place (6) |
| ESKIMO | Bright or Moon |
| RED | Having any of numerous bright or strong colors reminiscent of the color of blood or cherries or tomatoes or rubies. |
| HIGHLIGHTS | The best or most memorable parts of sporting or other events; blonde streaks or tints in the hair; or, bright or illuminated areas in images, paintings or pictures (10) |
| ACTIVITY | Word for busy, energetic or lively movement; a training exercise; or, a recreational pursuit or pastime, such as a game or sport (8) |
| REALS | Whirring calls of grass warblers reminiscent of fishing-line spools of the same name; bobbins; staggers; or, lively Celtic dances traditionally listed on cards at ceilidhs (5) |
| HOTSPOTS | Word for areas/flashpoints of danger, intense radiation, political unrest, volcanic activity or warmth; airports, cafes, libraries or other public places with Wi-Fi; or, lively popular venues, such as |
| BEGIN | Start being merry (5) |
| EMBROIDERY | Being merry I'd be cracked up about nothing - in stitches! (10) |
