Sharp increase

The answer to the crossword question “Sharp increase is HIKE” is referring to the definition of the word “hike” which means a sudden or sharp increase in something. This definition implies that there has been a rapid or significant rise in whatever is being described. So, in the context of the crossword clue, “sharp increase is HIKE” means that if there is a sudden or significant rise in something, the correct word to describe it would be “hike“. For example, one might say that there has been a hike in prices, indicating a sudden or sharp increase in the cost of goods or services. Overall, the term “hike” accurately conveys the sense of a pronounced and notable increase in something.