Lush - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

The clue "Lush" is a great example of how crossword constructors play with our expectations. While most of us immediately think of the adjective describing something green and abundant, this clue cleverly points to a less common, noun-based meaning. For a short, three-letter answer, it requires a quick mental shift.

Clue Analysis

The word "lush" has two primary meanings:

1. Adjective: Rich, verdant, and plentiful (e.g., "a lush forest").
2. Noun (Slang): A person who is a habitual drunkard; an alcoholic.

Crossword puzzles frequently exploit these secondary meanings to add a layer of difficulty. The clue is not looking for a word like RICH or GREEN; it's asking for a synonym for the noun form. The answer, SOT, is a direct, albeit slightly archaic, synonym for a drunkard.

Thinking Approaches

When you encounter a common word as a clue, especially for a short answer, it's wise to consider alternative definitions. Here's a step-by-step approach:

1. Identify the Obvious Meaning: Your first thought is likely the adjective form of "lush." If synonyms like DENSE, GREEN, or RICH don't fit the letter count or the crossings, it's time to pivot.
2. Consider Other Parts of Speech: Ask yourself, "Can 'lush' be anything else? A verb? A noun?" A quick mental check might bring up its use as a noun describing a person.
3. Build a Synonym Ladder: Once you land on the "drunkard" meaning, you can brainstorm related words. Think: drunkard, alcoholic, tippler, inebriate. This line of thinking often leads you directly to SOT, a classic crossword-friendly term.
4. Use the Crossings: With only three letters, even one crossing letter is a massive help. If you have _O_, you can test possibilities. Does POT fit? No. Does BOY? No. Does SOT? Yes, it's a perfect synonym for the noun "lush."

Background Context

The word SOT has deep roots, originating from the Old English sot, meaning "a fool" or "a stupid person." Over time, its meaning narrowed to specifically refer to someone made foolish by excessive drinking. This historical connection between foolishness and drunkenness is a common theme in language.

Interestingly, the term "lush" as a noun for a drunkard is much more recent, likely emerging in the 19th century. Its exact origin is debated, but it highlights how language evolves to create new slang for timeless concepts.

Conclusion

This clue serves as a valuable lesson in crossword solving: don't get locked into the most common definition of a word. By staying flexible and considering different parts of speech, you can uncover the intended meaning and solve the puzzle. "Lush" for SOT is a classic piece of misdirection that rewards a versatile vocabulary.

Hints

1. Hint 1: The clue is being used as a noun, not the more common adjective.
2. Hint 2: This noun describes a type of person known for a particular indulgence.
3. Hint 3: The person in question is known for habitually drinking alcohol to excess.
4. Hint 4: The answer is a three-letter, somewhat old-fashioned synonym for a drunkard.