Plethora - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Plethora," is a classic example of a straightforward vocabulary question often found in early-week crossword puzzles. It tests your knowledge of synonyms for a common, yet slightly formal, word. The answer is short, sweet, and a staple of the crossword lexicon.

Clue Analysis

The word "plethora" means a large or excessive amount of something. The clue is simply asking for a synonym. When you see a single-word clue like this, your first instinct should always be to brainstorm words with the same meaning. The answer, LOT, is a direct and common synonym, especially in the phrase "a lot of."

Thinking Approaches

For a clue like this, a solver can use a few techniques:

1. Direct Synonym Association: The most direct path is to think of words that mean "a large amount." Your brain might cycle through abundance, plenty, many, ton, bunch, and eventually, lot.
2. Consider the Answer Length: The puzzle grid will tell you the answer is three letters long. This immediately rules out longer synonyms like abundance or surplus. You're looking for a short, punchy word. This constraint makes LOT a very strong candidate.
3. Use the Crosses: Three-letter words can sometimes be tricky because several options might fit. However, they are also confirmed very quickly. If you have even one crossing letter, say L-?-?, or ?-O-?, you can often fill in the answer with high confidence.

Background Context

The word "plethora" has an interesting history. It comes from a Greek word meaning "fullness" and was originally used in medicine to describe an excess of bodily fluid. Over time, its meaning broadened to the general sense of "an overabundance" that we use today.

The answer, LOT, is a wonderfully versatile word in English, which is why it appears so frequently in crosswords. It can mean:

• A large quantity ("a lot of books")
• A parcel of land ("a parking lot")
• An item or set of items for sale at an auction
• One's fate or destiny ("her lot in life")

This flexibility makes it a valuable tool for puzzle constructors.

Conclusion

"Plethora" is a great example of a simple definition clue that rewards a solid vocabulary. By thinking of synonyms and paying attention to the required answer length, solvers can quickly arrive at LOT. It's a confidence-boosting clue that helps build momentum for the rest of the puzzle.

Hints

1. Hint 1: A large quantity or amount.
2. Hint 2: A synonym for 'many' or 'a great deal'.
3. Hint 3: This word can also refer to a piece of land or an item in an auction.
4. Hint 4: It's a three-letter word often followed by 'of'.