Cotton variety - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

The clue "Cotton variety" is a straightforward, definition-based clue that appears frequently in crossword puzzles. It calls for a specific type of cotton, and the answer is a four-letter word that has become a staple in the world of crosswords. This type of clue tests your general knowledge, particularly in the realm of textiles and materials.

Clue Analysis

The clue is as direct as it gets: "Cotton variety". The solver's task is to identify a specific kind or strain of cotton. There are several possibilities, such as Upland, Egyptian, or Sea Island, but the constraints of the grid (in this case, a four-letter answer) are key. The answer is a proper noun, the name of a specific cultivar.

Thinking Approaches

1. Direct Knowledge: The most efficient way to solve this is to simply know the names of different cotton types. If you've ever shopped for high-quality bed linens or shirts, you might have encountered this term on a label.

2. Brainstorming & Association: If the answer doesn't come to mind immediately, you can start brainstorming words related to fabric. Think about terms you've heard used to describe premium clothing: cashmere, silk, merino, and different types of cotton. This might jog your memory.

3. Using Crossings: This is a fundamental crossword strategy. A four-letter word is often easy to piece together with just one or two crossing letters. For example, if you have P _ M _, the answer becomes much more gettable.

4. Pattern Recognition (for experienced solvers): Veteran solvers will see a four-letter clue for a type of cotton and their brain will likely jump straight to the answer. It's a classic piece of "crosswordese" - words that appear more often in puzzles than in everyday conversation, though this one is fairly common.

Background Context

Pima cotton is a type of extra-long staple (ELS) cotton, which means its individual fibers are significantly longer than those of standard cotton. These long fibers can be spun into finer, stronger, and softer yarns. The result is a luxurious fabric that is resistant to pilling, fading, and stretching.

The name "Pima" honors the Pima people, a group of American Indians who were instrumental in cultivating this superior cotton on experimental USDA farms in Arizona in the early 20th century. Today, Pima cotton is grown primarily in the U.S., Australia, and Peru, and is renowned worldwide for its quality, often marketed under brand names like Supima.

For more details, you can read about it on Wikipedia: Pima cotton.

Conclusion

"Cotton variety" is a perfect example of a clue that bridges the gap between general knowledge and crossword-specific vocabulary. While knowing about textiles is helpful, solving crosswords regularly will also cement this four-letter answer in your mind. It's a reliable and fair clue that rewards a broad base of knowledge.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This refers to a specific type of high-quality textile material.
2. Hint 2: It is known for its extra-long fibers, which result in a soft and durable fabric.
3. Hint 3: The name is derived from a group of Native Americans who first cultivated this variety in the U.S. Southwest.
4. Hint 4: It is often compared to Egyptian cotton in terms of quality and feel.