Network - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

The clue "Network" is a classic in the world of crosswords. It's a single, broad term that can point to several possible answers, but its most common and concise crossword counterpart is a three-letter word that solvers see frequently. This type of clue is a great example of how constructors use simple, direct definitions, especially in early-week puzzles.

Clue Analysis

The word "Network" has a wide range of meanings. It can refer to:

• A television or radio broadcast system (e.g., NBC, CBS).
• A group of interconnected people or things (e.g., a social network).
• A system of intersecting lines or wires (e.g., a computer network, a road network).
• A physical structure of threads or wires, like one made by a spider.

The challenge for the solver is to identify which of these meanings is intended, or to find a word that encompasses several of them. Given that crossword answers often favor brevity and common associations, we're looking for a short, powerful synonym.

Thinking Approaches

When you encounter a one-word clue like "Network," a few strategies can help you land on the answer:

1. Direct Association: What's the first image that comes to mind? For many, the idea of a network immediately brings up a spider's creation, a classic example of an intricate, interconnected structure.
2. Contextual Phrases: Think of common phrases that use a synonym for "network." The phrase "World Wide ___" is a massive clue in the digital age, pointing directly to the internet as a global network.
3. Synonym Ladder: Start with the clue and list synonyms. Network -> Grid -> Mesh -> Lattice -> Web. This mental exercise can often lead you to the right word, especially one that fits the letter count.
4. Use the Crosses: For a short answer like this one, even a single crossing letter is a huge help. If you have the 'E' in the middle (_E_), "WEB" becomes a very likely candidate. If you have the 'W' at the start (W__), it's almost a giveaway.

Background Context

The answer beautifully bridges the natural and digital worlds. The term originally referred to a woven fabric or a spider's creation. Its structure of interconnected threads made it the perfect metaphor for later, more abstract systems. The most famous modern usage is in the World Wide Web, which is a global information network. This dual meaning makes it a versatile and beloved word in crossword construction.

Conclusion

The clue "Network" leading to the answer "WEB" is a perfect example of a straightforward, definition-based clue. It rewards the solver for making a quick, common-sense connection between a broad concept and its most essential, often three-letter, synonym. It's a puzzle staple that serves as a reliable entry point for solvers of all skill levels.

Hints

1. Hint 1: Think of something a spider creates.
2. Hint 2: This word is often preceded by 'World Wide'.
3. Hint 3: It's a three-letter term for an interconnected system or lattice.