Eccentric - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Eccentric," is a classic example of a straightforward synonym puzzle. It asks for a word that shares the same core meaning but might differ in tone or formality. This type of clue is a staple in crosswords and tests your vocabulary's breadth and flexibility.

Clue Analysis

The word "eccentric" describes behavior or a person that is unconventional and slightly strange. It comes from Greek roots meaning "out of the center." While the clue itself is a standard dictionary word, the answer is often a more colloquial or playful term. The puzzle is prompting you to move from a more formal adjective to one you might use in a more casual, lighthearted conversation.

Thinking Approaches

When you see a one-word definition clue like this, a few strategies can help:

1. Build a Synonym Ladder: Start with the clue word and list as many synonyms as you can. For "eccentric," you might think of: odd, strange, weird, peculiar, quirky, unconventional, bizarre.
2. Consider the Tone: Notice how the words on your list have different flavors. Bizarre feels stronger than quirky. The answer we're looking for often has a fun, almost affectionate, connotation. This helps narrow down the possibilities.
3. Use Crossing Letters: As always, crossing entries are your best friend. If you have a 'K' at the beginning or a 'Y' at the end, it can instantly guide you toward the correct, less common synonym. The double 'O' in the middle is also a helpful pattern to spot.

Background Context

The answer to this clue is a word that gained popularity in American slang during the mid-20th century. It's derived from "kook," a term for a crazy or eccentric person, which itself may have evolved from "cuckoo." The term was famously popularized by the character Gerald "Kookie" Kookson III on the late 1950s TV show 77 Sunset Strip. This pop culture connection cemented the word's place as a fun, informal descriptor for someone endearingly odd.

Conclusion

The clue "Eccentric" is a great reminder that crossword answers don't always live in the dictionary. They often reflect the way we actually speak. By brainstorming synonyms and considering the likely tone of the answer, solvers can quickly land on the right word, even if it's a bit... well, eccentric.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This word describes someone who is unconventional or strange.
2. Hint 2: It often has a playful or endearing connotation, not necessarily a negative one.
3. Hint 3: The word contains a double vowel and sounds similar to a type of baked good.
4. Hint 4: It's a synonym for "wacky" or "zany."

The answer is KOOKY.