Emulate an owl - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Emulate an owl," is a classic example of a straightforward, definition-style clue often found in early-week crossword puzzles. It's a fun, accessible entry point that relies on common knowledge rather than tricky wordplay.

Clue Analysis

The clue can be broken down into two parts: "Emulate" and "an owl."

• Emulate: This verb means to imitate or copy someone or something.
• an owl: The subject we are meant to imitate.

So, the puzzle is asking for a word that describes an action one would take to imitate an owl. The most iconic thing an owl does, at least in popular culture, is make a specific sound.

Thinking Approaches

For a clue like this, a few simple thought processes can lead you straight to the answer:

1. Direct Association: What is the very first thing that comes to mind when you think of an owl? For most people, it's the sound they make. This clue is a test of that immediate connection.

2. Consider Onomatopoeia: The answer is a word that sounds like the noise it describes. This category of words, called onomatopoeia, is very common in crosswords. Words like buzz, meow, and oink are frequent fill. The owl's version fits this pattern perfectly.

3. Use the Crossings: If you're momentarily stuck, getting even one or two crossing letters will likely make the answer pop into your head. A four-letter word for an owl sound is almost certainly going to be the one you're thinking of.

Background Context

While we associate the sound "hoot" universally with owls, it's worth noting that owls are capable of a wide range of vocalizations, including screeches, hisses, and whistles. The classic "hoo-hoo" sound is most famously made by the Great Horned Owl.

The word HOOT also has other fun meanings in English. It can mean a shout of laughter or derision. If you say "I don't give a hoot," you mean you don't care at all. And if an event is "a hoot," it means it was a lot of fun.

Conclusion

"Emulate an owl" is a delightful and direct clue whose answer is the quintessential sound we link with this nocturnal bird. It's a perfect example of how crosswords use our shared cultural knowledge to create satisfying solves.

Hints

1. Hint 1: What is the classic sound associated with an owl?
2. Hint 2: This word can also describe something very funny or a good time.
3. Hint 3: It's a four-letter word that sounds like what it describes.
4. Hint 4: Think of a sound you might make when you find something amusing.

The answer to "Emulate an owl" is HOOT.