Hebrew name meaning “high” - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Hebrew name meaning 'high'", is a classic example of a straightforward definition clue often found in early-week puzzles. It tests your knowledge of common names and their etymological roots. For seasoned solvers, this is likely an instant fill, but for newcomers, it's a great introduction to the world of "crosswordese" - the common short words that frequently appear in grids.

Clue Analysis

The clue has two distinct parts:

1. "Hebrew name": This immediately narrows the field of possible answers to names of Hebrew origin.
2. "meaning 'high'": This is the direct definition we need to match.

The combination points to a specific, well-known name. Given that many common crossword answers are short, we can anticipate a three or four-letter word. This clue doesn't involve any wordplay, puns, or misdirection; it's a simple vocabulary test.

Thinking Approaches

When you encounter a clue like this, a few strategies can help:

1. Direct Knowledge: If you know Hebrew names and their meanings, you might get this one immediately. Brainstorm short, common Hebrew names (ARI, LEV, DAN, etc.) and see if any match the meaning.
2. Use the Crossings: For a short answer, even one or two crossing letters can be enough to reveal the word. If you have E _ _ or _ L _, the answer often becomes obvious.
3. Think of Famous People: Sometimes, even if you don't know the name's meaning, you can think of famous individuals with short names. Does a famous Eli, Ari, or Ira come to mind? You can then work backward to see if the name fits the "Hebrew origin" part of the clue. In this case, thinking of figures from sports or history can be a helpful confirmation.

Background Context

The name in question has deep historical and cultural roots. In the Hebrew Bible, Eli was a high priest and the last of the Israelite judges before the institution of the monarchy. He is a significant figure in the First Book of Samuel, where he mentors the young prophet Samuel.

The name's meaning, "high" or "ascended," comes from the Hebrew root alah. This etymology makes it a perfect fit for the clue.

Beyond its biblical significance, the name is common in the modern world. Famous bearers include American inventor Eli Whitney, known for the cotton gin, and two-time Super Bowl MVP quarterback Eli Manning. This widespread recognition makes it a go-to choice for crossword constructors.

Conclusion

This clue is a perfect example of an "easy" entry that helps solvers get a foothold in a puzzle. It relies on a blend of biblical knowledge, etymology, and general cultural literacy. By being a short, vowel-heavy word, the answer is also incredibly useful for grid construction, which is why you'll see it time and time again. Memorizing this one is a solid investment for any crossword enthusiast.

Hints

1. Hint 1: This is a common three-letter name found in the Old Testament.
2. Hint 2: It's also the name of a famous American quarterback, Manning.
3. Hint 3: In the Bible, this figure was a high priest and judge who mentored the prophet Samuel.
4. Hint 4: The name is often a shortened form of Elijah or Elisha, but it also stands on its own.

The answer is... ELI