Wait + see NYT Crossword Clue – 16A
The Correct Answer and Explanation is :
The answer to the New York Times crossword clue “Wait + see” (16A) is “stopwatch.”
Explanation:
The clue “Wait + see” is a cryptic one, and to solve it, we need to think about both the literal and wordplay meanings.
- Wait: A “stopwatch” is a device used to time something, and one of the core functions of a stopwatch is to measure time while waiting for something to happen (like waiting for a race to end or a process to complete).
- See: A stopwatch also allows you to “see” the passage of time, which involves observing how much time has elapsed. It’s often used to monitor events that you are witnessing or tracking.
Now, let’s break down the connection:
- The phrase “Wait + see” implies the concept of waiting for something and then seeing the result, which is precisely what you do when you use a stopwatch. You wait, and you “see” how much time has passed.
Additionally, there’s a subtle wordplay element here:
- The “wait” part might allude to pausing the stopwatch or waiting for something to happen (like a timed event).
- The “see” part could refer to looking at the time displayed on the stopwatch to determine the duration.
Thus, a stopwatch is an excellent fit for the clue, as it integrates both the idea of “waiting” (timing an event) and “seeing” (watching time progress).
In crossword puzzles, this type of clue, combining both the literal function and metaphorical use of words, is common. The answer is simple and precise—just like the way a stopwatch functions.