small drum nyt crossword – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Answercrossword.com! If you're tackling a New York Times crossword and are stuck on the clue "small drum," you've come to the right place. Below, you'll find all the possible solutions, categorized by their letter count, along with clear explanations to help you complete your puzzle with ease.
Solutions for "small drum nyt crossword" by Letter Count
5 Letters
TABOR: A small drum, especially one played with a single stick while also playing a pipe or fife.
BONGO: A pair of small, open-bottomed drums of different sizes, played with the hands.
6 Letters
TOMTOM: A cylindrical drum typically without snares, often used as part of a drum kit.
More About "small drum nyt crossword"
The clue "small drum" is a classic in crosswords, particularly in the New York Times, because it allows for several concise and distinct answers that fit common letter counts. Words like TABOR and BONGO are culturally rich and provide a nice challenge for solvers without being overly obscure. A tabor, for instance, evokes images of medieval music, often accompanying a pipe, while bongos are synonymous with Latin American rhythms and percussion.
Understanding these specific types of small drums can not only help you solve the current puzzle but also expand your general knowledge. Crosswords often leverage the multiple meanings or specific definitions of words, and "small drum" is a perfect example where a general concept points to very specific instruments. The inclusion of "NYT" in the clue often indicates that the answer will be a well-known, widely accepted term rather than a niche or highly technical one.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Count Letters Carefully: Always confirm the required number of letters for the answer. This is the first and most crucial step, as it immediately narrows down possibilities for clues like "small drum."
- Check Crossing Letters: The letters revealed by intersecting clues are your best friends. They can quickly confirm or eliminate potential answers, especially when multiple words fit the initial letter count.
- Consider Common Crossword Tropes: Many common words have specific "crosswordese" definitions or associations. For example, "small drum" frequently leads to TABOR or BONGO. Learning these common pairings can significantly speed up your solving time.
- Think Beyond the Obvious: Sometimes, a "small drum" might refer to a less common instrument or a specific part of a drum. While NYT puzzles tend to be fair, being open to less common but valid terms can be beneficial.
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is 'small drum' a common crossword clue?
'Small drum' is a popular crossword clue because there are several distinct, relatively short words (like TABOR, BONGO, and TOMTOM) that fit well into crossword grids and refer to specific types of small drums. These words often have interesting etymologies or cultural associations, making them versatile for puzzle constructors.
What other types of drums might appear in crosswords?
Crossword clues related to drums can vary widely. You might see clues for SNARE, BASS, CONGA, TIMPANI, or even more exotic instruments like BODHRAN or DJEMBE, depending on the puzzle's theme and difficulty. Sometimes, the clue might refer to a part of a drum, like a RIM or HEAD.
How can I identify the correct 'small drum' answer?
To pinpoint the exact answer for 'small drum', first check the number of letters required for the solution. Then, look at the crossing letters from other clues. The context of the puzzle, such as its theme or the constructor's style (especially for the NYT), can also provide subtle hints. If it's a common puzzle, expect a well-known word.