97 Across

NYT Daily • August 3, 2025

They study how knights move

Answer:

SQUIRES

Hint:

["**Hint:** \"Medieval attendants learning the ways of chivalry.\"\n\nThis hint guides the solver toward the historical context of \"squires\" without directly referencing chess or repeating the original clue. It keeps the focus on the secondary meaning of the answer while making it more accessible."]

Explanation:

Certainly! Here's a clear and concise explanation of the clue and answer: **Clue:** "They study how knights move" **Answer:** "SQUIRES" **Explanation:** This clue relies on a clever double meaning. In chess, a "knight" is a piece that moves in an L-shaped pattern, and those who study or analyze chess moves are often called "chess players" or "students of the game." However, the word "squires" has a historical meaning: young nobles who served knights, learning the skills and duties of knighthood—essentially "studying how knights move" in a literal sense. The wordplay hinges on interpreting "knights" both as chess pieces and as medieval warriors, with "squires" being the answer that fits both contexts. It’s a playful twist on the idea of studying movement, blending chess terminology with historical roles.