21 Down

NYT Daily • August 15, 2025

My word!

Answer:

BOND

Hint:

This spy’s famous last name might also describe a strong connection between people.

Explanation:

This clue plays on the famous catchphrase "Bond... James Bond" from the 007 films, where the spy introduces himself that way. The phrase "My word!" hints at the word "Bond" by mimicking the iconic self-referential line—here, "my word" is a playful way to say "my name." It’s a clever nod to pop culture where the answer is hidden in how the clue sounds when you think of the character’s signature introduction.

More Clues from This Puzzle

1 Across

5 letters

Like the culture depicted in Safiya Sinclair's best-selling memoir "How to Say Babylon"

6 Across

5 letters

English translation of the Dutch "klompen"

11 Across

14 letters

Robotic error message

15 Across

15 letters

Sooner rather than later