16 Across

NYT Daily • September 1, 2025

Carpet layer’s calculation

Answer:

AREA

Hint:

Not available

Explanation:

A carpet layer needs to figure out how much space to cover, which is their "calculation." The word "area" fits because it’s the mathematical term for the size of a surface—exactly what you’d measure before laying carpet. The clue plays on the double meaning of "calculation," hinting at both a math problem and the practical task of measuring floor space. It’s a straightforward definition with a real-world twist.

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