15 Across
NYT Daily • September 11, 2025
Hand-held communication device
Answer:
WALKIETALKIE
Hint:
["This portable two-way radio was commonly used by soldiers and outdoor enthusiasts before smartphones became widespread."]
Explanation:
This clue describes a portable two-way radio, commonly called a "walkie-talkie," which lets people talk to each other over short distances without needing a phone network. The answer is written as one word ("WALKIETALKIE") instead of two, which is a common crossword trick to fit longer phrases into a grid. The name comes from how you can "walk" while you "talk," making it a straightforward but clever fit for the clue.