23 Across

NYT Daily ? September 24, 2025

Cannonball Adderley's musical instrument, informally

Answer:

SAX

Hint:

This brass instrument is often featured in jazz and has a curved shape; Miles Davis also famously played a similar one.

Explanation:

This clue refers to jazz musician Cannonball Adderley, whose nickname hints at his instrument—the saxophone. "Informally" signals that the answer is a shortened version, so "saxophone" becomes "SAX." It’s a straightforward reference for jazz fans, combining a famous artist’s name with a common abbreviation.

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General solving tip

When a clue says 'informally,' 'slangily,' or 'casually,' think slang, clipped forms, or texting abbreviations. Try the short casual word you'd use in speech or a message.

More tips → General Hints