NYT Crossword

"2001" villain NYT Crossword Clue

81D | 3 letters

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HAL

Explanation

Why This Answer Fits

HAL is the 3-letter answer for the clue ""2001" villain". The clue points to a specific reference rather than a broad synonym, which is why exact spelling matters. In this NYT Crossword, it appears at 81D, so the crossing entries help verify the exact spelling.

Grid entry: HAL in the grid.
Answer pattern: _ _ _.
Clue type: Reference clue.
HAL has 3 letters, matching the required slot for 81D.

Answer history

Other NYT Crossword Clues Using HAL

We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.

View all HAL clues

Hint

This clue leans on a named person, work, title, or quoted phrase. Identify the reference, then fit it into a 3-letter slot.

How to solve it

Read the clue type first

For the clue ""2001" villain", first identify whether the wording is direct, referential, abbreviated, or playful. This one is best treated as a reference clue.

This clue leans on a named person, work, title, or quoted phrase. Identify the reference, then fit it into a 3-letter slot.
At 3 letters, this is a compact entry, so one crossing letter can change the solve quickly.
This clue appears at 81D in the NYT Crossword, so check the Across crossings for confirmation.

Position 81D

Answer length 3

Puzzle type Daily

View full puzzle answers

Clue History

July 12, 2026 Daily / 81D / 3 letters

Puzzle clues

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