Reference
Reference Notes
This clue appears to lean on a named reference or quoted wording in "Play the host", so spelling and context are important.
NYT Crossword
Play the host NYT Crossword Clue
Use the hint first, then reveal the answer only if you need it.
Hint
Identify the named person, title, quote, or cultural reference before checking the grid length.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
Classify this as a reference clue and verify that the 5 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
- This clue leans on a named person, work, title, or quoted phrase. Identify the reference, then fit it into a 5-letter slot.
- The answer slot has 5 letters, which narrows the clue to a specific grid shape.
- This clue appears to lean on a named reference or quoted wording in "Play the host", so spelling and context are important.
- This clue appears at 49D in the NYT Crossword, so check the Across crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
EMCEE
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
EMCEE is the 5-letter answer for "Play the host" in the NYT Crossword. The clue relies on a specific name, title, quote, or cultural reference, so exact spelling matters more than broad synonym matching.
- Grid entry: EMCEE in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _ _ _.
- Clue type: Reference clue.
- This is Down at 49D, so use the Across crossings to confirm EMCEE.
- EMCEE has 5 letters, matching the required slot for 49D.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using EMCEE
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all EMCEE clues Position 49D
Answer length 5
Puzzle type Daily
Solver context
Extra Notes for This Clue
Crossings
Crossing Notes
This is Down at 49D, so use the Across crossings to confirm EMCEE.
Editor note
Editorial Note
Classify this as a reference clue and verify that the 5 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
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History
Clue History
May 6, 2026 Daily / 49D / 5 letters
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