Wordplay
Wordplay Notes
For a blank clue, the missing entry should make the full phrase sound natural, not merely match a dictionary definition.
NYT Crossword
"Tom ___" (classic folk song that became a #1 hit in 1958) NYT Crossword Clue
Use the hint first, then reveal the answer only if you need it.
Hint
Read the phrase aloud and look for a 6-letter entry that completes the blank naturally.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
Classify this as a fill-in-the-blank and verify that the 6 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
- The blank is doing most of the work here. Look for a 6-letter entry that completes the phrase naturally.
- The answer slot has 6 letters, which narrows the clue to a specific grid shape.
- For a blank clue, the missing entry should make the full phrase sound natural, not merely match a dictionary definition.
- This clue appears at 21D in the NYT Crossword, so check the Across crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
DOOLEY
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
DOOLEY is the 6-letter answer for ""Tom ___" (classic folk song that became a #1 hit in 1958)" in the NYT Crossword. The clue is a fill-in-the-blank phrase, so the answer works by completing the wording naturally while matching the grid slot at 21D.
- Grid entry: DOOLEY in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _ _ _ _.
- Clue type: Fill-in-the-blank.
- This is Down at 21D, so use the Across crossings to confirm DOOLEY.
- DOOLEY has 6 letters, matching the required slot for 21D.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using DOOLEY
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all DOOLEY clues Position 21D
Answer length 6
Puzzle type Daily
Solver context
Extra Notes for This Clue
Crossings
Crossing Notes
This is Down at 21D, so use the Across crossings to confirm DOOLEY.
Editor note
Editorial Note
Classify this as a fill-in-the-blank and verify that the 6 letters answer fits both the clue wording and the grid position.
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History
Clue History
May 1, 2026 Daily / 21D / 6 letters
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