May 18, 2026 Daily / 39D / 3 letters
Puzzle clues NYT Crossword
Unreturned serve NYT Crossword Clue
Use the hint first, then reveal the answer only if you need it.
Hint
Start with the clue's literal meaning, then test a 3-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
How to solve it
Read the clue type first
For the clue: Unreturned serve, first identify whether the wording is direct, referential, abbreviated, or playful. This one is best treated as a direct clue.
- Start with the clue's literal meaning, then test a 3-letter synonym or phrase against the crossings.
- At 3 letters, this is a compact entry, so one crossing letter can change the solve quickly.
- This clue appears at 39D in the NYT Crossword, so check the Across crossings for confirmation.
Reveal Answer Hide Answer
ACE
Explanation
Why This Answer Fits
ACE is the 3-letter answer for the clue: Unreturned serve. The clue works as a direct definition or close paraphrase of the answer. In this NYT Crossword, it appears at 39D, so the crossing entries help verify the exact spelling.
- Grid entry: ACE in the grid.
- Answer pattern: _ _ _.
- Clue type: Direct clue.
- ACE has 3 letters, matching the required slot for 39D.
Answer history
Other NYT Crossword Clues Using ACE
We have not seen many previous NYT clues for this answer yet.
View all ACE clues Position 39D
Answer length 3
Puzzle type Daily
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History
Clue History
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