Old Fashioned Letter Opener NYT Crossword Clue Explained

If you are an avid crossword puzzle solver, you may have come across the clue “Old fashioned letter opener” in the New York Times crossword. This clue can be quite tricky, as there are several possible answers. In this article, we will explore the different options and explain why one particular answer is the most likely.

The Possible Answers

The first possible answer to the clue “Old fashioned letter opener” is “seal.” In the past, letters were often sealed with wax, and a seal was used to break the wax and open the letter. Another possible answer is “opener,” which refers to a device used to open envelopes. A third option is “knife,” as some people used a small knife to open letters.

The Most Likely Answer

After careful consideration, the most likely answer to the clue “Old fashioned letter opener” is “paper knife.” A paper knife is a small, sharp blade that was used to open letters in the past. It was also known as a letter opener or a page turner. Paper knives were often made of silver or ivory and were considered a status symbol.

The History of Paper Knives

Paper knives have been around for centuries. In the past, they were often used by wealthy individuals who wanted to show off their status. Paper knives were also popular among book collectors, as they were useful for opening books without damaging the pages. In the 19th century, paper knives became more widely available and were used by people of all social classes.

The Different Types of Paper Knives

There are several different types of paper knives. The most common type is a straight blade with a pointed tip. This type of paper knife is ideal for opening envelopes and letters. Another type of paper knife is a curved blade with a rounded tip. This type of paper knife is better suited for opening books and cutting paper.

How to Use a Paper Knife

Using a paper knife is easy. Simply hold the paper knife by the handle and insert the blade into the envelope or letter. Gently slide the blade along the top of the envelope or letter to open it. Be careful not to apply too much pressure, as this can damage the contents of the envelope or letter.

The Benefits of Using a Paper Knife

Using a paper knife has several benefits. First, it is a more elegant and sophisticated way to open letters than using your hands or a regular knife. Second, it helps to prevent paper cuts, as the blade is sharp enough to cut through paper but not sharp enough to cut through skin. Finally, using a paper knife can help to preserve the contents of the letter or envelope, as it is less likely to damage the paper or contents.

Where to Buy a Paper Knife

If you are interested in purchasing a paper knife, there are several options available. You can find them at antique shops, online retailers, and specialty stores that sell office supplies. Prices vary depending on the material and quality of the paper knife.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the clue “Old fashioned letter opener” in the New York Times crossword most likely refers to a paper knife. Paper knives have been around for centuries and were once considered a status symbol. They are easy to use, elegant, and help to prevent paper cuts. If you are interested in purchasing a paper knife, there are several options available.