The arrangement of characters frequently encountered as the solution to a New York Times crossword puzzle when the clue references a form of online contact information typically consists of a username, the “@” symbol, and a domain name. A common example is “JOHNDOE@EXAMPLE.COM”. This arrangement is a standardized way of indicating an electronic mail destination.
This type of crossword solution is prevalent due to its recognizable structure and its relevance to contemporary communication methods. Its inclusion in puzzles provides solvers with an accessible entry point, especially if they are familiar with digital technology. Historically, as electronic mail became ubiquitous, its characteristic formatting entered popular lexicon, making it a common reference point for crossword compilers.