Instrument that buzzes
Published by Naitik Mehta · March 1, 2026
Stuck on the clue Instrument that buzzes from the New York Times Mini for March 1, 2026? We have the correct 5-letter answer, including the definition, alternative hints, as well as other answers from the same crossword. Ready to learn more about this clue?
Clue
Instrument that buzzes (5)
Answer
The answer to Instrument that buzzes is Kazoo (5 letters).
Why does Kazoo fit this clue?
This is a straightforward direct-definition clue where 'Instrument that buzzes' points squarely to KAZOO. A kazoo is a small, simple musical instrument that produces a buzzing or humming sound when a player hums or sings into it. The sound comes from a thin membrane that vibrates against the player's breath, creating that distinctive buzzy tone. Unlike most instruments, the kazoo requires no musical training, which makes it a popular novelty item at parties and parades.
What does Instrument that buzzes mean?
We break down each word in the clue and show its dictionary definitions below.
instrument
noun
•a tool or device used for a particular purpose
•a musical device that produces sound
buzzes
verb
•makes a continuous humming or vibrating sound
Where did this clue appear?
This clue appeared as 4-down in the New York Times Mini on March 1, 2026, by Ian Livengood, edited by Joel Fagliano. See all answers for this puzzle.
NYT Mini — Mar 1, 2026
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What does Kazoo mean?
noun
•A simple musical instrument (membranophone) consisting of a pipe with a hole in it, producing a buzzing sound when the player hums into it.
verb
•To play the kazoo.
Origin of the word Kazoo
•origin: American English, possibly imitative
•period: 1880s
The word 'kazoo' likely derives from the sound the instrument makes, with early patents from the 1880s showing various spellings including 'gazoo' before settling on the current form.
How to use Kazoo in a sentence
Here are 3 examples of how to use the word Kazoo.
•“The kazoo is a simple instrument that buzzes when you hum into it, making it perfect for beginners.”
•“The children's marching band consisted of drums, triangles, and several colorful kazoos.”
•“She picked up the plastic kazoo from the toy store and demonstrated how it worked by humming 'Happy Birthday' through it.”
What are other crossword clues for Kazoo?
Learn about related clues
All clues from the New York Times Mini, Mar 1, 2026 crossword
The New York Times Mini for March 1, 2026 was published by Ian Livengood and has 10 clues. Curious about all the answers from this crossword puzzle? View all answers here.
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Frequently asked questions about Instrument that buzzes
- What is the answer to Instrument that buzzes?
- The answer is Kazoo (5 letters).
- Where did this clue appear?
- This clue was last seen in the New York Times Mini on March 1, 2026.
- How many letters does the answer to Instrument that buzzes have?
- The answer has 5 letters: Kazoo.
Author
Naitik Mehta
Co-founder
Naitik is a gaming enthusiast who loves solving daily word games and enjoys the friendly competition from time to time. He is the co-founder of Crossword Chef and enjoys thinking about how to make crossword solving more fun for everyone around the world.
Puzzle
NYT Mini — Mar 1, 2026
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