Lead-in to futurism
Published by Naitik Mehta · March 29, 2026
Stuck on the clue Lead-in to futurism from the New York Times Daily for March 29, 2026? We have the correct 4-letter answer, including the definition, alternative hints, as well as other answers from the same crossword. Ready to learn more about this clue?
Clue
Lead-in to futurism (4)
Answer
The answer to Lead-in to futurism is Afro (4 letters).
Why does Afro fit this clue?
This clue uses wordplay where 'Lead-in to futurism' means the prefix that comes before the word 'futurism.' An Afro is a natural hairstyle where hair is worn in a rounded, voluminous shape that extends outward from the head. The term Afrofuturism combines 'Afro' with 'futurism' to describe a cultural aesthetic that explores themes of the African diaspora through a science fiction lens. So 'Afro' literally serves as the lead-in or prefix to the word 'futurism' in this compound term.
What does Lead-in to futurism mean?
We break down each word in the clue and show its dictionary definitions below.
lead-in
noun
•an introduction or preliminary part that comes before something
futurism
noun
•an artistic and literary movement emphasizing speed, technology, and modernity
•the study or prediction of future developments and trends
Where did this clue appear?
This clue appeared as 66-down in the New York Times Daily on March 29, 2026, by Michael and Oliver Schlossberg, edited by Will Shortz. See all answers for this puzzle.
Read the NYT Wordplay column for this puzzle.
NYT Daily — Mar 29, 2026
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What does Afro mean?
noun
•A hairstyle characterized by a tightly curled locks and a rounded shape.
Origin of the word Afro
•origin: Latin Afer meaning 'African'
•period: 1960s
The word gained prominence during the Civil Rights era as part of 'Afro-American' and to describe the natural hairstyle that became a symbol of Black pride and cultural identity.
How to use Afro in a sentence
Here are 3 examples of how to use the word Afro.
•“The musician's vision of Afrofuturism blended traditional African themes with science fiction elements to imagine new possibilities for the diaspora.”
•“She styled her hair in a perfect round Afro that framed her face beautifully.”
•“The 1970s were known for bold fashion choices, including the popular Afro hairstyle worn by many celebrities.”
Learn about related clues
All clues from the New York Times Daily, Mar 29, 2026 crossword
The New York Times Daily for March 29, 2026 titled “Roundabouts” was published by Michael and Oliver Schlossberg and has 140 clues. Curious about all the answers from this crossword puzzle? View all answers here.
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Frequently asked questions about Lead-in to futurism
- What is the answer to Lead-in to futurism?
- The answer is Afro (4 letters).
- Where did this clue appear?
- This clue was last seen in the New York Times Daily on March 29, 2026.
- How many letters does the answer to Lead-in to futurism have?
- The answer has 4 letters: Afro.
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 Daily — Mar 29, 2026
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