The “D” of D.J. NYT crossword clue

The clue “The ‘D’ of D.J.” points to the answer DISC. In the abbreviation D.J., which stands for disc jockey, the “D” refers to “disc”—as in vinyl records or CDs that are played during a music set. A disc jockey is someone who selects and plays music for an audience, often mixing tracks live at events, clubs, or on the radio.

This is a classic example of an abbreviation clue where knowing the full form is key to solving it. The word disc itself also evokes the roots of music technology before the digital era, reminding solvers of the physical media that DJs originally used. It’s a short clue with a touch of nostalgia and music history behind it.