This phrase describes a specific type of crossword puzzle clue related to objects monitored by the North American Aerospace Defense Command. For instance, a clue might be “NORAD tracks this” with the answer being “SANTA.” This relies on the well-known tradition of NORAD’s annual tracking of Santa Claus’s Christmas Eve journey.
Such clues leverage popular culture and current events to add an extra layer of complexity and enjoyment to crossword puzzles. They can introduce solvers to new information or reinforce existing knowledge about organizations like NORAD and their functions. The annual Santa tracking tradition, beginning in 1955, has become a beloved holiday event, and its incorporation into crossword puzzles further solidifies its place in popular culture.
