In today's NYT Crossword the clue for 38a is "Like a bugbear" and the answer is DREADED.
Definition of BUGBEAR from Mirriam-Webster:
1: an imaginary goblin or specter used to excite fear
2 a : an object or source of dread
b : a continuing source of irritation : problem
The local Bard in Rex Parker cites Troilus and Cressida , Act IV, scene II:
PANDARUS: Ha! ha! Alas, poor wretch! ah, poor capocchia!
hast not slept to-night? would he not, a naughty
man, let it sleep? a bugbear take him!
Dungeons & Dragons fantasy role-playing game features a Bugbear.
