TALKING SNAKE
Credit: Chicago Tribune Crossword
Ernest Lampert (adapted)

Each clue below can be answered with a phrase containing three consecutive S's.

1. Vacuum
2. Make an "X" with weapons
3. Judge's duty
4. Make Waldorfs, Cobbs, or Caesars
5. Retail ploy (as in "Everything must go!")
6. A-line or sack

Answers:

1. Airless space
2. Cross swords
3. Pass sentence
4. Toss salads
5. Distress sale 
6. Dress style