Answer: FACE

"Face" typically refers to the front part of the head, which includes features such as the eyes, nose, and mouth. In the context of a physiognomist, a physiognomist is someone who reads or analyzes facial features and expression to make judgments about a person's character or personality. So in this case, the word "face" likely refers to the focus or main subject of concern for a physiognomist, who would be interested in studying and interpreting facial features.

Note: The provided meaning of the answer is for the latest New York Times crossword puzzle clue: Confront. Explanations are generated by AI and may be inaccurate.