But the simplest interpretation: = two-by-two = 4; "am" = AM; "by 3" = next to 3 → "4AM beside 3" → puzzle answer "TRI" (three) as the piece.
Given the cryptic style, I suspect ; "am" = morning = "AM"; "by" = next to; "3" = three letters; total maybe "FOUR AM" → anagram? twbydy-am-by-3
However, if the dash before "piece" means the answer is hyphenated, "three-piece" fits, but the clue gives 3 letters. Could it be ? But the simplest interpretation: = two-by-two = 4;
Given typical puzzle answer lengths, is a clue for "AM" with something? No. Could it be
The string appears to be a cryptic clue in the style of a cryptic crossword.
If the answer is just ? "twbydy" = two by two = square, "am" = morning = A.M., "by 3" = ×3? Not fitting.
(since it says "piece" in the prompt): "TRI" or "TRIO" ? But length 3 → "TRI" .