Atlantic Crossword Logo

Allegedly bad places for Q-tips - The Atlantic Crossword Clue

Across

  • The clue "Color similar to lavender" directly points to LILAC, as both are soft, pale shades of purple. They are often associated with flowers, making them closely related in hue. The straightforward wording of the clue makes LILAC the appropriate match.

  • The answer is "REST" because it completes the title of Ottessa Moshfegh's novel My Year of Rest and Relaxation. The novel explores themes of withdrawal and recovery, making "rest" a fitting companion to "relaxation" in the title. This is a straightforward clue relying on familiarity with the book.

  • The answer is AMINO because amino acids are the fundamental building blocks of proteins in biology. The blank (___) indicates the word "amino" completes the phrase "amino acids," which are essential for constructing proteins in living organisms.

  • The clue "Cuatro times dos" is in Spanish, so the answer will also be in Spanish. "Cuatro" means four, and "dos" means two. Multiplying four by two equals eight. The Spanish word for eight is "OCHO," which is the correct answer.

  • SOFTREBOOT refers to a type of revival or continuation of a series that keeps some elements of the original (characters, themes) while reimagining others. The "soft" aspect indicates partial continuity rather than a full reset, aligning with the notion of retaining links to the original series.

  • "WSW" refers to west-southwest on a compass. A U-turn reverses direction, meaning the opposite of WSW is east-northeast, or "ENE." This answer relies on understanding compass directions and their opposites.

  • The clue "They might buzz when they fly" hints at DRONES due to their distinctive buzzing sound created by their propellers during flight. The question mark signals wordplay, suggesting a playful take on "buzzing" while flying—perfectly describing the behavior of drones.

  • The answer "RIG" is a common slang term for a custom-built high-performance computer, often tailored for gaming. Gamers frequently assemble their own "rigs" with powerful hardware like graphics cards, processors, and cooling systems to optimize gaming performance. The clue points to this context precisely.

  • The answer "SAC" makes sense because the amniotic sac is a protective membrane filled with fluid that surrounds and cushions a developing fetus during pregnancy. The clue refers to this biological structure, and "sac" completes the phrase accurately in this context.

  • The solution "STOW" fits the clue "Use an overhead bin" because when you use the overhead bin on a plane, you securely stow your luggage or belongings there. "Stow" means to place something in a space for safe keeping, matching the action described.

  • The clue "Word before roja or verde" indicates a term commonly paired with "roja" (red) or "verde" (green) in Spanish. The answer is SALSA, as "salsa roja" (red sauce) and "salsa verde" (green sauce) are popular types of sauces in Spanish and Mexican cuisine.

  • The clue "That's a bit corny!" uses wordplay with a pun. An "ear" is both a part of the body and a term for a piece of corn, as in an “ear of corn.” Thus, "a bit corny" cleverly refers to "ear."

  • LEON refers to Leon S. Kennedy, a prominent protagonist in the Resident Evil video game series. Debuting in Resident Evil 2, Leon became known for his confident demeanor, charm, and good looks, which have made him a fan-favorite and a character often associated with "sex appeal."

  • DISNEYLAND is the correct answer because it is a famous theme park in Anaheim, California, and is home to the iconic Sleeping Beauty Castle, a central landmark and symbol of the park. The clue directly references this well-known attraction, clearly pointing to DISNEYLAND.

  • The clue "Lost its edge?" with a question mark signals wordplay. "Eroded" fits because it describes the gradual wearing away of something, like the edge of a surface, due to natural forces like wind or water. Figuratively, it also implies losing sharpness or intensity over time.

  • The answer "SIS" completes the name "Sis Thee Doll," referring to the actor and performer Sis, who became the first Black transgender woman to lead a Broadway national tour. This name recognition highlights the individual’s groundbreaking achievement in the performing arts industry.

  • The clue uses wordplay and refers to "ear canals," which are commonly advised against being cleaned with Q-tips, as it can cause damage. The pun on "canals" connects the anatomy (ear canals) to the warning, making CANALS the fitting answer.

  • The answer "ECO" refers to "eco-friendly" or "ecological," which often denotes modes or practices that emphasize efficiency and sustainability. The "abbr." in the clue signals the shortened form of the term. ECO-friendly modes prioritize resource efficiency and environmental conservation.

Down

  • The clue "They're used to read discs" refers to the technology used in devices like CD, DVD, or Blu-ray players. LASERS are employed to read the data encoded on these discs by scanning the microscopic grooves on their surface. Hence, LASERS is the correct answer.

  • The clue "You can count on me!" in quotes signals spoken or conversational language. "I'm on it" (IMONIT) is a common phrase used to express reliability or readiness to handle something, aligning perfectly with the idea of someone being dependable.

  • The clue "Tomorrow is another day" conveys resilience and continuity, suggesting that despite challenges, life continues. Similarly, "LIFEGOESON" captures this idea, expressing perseverance and that new opportunities come with each day. It's a metaphorical phrase fitting the clue's hopeful, forward-looking sentiment.

  • The clue "Insect in banyan trees?" includes a pun (indicated by the question mark). "Banyan trees" refers to the word "banYAN," cleverly hiding the insect "ANT" within it. The answer is ANT, playing on the word within "banyan."

  • The clue "Vocal group?" with a question mark signals a pun or wordplay. The answer "CORDS" refers to "vocal cords," the group of tissues in the throat that produce sound, connecting the pun on "vocal" with the literal aspect of a group (cords).

  • The answer "ROBOCALL" fits because many phone scams involve automated calls using pre-recorded messages to deceive recipients. The term "robo" refers to the automated nature of these calls, which are commonly used in fraudulent schemes, making it a fitting response to "Many a phone scam."

  • The clue "Market-structures subj." refers to the subject studied in relation to market structures, such as monopolies, oligopolies, and perfect competition. These topics are core concepts in Economics, commonly abbreviated as ECON. This abbreviation fits the concise crossword format, making ECON the correct answer.

  • The answer is SHOE because it uses wordplay. A shoe has a "tongue," which is the part under the laces, but it doesn’t "eat," as it’s not alive. The question mark in the clue signals a pun or playful interpretation, making SHOE the perfect fit.

  • The clue "Alternatives to fries" refers to another popular potato-based side dish. TOTS, short for tater tots, are small, deep-fried grated potato pieces, often served as an alternative to French fries in meals or fast food. Both are crispy potato sides, making TOTS a fitting answer.

  • The answer "ERAS" fits because it metaphorically describes periods of time with distinct characteristics, much like chapters of a story. Each "era" is defined by unique qualities or events, making the term suitable for describing "chapters with distinct names."

  • In The Fairly OddParents, Wanda is one of the fairy godparents. Her name is a playful pun on the word "wand," a key tool for fairies. "Fitting name" hints at this wordplay, making WANDA an appropriate and clever answer.

  • The clue "Contract that might require a security deposit" refers to a legal agreement where someone rents property. A "lease" is such a contract, often requiring a security deposit as a financial guarantee for potential damages or unpaid rent, making LEASE the perfect fit.

  • The solution is SONIC because it is a well-known fast-food chain that serves a specialty drink called "Ocean Water," a bright-blue, coconut-flavored soda. This specific menu item directly connects SONIC to the clue, making it the correct answer.

  • The clue "Therefore ..." suggests a phrase equivalent to "thus" or "as a result." The answer, ANDSO, is a spoken or conversational phrase often used to mean "therefore" or "and thus," matching the intent of the clue's ellipsis for continuity or explanation.

  • The answer is REEL because it's a pun referencing "Reel Big Fish," a popular ska band. The word "Reel" ties into their name, maintaining the theme. Ska bands are known for their playful naming, and this clue uses wordplay typical in crossword puzzles.

  • The clue "National Peppermint Bark Day mo." asks for the abbreviation of the month when this holiday occurs. National Peppermint Bark Day is celebrated on December 1st. "Mo." is shorthand for "month," and DEC is the standard abbreviation for December, making it the correct answer.

  • The answer is IRA because Ira Gershwin was the lyricist who collaborated with his brother, composer George Gershwin. Together, they created many famous works, including the song "I Got Rhythm," with lyrics written by Ira.

  • The abbreviation "YDS" stands for "yards," which running backs accumulate by advancing the ball in football. The clue's phrasing "picked up" refers to the progress they make on the field measured in yards, aligning with the abbreviation in the answer.

Rate This Solver

View Yesterday's Puzzle

Solving today’s The Atlantic Crossword Puzzle and stuck on the 6-letter answer to the Allegedly bad places for Q-tips clue? Don’t worry, Lady Puzzle Pro has you covered! Whether you want the answer right away, revealed letter by letter, or this wordplay seems too puzzling, keep reading for the explanation.

Allegedly bad places for Q-tips Answer Explained

The answer is CANALS.

This clue uses wordplay, marked by the "?" at the end. It plays on the dual meaning of "canals." On one hand, canals are waterways; on the other hand, it refers to ear canals as the "places for Q-tips." The word "allegedly" nudges us to think about the debate surrounding whether Q-tips should or shouldn't be used to clean ear canals, which some consider a "bad place" for them. It's a clever pun on anatomical and physical canals.

Now that you've cracked the 32A Allegedly bad places for Q-tips clue, you're one step closer to completing today’s The Atlantic Crossword Puzzle! If you're still stuck on other clues, don't worry, we've got you covered. Explore more The Atlantic Crossword answers right here, or check out our tools for solving the Bracket City, Stacks, or NYT The Daily Crossword.

Today’s The Atlantic Crossword Highlights

I just finished today’s Saturday Atlantic Crossword, and it definitely felt like a proper end-of-week puzzle. The larger grid took a bit of patience, and there were a few corners where I had to lean on the crossings, but the challenge always felt fair.
My favourite clue was SOFT REBOOT. I like how it plays on the idea of bringing back a TV series or film franchise while keeping some continuity with the original rather than starting completely from scratch. It's a term that's become increasingly common in modern entertainment, and it made for a satisfying long answer.
Another clue that made me laugh was CANALS for “Allegedly bad places for Q-tips.” It's a playful reference to the long-standing advice not to insert cotton swabs into your ear canals, even though plenty of people still do. Those kinds of clues gave the puzzle a lot of personality. Overall, it was a rewarding Saturday solve with just the right amount of challenge.

Here’s what caught our attention today:

About The Atlantic Crossword and The Atlantic Games

A Daily Puzzle for Every Solver

The Atlantic Crossword is a daily digital crossword designed to challenge and delight solvers of all levels. It was launched in 2018 and has since become a standout offering among modern crosswords, with fresh clues and clever themes.

Weekday Progression: From Easy to Tricky

  • Monday to Friday: The puzzle starts small on Monday and increases in size and difficulty throughout the week.
  • Sunday Edition: A larger, more challenging puzzle appears every Sunday, constructed by a rotating cast of skilled puzzle makers.

Where to Play

You can access the crossword directly on The Atlantic’s website or via their mobile app.

Social Play Feature

Want to solve with friends? The Atlantic Crossword includes a Social Play option that lets you invite others to collaborate in real time, perfect for puzzling together from afar.

Free and Subscriber-Only Access

Most daily puzzles are free to play. However, some bonus content, like archives and special puzzles, may be reserved for Atlantic subscribers.

Part of a Growing Puzzle Lineup

The crossword is just one part of The Atlantic’s puzzle suite. Other original games include:

  • Bracket City: The Atlantic’s fan-favorite game, where you solve nested clues to uncover events from that day in history. Need help solving the clues? Try our Bracket City Answers and Hints.
  • Stacks: A fresh take on wordplay and strategy, where you sort layered word tiles into tidy stacks. Stuck on today’s set? Use our Stacks Solver.
  • Fluxis: A daily blend of language and logic, where the goal is to uncover a secret pattern. Try our Fluxis Solver!
  • Caleb’s Inferno: A monthly, high-difficulty puzzle from Caleb Madison that challenges even elite solvers.
Lady Puzzle Pro Avatar