LA Times Crossword Answers & Hints – Solve Today’s Puzzle

The clue "Simple flotation devices" refers to basic structures that float on water, used for transport or rescue. RAFTS are flat, simple platforms made of wood, logs, or other buoyant materials, fitting the description perfectly as they are basic and functional flotation devices.

The answer is OXLIP because it's a specific variety of primrose, a flowering plant in the genus Primula. Known scientifically as Primula elatior, the oxlip is a pale yellow wildflower commonly found in Europe, fitting the botanical reference in the clue perfectly.

The answer is BEANO because it is a well-known over-the-counter digestive aid brand designed to prevent gas and bloating caused by certain foods like beans and vegetables. Its enzymatic formula helps break down complex carbohydrates, making digestion easier and preventing discomfort, fitting the clue perfectly.

The answer is EDWIN because Edwin Moses is a legendary American track and field athlete who dominated the 400-meter hurdles. He won gold medals at the 1976 and 1984 Olympics, setting numerous world records, and is renowned for his incredible winning streak of 122 consecutive races.

The clue "Playing both sides?" uses wordplay. STEREO refers to stereophonic sound, which uses two channels (or "sides") to create depth and dimension in sound systems. The question mark hints at the pun—"both sides" cleverly describes the dual-channel nature of stereo audio.

The clue "Med. theaters" uses an abbreviation ("Med.") to indicate the answer is also abbreviated. "Med. theaters" refers to Operating Rooms, commonly abbreviated as ORs, which are areas in hospitals where surgeries are performed—essentially medical "theaters." Hence, ORS is the correct answer.

The clue "Wingding" hints at a lively event or party using a playful term. "BASH" fits perfectly as it’s a slang term for a big, energetic party or celebration, aligning with the meaning of "Wingding" as a fun gathering.

The clue "Stood (with)" suggests an alignment or taking a position with someone or something. "SIDED" means to align or take someone's side in a conflict or argument, fitting perfectly as the answer. For example, if you "stood with" someone, you "sided with" them.

The clue "Tot's belly" uses "Tot" to indicate a child, and "belly" refers to the stomach. A common, childlike term for stomach is "tum," short for "tummy," matching the informal tone of the clue. Thus, the answer is TUM.

The clue "By and by, quaintly" suggests an old-fashioned or archaic term meaning "soon" or "in a little while." "Anon" fits perfectly, as it is a quaint, bygone expression used in literature or speech to mean "soon" or "shortly."

The radius and ulna are the two long bones in the forearm. They run parallel to each other, with the radius located on the thumb side and the ulna on the pinky side. As "neighbor" suggests proximity, ULNA is the correct answer for "Radius neighbor."

The clue "Heat-and-serve option" refers to a pre-packaged meal designed to be reheated and eaten with minimal preparation. A "TV DINNER" fits perfectly, as it is a classic frozen meal that became popular for its convenience, often eaten in front of the TV.

The answer "EMBARGO" fits the clue "Targeted trade ban" because an embargo is a governmental restriction specifically prohibiting trade or commerce with a particular country or group, making it a targeted and deliberate trade ban. The term aligns perfectly with the definition given in the clue.

The answer is MOOR because "Tie up to a pier" refers to the act of securing a boat to a dock or pier, which is called "mooring." To moor means to anchor or fix a vessel in place using ropes or anchors. This fits the definition perfectly.

Balthazar is one of the Three Magi, or Wise Men, who visited the newborn Jesus bearing gifts, as described in Christian tradition. Alongside Melchior and Caspar, Balthazar is often depicted as bringing myrrh. This makes "Balthazar" a fitting answer to the clue "One of the Magi."

The answer "ENT" stands for Ear, Nose, and Throat specialist, a doctor trained to treat conditions related to these areas, including sinus issues. The clue says "briefly," signaling the use of an abbreviation. Thus, ENT is the correct concise term for this specialist.

The clue "Court figs." refers to figures you'd commonly find in a court of law. "DAS" is short for District Attorneys, who are legal officials representing the government in a given jurisdiction. They play a key role in court cases, making this the fitting answer.

TIARA is the correct answer because it is a jeweled crown or decorative headpiece often associated with royalty or special events, like a prom. A prom queen typically wears such an elegant accessory to symbolize her title and importance during the event.

The clue "Femur, for one" refers to a specific type of bone in the human body. The femur is the longest and strongest bone, located in the leg. Since it is a bone found in the leg, the answer "LEGBONE" accurately describes it.

The clue "Last year's sr." refers to someone who was a senior (sr.) last year. After graduating, a senior becomes an "alumnus" or "alumna," commonly abbreviated as ALUM. Hence, ALUM is the solution, representing a former senior who has graduated.

The clue "Run-of-the-mill object?" is a pun. A "mill" cuts logs into lumber, so a log is literally an object that can run through a mill. The question mark hints at this playful double meaning, making "LOG" the fitting answer.

The answer is DRE because it refers to Dr. Dre, a legendary rapper, producer, and entrepreneur from Compton, California. The "Dr." in the clue is a nod to his stage name, and "from Compton" references his roots and major influence on West Coast hip-hop culture.

The clue "Wetland" directly describes a type of land that is waterlogged or swampy. A MARSH is a wetland characterized by grasses, reeds, and herbaceous plants growing in shallow water, making it a precise match for the clue. The answer is straightforward and literal.

The answer "ACERS" refers to laptops made by Acer, a well-known Taiwanese electronics company. The plural "ACERS" suggests multiple laptops from this brand, fitting the clue "Some Taiwanese laptops."

The clue "Home office need" points to a fundamental piece of furniture commonly required in a home office: a DESK. A desk provides the necessary workspace for activities such as computer use, writing, or organizing, making it an essential item for any home office setup.

The clue "Pop's pop" plays on the double meaning of "pop." Here, "Pop" refers to a father, and "Pop's pop" would be his father, or grandfather. Informally, "grandfather" is often called "Grampa," making GRAMPA the fitting solution to this playful clue.

The clue "Fan pub" uses wordplay. A "fan" publication refers to a "fanzine," a self-published magazine created by fans of a particular interest or hobby. The abbreviation of "fanzine" is "ZINE," which fits the concise wording of the clue. "Pub" here cleverly hints at "publication."

IPAs (India Pale Ales) are a type of beer known for their higher alcohol by volume (ABV) compared to many other beers. The clue "Some high-ABV brews" directly points to this characteristic, as IPAs often have a more robust alcohol content, aligning perfectly with the description.

The answer is ROBIN because Robin Williams played the role of Sean Maguire, a therapist, in the 1997 film Good Will Hunting. His performance earned him an Academy Award for Best Supporting Actor, making him a key figure associated with the movie.

The answer "TAPER" fits the clue "Narrow" because to "taper" means to gradually decrease in width or thickness, essentially becoming narrower. It directly aligns with the definition of the clue in a descriptive sense.

The clue "Sports center" refers to a venue where sports are held. An "ARENA" is a central place for sporting events, such as basketball games or concerts, making it the perfect answer. It's a straightforward definition-based clue with no wordplay involved.

An aviary is a large enclosure for keeping and housing birds, typically in a zoo or similar setting. The term "inhabitants" refers to what lives in the aviary. Since birds are the creatures housed in an aviary, the answer is BIRDS.

The clue "Lummoxes" refers to clumsy, awkward, or bumbling individuals. The term "oafs" directly aligns with this definition, as it is often used to describe such people. Additionally, "lummoxes" and "oafs" are both plural nouns, making "OAFS" the perfect fit for the clue.

The clue "Take from page to screen" refers to the process of adapting written material (like a book or play) into a screenplay or movie. "ADAPT" precisely describes modifying the original material for a different medium, aligning perfectly with the clue's phrasing.

The Academy Awards, also known as Oscars, categorize winners by gender in acting roles. "Actress" specifically refers to female winners in acting categories, making it a "word on some Oscars." This aligns with the clue's reference to terminology associated with the awards.

The clue "One foot forward" leads to STEP as the solution because a "step" involves moving one foot forward in walking or motion. It’s a literal action, aligning perfectly with the straightforward phrasing of the clue.

The clue "Chairs" refers to leaders metaphorically, as the "chair" of a committee or organization is its leader or head. This use of "chairs" is common in contexts like meetings or governance, where a leader presides over discussions or decisions. Hence, the answer is LEADERS.

The clue "Turning points for ballerinas?" includes a pun. Ballerinas often dance "on pointe," balancing on the very tips of their toes. "Turning points" refers both to literal turning in dance and the toes as the focal point of their movements. Hence, the answer is TOES.

The answer "CRYPT" fits the clue "Underground vault" because a crypt is an underground chamber typically beneath a church, used historically as a burial place or a secure vault. The word directly aligns with the definition and imagery of an underground vault.

The clue "Start to behave?" with a question mark signals wordplay. "Start to" indicates the beginning of the word "behave." The first three letters, "BEH," when placed within "MIS," form "MISbehave," cleverly hinting at the pun: "MIS" as the "start to misbehave."

The clue "Avocado centers" refers to the large central seed found inside avocados, commonly called PITS. The plural "centers" matches "PITS," since avocados have one pit each. This straightforward clue uses a literal description of the avocado's core.

The clue "Press room?" ends with a question mark, signaling wordplay. Here, "Press" refers to weightlifting, a common activity in a GYM. The "room" part relates to the physical space where workouts, including weightlifting, happen. Hence, GYM is the clever answer.

ROLO is the answer because it is a popular candy made of caramel and chocolate, and it is famously wrapped in gold foil. This matches the clue perfectly, as it specifically describes the candy’s signature packaging.

The answer is ALEUT because the word "Alaska" is derived from the Aleut language. Specifically, it comes from the Aleut word alaxsxaq, meaning "mainland" or "object toward which the action of the sea is directed," ties to the state's geographic nature.

The answer "MISTER" fits the clue "Houseplant sprayer" as it directly refers to a misting device used to spray water onto plants. The pun lies in the wordplay: "MISTER" sounds like "mister," a person, but here it describes the tool.

The answer "CROAT" is correct because Zagreb is the capital of Croatia. A resident of Croatia is called a Croat. This clue directly references geography and nationality, making "CROAT" the fitting solution for a Zagreb resident.

The answer "CIRRI" refers to cirrus clouds, which are characterized by their wispy, hair-like appearance high in the sky. Derived from the Latin word "cirrus," meaning "curl" or "fringe," these types of clouds perfectly match the description of "Wispy clouds."

The answer is SADAT because Anwar Sadat was the President of Egypt who won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1978, jointly with Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin, for their efforts in achieving the Camp David Accords, a major step toward peace between Egypt and Israel.

The clue "__ lazuli" refers to lapis lazuli, a vibrant blue semi-precious stone historically valued for its striking color. "Lapis" is the Latin word for "stone," completing the phrase. This gemstone is well-known in art and jewelry, making "LAPIS" the fitting answer.

The answer "ACHE" fits "Yearn (for)" because to yearn means to have an intense longing or desire for something, often with emotional or physical pain. Similarly, "ache" describes a deep, persistent longing or discomfort, capturing the emotional weight of yearning.

The answer "SHAWL" fits the clue "Wrapped garment" because a shawl is a piece of fabric typically used to wrap around the shoulders or upper body for warmth or style. The term directly describes its function as a garment worn in a wrapped manner.

The clue refers to "Glazed treats" produced by snack brands Hostess and Little Debbie. HONEYBUNS are a widely recognized sweet, glazed pastry sold by both brands, making it the perfect fit. The answer matches the literal description of the treats in the clue.

The answer "SEAS" fits the clue "Vast expanses" because seas are large, open bodies of saltwater covering vast areas of the Earth's surface. The plural aligns with the clue's plural form, and "vast expanses" aptly describes the enormity of seas geographically.

Fibonacci, an influential mathematician known for the Fibonacci sequence, was born in Pisa, Italy, around 1170. The clue directly refers to his birthplace, making "PISA" the correct answer. This straightforward connection ties the mathematician to the well-known Italian city.

The phrase "Get the better of" means to outdo or surpass someone. "ONEUP" directly captures this meaning, as "to one-up" someone means to outshine or gain an advantage over them in a competitive or comparative sense. It's a succinct and fitting answer.

An "aerie" is a high nest, typically built by birds of prey like eagles. "Newborns" refers to young offspring. Therefore, "Aerie newborns" are baby eagles, which are called EAGLETS. The plural matches the clue, confirming EAGLETS as the correct answer.

The clue "Pampering places" refers to locations where people go for relaxation, rejuvenation, and self-care, such as massages, facials, or wellness treatments. SPAS perfectly fits as these are well-known venues designed specifically for pampering and indulgence.

The term "ACTION-PACKED" refers to something filled with activities or events, often with excitement or intensity. "EVENTFUL" perfectly matches this description, as it means full of significant events or happenings, capturing the essence of being action-packed. It's a direct, descriptive synonym.

The answer "COVETED" fits the clue "Highly sought-after" because to covet something means to intensely desire or crave it, aligning perfectly with the idea of being greatly desired or sought-after. The definition directly corresponds to the clue's meaning without requiring additional wordplay.

The clue "Succor" means help, assistance, or relief in times of difficulty. "AID" is a synonym for helping or providing support, making it the correct answer. This straightforward clue relies on their similar meanings in English.

The clue "Mamma __!" refers to the title of the famous jukebox musical and film, Mamma Mia!, featuring music by ABBA. The blank is filled with "Mia," completing the well-known phrase. The direct nature of the clue hints at this exact cultural reference.

The solution "COLT" refers to a young male horse, typically under four years old. This matches the straightforward clue "Young horse," as "colt" is the specific term used in equine terminology for such an animal. No wordplay or additional hints are present here.

The clue "Order from on high" refers to a command or directive issued with authority, often associated with a governing or divine power. An edict is an official decree or proclamation, typically issued by a ruler or authority figure, perfectly aligning with "order from on high."

Bluey is a popular Australian animated TV character, making "AUSSIE" (a colloquial term for Australian) a fitting answer. The clue refers to nationality, and “for one” signals an example of something that fits the description, in this case, Bluey being Australian.

The answer "SALAD" fits the clue "Light meal" because a salad is commonly considered a light, healthy, and simple meal option. It typically consists of vegetables, fruits, or other minimal ingredients, aligning with the idea of something not heavy or overly filling.

The clue "Regards" can be interpreted as "considers" or "judges," and "DEEMS" is a synonym for that meaning. For example, you might say "She regards him as trustworthy," which is similar to "She deems him trustworthy." Thus, DEEMS fits perfectly.

The answer "AVAIL" works for "Be of use to" because "avail" means to help or serve a purpose for someone, directly aligning with the clue's meaning. It's a concise synonym commonly used to describe something being useful or beneficial to someone or something.

The clue "Library receipt info" refers to details typically found on a library receipt, such as the name of the borrowed item. The TITLE of the book or material is key information listed on such a receipt, making it the correct and logical answer.

The clue "Simplified" suggests making something less difficult or more straightforward. The answer "EASED" fits as it means alleviating difficulty, relaxing, or reducing complexity, perfectly aligning with the clue's meaning of making something simpler or easier.

The clue "Costa __" refers to the country Costa Rica, a well-known Central American nation. The blank is completed with "RICA" to form its full name. Since nothing suggests wordplay, the clue straightforwardly asks for the second part of this geographical name.

The clue "Chipper greeting" suggests an upbeat or cheerful salutation. "HIHO" fits perfectly as it's a playful, lively way of saying hello, often associated with enthusiasm or positivity. Additionally, it's commonly recognized from phrases like "Hi-ho, Silver!" or the Seven Dwarfs' cheery song, reinforcing its chipper tone.

EROS is the Greek god of love, desire, and attraction. In Greek mythology, Eros is often depicted as a winged figure and is associated with romantic and passionate love, making him the direct answer to the clue "Greek god of love."

The answer is MAKO because the mako shark is known as one of the fastest sharks in the ocean, capable of reaching speeds up to 45 mph. The clue "Fast shark" directly points to this characteristic, making MAKO the correct solution.

The clue "Stipulations" refers to conditions or requirements that must be met, often expressed as "ifs" in phrases like "ifs, ands, or buts." The word "ifs" specifically captures these conditional stipulations, making it the fitting answer.

NEO is the solution because "neo-" is a prefix meaning "new" or "revived." When combined with "classical," it refers to something inspired by or reviving classical elements, such as in "neoclassical" art, architecture, or music. This aligns with how prefixes work to modify root words.

The clue "Her partner, sometimes" hints at the pronoun "she," which often pairs with "her" in sentences or contexts referring to a female person. The use of "sometimes" acknowledges that this is not always true, but frequently in language, "her" is linked to "she."

The clue "Oh yeah? __ who?" mimics casual, spoken language. "SEZ" is a playful phonetic spelling of "says," fitting the conversational tone of the clue. It represents a skeptical or defiant response, aligning with the question's informal challenge, making SEZ the perfect match.