The solution is CLAM because a Cherrystone is a type of clam, specifically a smaller variety of hard-shell clam often used in cooking. This clue straightforwardly refers to the category of seafood to which a Cherrystone belongs.
5HEMI????✨ See Why
The prefix "hemi-" means "half." When combined with "sphere," it forms "hemisphere," referring to half of a spherical object, like Earth's northern or southern half. Hence, HEMI is the correct answer for the clue "Prefix with 'sphere'."
6AGING?????✨ See Why
In cheese-making, "aging" refers to the process where cheese is stored and matured over time to develop its flavor, texture, and aroma. This crucial step varies by cheese type, making "aging" an essential term directly tied to the process in question.
8PINTA?????✨ See Why
The clue "1492 vessel" refers to one of the three ships used by Christopher Columbus on his first voyage to the Americas in 1492. The Pinta, along with the Niña and the Santa María, was a key vessel in this historic expedition, making "PINTA" the correct answer.
9TOYS????✨ See Why
The clue "Some Hanukkah gifts" refers to items traditionally given during the holiday. TOYS are a common Hanukkah gift, especially for children, alongside gelt (chocolate coins). The word "some" indicates a subset of potential gifts, making TOYS a fitting and straightforward answer.
Down
1CHAP????✨ See Why
Fleet Street, a famous location in London, is historically associated with British newspapers and journalism. The term "chap" is British slang for "fellow" or "man," making it a fitting answer to describe a "fellow" on Fleet Street. This is a nod to British vernacular.
2LEGIT?????✨ See Why
The clue "Bona fide" means genuine or authentic. "LEGIT" is short for "legitimate," which also means genuine, real, or lawful. They align in meaning, making LEGIT the correct answer here.
3AMINO?????✨ See Why
AMINO is the solution because amino acids are the building blocks of proteins. They are organic compounds that combine to form proteins in living organisms, making them a key component of protein structure. The term "acid" in the clue directly points to amino acids.
4MINTY?????✨ See Why
The clue "Like some toothpastes" refers to a common flavor or characteristic. Many toothpastes are flavored with mint for a fresh taste and breath. The word "minty" directly describes this quality, making it the perfect match for the clue.
7GAS???✨ See Why
The answer "GAS" fits because a gas grill is a common type of BBQ grill that uses propane or natural gas as fuel. The clue directly points to different types of BBQ grills, and "gas" is a widely recognized category within this context.
Stuck on today’s LA Times Mini? Lady Puzzle’s here to help! Use the interactive grid to flip question marks and reveal letters one by one, check any clue in the list below, or uncover the whole puzzle at once. Plus, get explanations for why each answer works. Here is your go-to tool for solving the LA Times Mini (a free alternative to the now paid NYT Mini)!
Today’s Friday LA Times Mini blends straightforward vocabulary with a few clues that require a touch of trivia or specialized knowledge. Some entries lean on science, literature, or historical references, keeping solvers alert without being overly obscure. The puzzle balances familiar terms with slightly trickier concepts, providing just enough challenge to feel satisfying. A few clues also use wordplay or require thinking about categories in a broader sense, making the solve engaging while still approachable for a quick midweek-style Mini.
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