The term "EGGHEADED" is a descriptive slang for someone highly intellectual or scholarly, often with an academic or "brainy" connotation. It plays on the stereotypical image of intellectuals having large "egg-shaped" heads, symbolizing their intelligence. Thus, "Intellectual" and "EGGHEADED" align in meaning.
10Like embersAGLOW?????✨ See Why
The clue "Like embers" refers to how embers appear. Embers are the glowing remnants of a fire, typically emitting light and warmth. The word "AGLOW" means glowing or radiant, perfectly describing the visual state of embers. Hence, AGLOW is the most fitting solution for this clue.
15Tantric meditation practiced while in a sleeping stateDREAMYOGA?????????✨ See Why
The answer is DREAMYOGA because it refers to a specific Tantric meditation practice that involves consciously dreaming or maintaining awareness while in a sleep state. Combining "dream" (sleeping state) and "yoga" (meditative practice), the term perfectly matches the clue's description.
16PointlessINANE?????✨ See Why
The answer "INANE" fits the clue "Pointless" because "inane" means lacking sense, significance, or meaning—essentially, pointless. It's a synonym for something trivial or empty, directly aligning with the clue's definition. The concise word choice makes it a straightforward and fitting solution.
17"Would you like a bite?"WANTTOTRY?????????✨ See Why
The clue "Would you like a bite?" is enclosed in quotes, signaling conversational tone. It mimics what someone might ask when offering food. The phrase "WANT TO TRY" is a natural response to such an offer, fitting the conversational tone implied by the clue.
18Fruit high in antioxidantsDATES?????✨ See Why
The answer is DATES because dates are a type of fruit known for being rich in antioxidants like flavonoids, carotenoids, and phenolic acid. These compounds help combat oxidative stress and promote overall health, aligning perfectly with the clue's description.
19Prestigious octadIVIES?????✨ See Why
The "Prestigious octad" refers to the eight Ivy League schools, a group of highly respected universities in the U.S. These elite schools are often collectively called "The Ivies," hence the answer IVIES. The word "octad" indicates the specific group of eight institutions.
20Emily ___, winner of the 2024 Hugo Award for Best NovelTESH????✨ See Why
The answer "TESH" is likely fictional and a playful creation within the puzzle. It fits the clue’s format as a plausible last name for "Emily," an invented winner of a 2024 literary award. This clue adheres to crossword conventions of including imaginative or hypothetical scenarios.
22"The young man who has not ___ is a savage": George SantayanaWEPT????✨ See Why
George Santayana's quote expresses the idea that experiencing and expressing emotions, like crying (WEPT), is a defining aspect of humanity and maturity. The clue's structure with a blank suggests an emotive verb, and "WEPT" aptly completes the philosophical sentiment.
23Countdown occasion, for shortNYE???✨ See Why
The clue "Countdown occasion, for short" refers to New Year's Eve, commonly abbreviated as NYE. This is the event where countdowns are held worldwide to mark the transition into the new year. The "for short" part indicates the answer uses an abbreviation.
24Relative of a trivetHOTPAD??????✨ See Why
The answer "HOTPAD" makes sense because both a trivet and a hot pad serve similar purposes: protecting surfaces from heat. A trivet is often a raised stand, while a hot pad is a flat, heat-resistant mat, making them "relatives" in function.
26___ Dunn (brand of ceramic art and other housewares)RAE???✨ See Why
The answer "RAE" refers to Rae Dunn, a well-known brand of ceramic art and housewares. Rae Dunn is recognized for its simplistic and rustic designs, often featuring handwritten-style text on pottery, kitchenware, and décor items. This matches the clue mentioning a brand of ceramic art and housewares.
27"That's so relatable," in modern slangMOOD????✨ See Why
The clue "That's so relatable," in modern slang refers to a phrase used to express deep agreement or shared feeling. In slang, "MOOD" is often used to indicate a strong identification with a situation, emotion, or statement, making it the perfect fit for this clue.
29Aquarius is one, perhaps surprisinglyAIRSIGN???????✨ See Why
Aquarius is part of the zodiac signs, and while it's symbolized by the water bearer, it is actually an air sign, not a water sign. The "perhaps surprisingly" highlights the misleading association with water, making the answer AIRSIGN cleverly fit.
31Literally, "good word"BONMOT??????✨ See Why
The clue "Literally, 'good word'" hints at a term with its meaning derived directly from the clue. "Bon mot" is French, where "bon" means "good" and "mot" means "word." Together, "bon mot" translates to "good word," often referring to a clever or witty remark.
33ExpiredLAPSED??????✨ See Why
The word "LAPSED" is synonymous with "Expired," as both refer to something that has ended, become invalid, or fallen out of effect. For example, a lapsed subscription or agreement is one that has expired and is no longer active.
34Source of an unsigned love letterSECRETADMIRER?????????????✨ See Why
The answer "SECRETADMIRER" fits because an unsigned love letter typically comes from someone who wishes to express affection while remaining anonymous. A "secret admirer" is a common term for someone conveying romantic feelings without revealing their identity. The clue cleverly hints at this scenario.
36ChargeRUSHAT??????✨ See Why
The clue "Charge" has multiple meanings. Here, it refers to rushing at someone or something, like a physical charge in an attack or movement. "Rush at" describes this action directly, making it the fitting solution. The phrasing suggests a more dynamic, active interpretation.
37Not as niceMEANER??????✨ See Why
The clue "Not as nice" describes something or someone less kind or pleasant. "Meaner" directly fits as it is the comparative form of "mean," meaning less nice or more unkind, perfectly matching the clue's intent. This straightforward definition explains why MEANER is the solution.
38___ Prime, protagonist in the "Transformers" franchiseOPTIMUS???????✨ See Why
OPTIMUS is the solution because Optimus Prime is the central protagonist in the "Transformers" franchise. He is the leader of the Autobots, a group of heroic Transformers fighting against the villainous Decepticons. The clue's blank before "Prime" directly points to his recognizable name.
40Gaelic languageERSE????✨ See Why
The answer "ERSE" refers to the historical term for Gaelic languages, particularly Scottish Gaelic or Irish. Historically, "Erse" was used to describe the language of the Scots, derived from "Ers" (Irish). Though less common today, it remains a crossword standard for "Gaelic language."
41Vote forYEA???✨ See Why
The clue "Vote for" refers to a term commonly used to signify agreement or approval in a formal vote. "YEA" is a direct synonym for an affirmative vote, often paired with "nay" for dissent. Therefore, "YEA" is the correct answer.
42"Gossip Girl" fashion descriptorPREPPY??????✨ See Why
The answer "PREPPY" fits the clue because the characters in "Gossip Girl" are known for their affluent, elite style inspired by private schools and Ivy League fashion. "Preppy" describes this polished, classic aesthetic, often associated with blazers, loafers, and plaid skirts, reflective of the show's wardrobe themes.
44"... your point being?"AND???✨ See Why
The clue "... your point being?" hints at a conversational or rhetorical tone, often demanding more clarification. "AND" fits as a spoken response, suggesting, "Okay, and what’s your point?" It’s concise and captures the implied challenge to elaborate further in informal dialogue.
47Parabolic pathsARCS????✨ See Why
The clue "Parabolic paths" refers to curved trajectories that resemble the shape of a parabola. ARCS are curved paths, closely aligning with the parabolic shape described in the clue. This makes ARCS the appropriate answer, as both terms describe similar curved motions or shapes.
49Land granted to a vassalFIEF????✨ See Why
The term "fief" refers to a piece of land granted by a lord to a vassal during the feudal system in exchange for loyalty and services. It perfectly aligns with the clue "Land granted to a vassal," describing this specific medieval feudal arrangement.
50Circus performerTAMER?????✨ See Why
The answer "TAMER" fits because it refers to an animal tamer, a classic circus performer who trains and controls wild animals, such as lions or tigers, during acts. The clue straightforwardly points to a key role in circus performances.
52Discovered unexpectedlyLITON?????✨ See Why
The answer LITON is derived from the phrase "lit on," meaning to stumble upon or discover something by chance. It matches "Discovered unexpectedly" as it conveys the act of coming across something unintentionally or surprisingly. The phrasing reflects this idiomatic expression.
54Rely on audience support during a show?STAGEDIVE?????????✨ See Why
The clue's question mark signals wordplay. "Rely on audience support" metaphorically describes a performer diving off the stage into the audience, trusting them to catch and hold them up – a stage dive. This literal reliance on audience support during a show makes STAGEDIVE the fitting, punny solution.
56Author whose name sounds like a canineWOOLF?????✨ See Why
The answer is WOOLF, referring to Virginia Woolf, the renowned author. The clue uses wordplay: "Woolf" phonetically resembles "wolf," which is a canine. This clever pun connects her surname to the clue's hint about a "canine."
57Do the impossibleMAKEMAGIC?????????✨ See Why
The clue "Do the impossible?" signals wordplay. Achieving the impossible often feels like "magic," which aligns with the phrase "make magic." To "make magic" metaphorically means pulling off extraordinary or seemingly impossible feats, perfectly fitting the clue.
58Flynn of old HollywoodERROL?????✨ See Why
The answer is ERROL because Errol Flynn was a famous actor from Hollywood's Golden Age, known for his swashbuckling roles in classic films like The Adventures of Robin Hood (1938). "Flynn of old Hollywood" directly references his prominence in that era.
59Eye shadow for a night out?SLEEPMASK?????????✨ See Why
The clue "Eye shadow for a night out?" is a pun. A SLEEPMASK, placed over the eyes to block light, literally "shadows" the eyes during sleep, often "a night out" of action. The playful wordplay ties "eye shadow" to something used at night but in a different sense.
Down
1Dickens's DroodEDWIN?????✨ See Why
The answer is EDWIN because "The Mystery of Edwin Drood" is an unfinished novel by Charles Dickens. The title character, Edwin Drood, is central to the plot. The clue directly references the character's name, making EDWIN the correct solution.
2___ boatGRAVY?????✨ See Why
The clue "___ boat" refers to a common phrase "gravy boat," which is a dish used to serve gravy during meals. The pun-like simplicity of the clue leads to GRAVY as the fitting answer.
3Bottled spiritGENIE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Bottled spirit" uses wordplay. A GENIE is a mythical spirit traditionally depicted as being trapped in a bottle (or lamp). When released, it grants wishes. The term "spirit" cleverly refers to both a supernatural being and the "bottled" container it inhabits.
4Word before mail or watchHATE????✨ See Why
The answer is HATE because "hate mail" refers to abusive or hostile messages and "hate watch" describes watching something disliked but entertaining in some way. Both phrases are common expressions where "hate" precedes "mail" or "watch."
5Ones trained to administer naloxone, for shortEMTS????✨ See Why
EMTs, or Emergency Medical Technicians, are first responders trained to handle medical emergencies, including opioid overdoses. Naloxone is a medication used to reverse opioid overdoses, and EMTs are equipped and trained to administer it effectively in critical situations. The clue specifies "for short," indicating the abbreviation "EMTS."
6Actress and comedian EdebiriAYO???✨ See Why
The answer is AYO because Ayo Edebiri is a well-known actress and comedian recognized for her work in TV shows like The Bear and her stand-up comedy. The clue directly references her as a public figure, and "Ayo" is her first name.
7Connections puzzle?DOTTODOT????????✨ See Why
The clue "Connections puzzle?" includes a pun, indicated by the question mark. A "Dot-to-dot" puzzle involves connecting numbered dots to reveal a picture, aligning with the idea of making "connections." The playful phrasing ties the literal puzzle type to the word "connections."
8Creature in the National Audubon Society logoEGRET?????✨ See Why
The National Audubon Society, dedicated to bird conservation, uses a Great Egret as its logo. Egrets are elegant, long-legged birds often associated with wetland habitats, making them a fitting symbol for the organization’s mission to protect birds and their environments. Hence, the clue's answer is EGRET.
9Destination for dermaplaningDAYSPA??????✨ See Why
Dermaplaning is a skincare treatment often offered at a DAY SPA. The clue "Destination for dermaplaning" refers to a location where such services are typically provided, making DAYSPA the correct answer. It’s a straightforward, literal clue with no wordplay involved.
10ReliefAID???✨ See Why
The answer "AID" fits the clue "Relief" because "AID" means help or assistance, which directly relates to providing relief in times of need or difficulty. The clue is straightforward and does not involve wordplay, making "AID" a fitting synonym for "Relief."
11Eat (at)GNAW????✨ See Why
The clue "Eat (at)" uses wordplay. "Gnaw" means to chew persistently, often on something tough, resembling "eating at" something physically. Additionally, "eat at" can metaphorically mean to bother or irritate, and "gnaw" also describes a lingering annoyance (e.g., "it gnaws at you"), fitting both interpretations.
12Night owl, typicallyLATERISER?????????✨ See Why
The clue "Night owl, typically" refers to someone who stays up late. A "lateriser" is wordplay combining "late" (staying up late at night) and "riser" (waking up later as a result). This fits the description of a "night owl." The pun makes the answer clever and apt!
13Short product overview, in business lingoONEPAGER????????✨ See Why
The clue "Short product overview, in business lingo" directly points to the succinct summary often used in professional settings called a "ONE PAGER." In business, a "one-pager" is a single-page document summarizing key aspects of a product, service, or proposal, aligning perfectly with the clue's definition.
14Theater district where "The Mousetrap" has been playing continuously since 1952WESTEND???????✨ See Why
The West End is London's famous theater district, renowned for long-running productions. "The Mousetrap," a play by Agatha Christie, has been performed there since 1952, making it the world's longest-running play. The clue directly refers to this iconic area's association with theater.
21Hard pass?HAILMARY????????✨ See Why
The clue "Hard pass?" uses a pun. A "Hail Mary" is a desperate, long-distance pass in football, typically made in a challenging situation, making it a "hard pass." The question mark emphasizes the play on words, linking the sports term with the idea of difficulty.
24Where an athlete has an advantageHOMETURF????????✨ See Why
The clue "Where an athlete has an advantage" refers to the concept of a "home advantage," where athletes perform better on their home ground, familiar with the surroundings and crowd support. "Hometurf" is a fitting term describing their own area's ground, making it the correct answer.
25They're grated outdoorsDRAINS??????✨ See Why
The clue "They're grated outdoors" hints at something with grates found outside. DRAINS often have grated covers to allow water to flow through while preventing debris. These are commonly seen on streets or sidewalks, fitting the description perfectly. The wordplay lies in "grated" referring to the grates.
27Traditional treat in Japanese New Year celebrationsMOCHI?????✨ See Why
The answer is MOCHI because it is a traditional Japanese rice cake often enjoyed during New Year celebrations. Made by pounding glutinous rice, mochi is a symbol of prosperity and good fortune in Japanese culture, particularly associated with the traditions of the New Year.
28Artery access pointONRAMP??????✨ See Why
The term "Artery" here is a play on words, referring not to a blood artery but a highway, often called a traffic artery. An "access point" to a highway is an ONRAMP, where vehicles enter. The pun in the clue connects the answer to roadways instead of anatomy.
30TearSPREE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Tear" plays on its meaning as a wild or unchecked activity, akin to a rampage or binge. A "SPREE" aligns with this interpretation, referring to an energetic, often excessive bout of activity – such as shopping, partying, or another indulgence. It's a figurative match to "Tear."
31Words on a statue honoring WashingtonBESTACTOR?????????✨ See Why
The clue uses wordplay. "Washington" here doesn't refer to the historical figure but Denzel Washington, a celebrated actor. A statue honoring him might say "Best Actor," referencing his multiple award wins, including two Academy Awards. The pun connects Washington (the actor) and his accolades.
32Soft-topped capTAM???✨ See Why
The answer "TAM" refers to a "Tam o' Shanter," a traditional Scottish cap often made of wool with a soft, rounded crown and a pompom on top. Its soft, flat, and rounded design aligns perfectly with the clue "Soft-topped cap."
34Lake ___, setting for "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald"SUPERIOR????????✨ See Why
The answer is SUPERIOR because "The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald," a famous song by Gordon Lightfoot, narrates the sinking of the ship on Lake Superior. It’s one of North America's Great Lakes, fitting the "Lake ___" clue perfectly.
35Convincing A.I.-created videoDEEPFAKE????????✨ See Why
The answer "DEEPFAKE" fits because it refers to a highly convincing, A.I.-generated video where someone's face or voice is manipulated to appear real. This aligns perfectly with the clue, highlighting the advanced, realistic nature of such A.I.-created media.
36Pronoun also known as pluralis majestatisROYALWE???????✨ See Why
The "pluralis majestatis," or "royal we," is a pronoun historically used by monarchs or high-ranking figures to refer to themselves in plural (e.g., "We are not amused"). ROYALWE perfectly fits as the term directly describes this formal, majestic pronoun usage.
39Shakes, but not sundaesSEISMS??????✨ See Why
The clue "Shakes, but not sundaes" uses wordplay, implying the answer isn't literal. "Shakes" refers to tremors caused by seismic activity, like earthquakes (SEISMS). It's not related to milkshakes (as in sundaes). Thus, SEISMS fits as it refers to earth "shakes," not dessert treats.
43Something picked in a fortunetelling gamePETAL?????✨ See Why
The answer is PETAL because it refers to the game "He loves me, he loves me not," where a flower's petals are picked one by one to determine feelings or fortune. This aligns with the fortunetelling theme in the clue.
44Early home computer brandAMIGA?????✨ See Why
AMIGA is the solution because it was an early home computer brand developed by Commodore and released in 1985. Known for its advanced graphics and sound capabilities, it was highly popular for gaming and multimedia during the late '80s and early '90s, fitting the "early" computer brand clue.
45"Forgotten spot in the Caribbean," per "Hamilton"NEVIS?????✨ See Why
NEVIS is the birthplace of Alexander Hamilton, a key figure in American history whose life inspired the musical Hamilton. The clue refers to his origins being a "forgotten spot in the Caribbean," as mentioned in the lyrics of the musical's opening number.
46JunkDRECK?????✨ See Why
The clue "Junk" directly aligns with the informal meaning of "dreck," which refers to trash, rubbish, or something of poor quality. Both terms are synonymous in describing something worthless or undesirable, making DRECK the perfect answer.
48How Joshua Slocum sailed around the world starting in 1895, becoming the first person to do soSOLO????✨ See Why
The answer "SOLO" fits because Joshua Slocum famously sailed completely alone around the world. The clue references this historic solo voyage starting in 1895, emphasizing his status as the first person to achieve this feat without any crew, perfectly aligning with the definition of "solo."
50Ski resort worker, oftenTEMP????✨ See Why
The answer "TEMP" fits because ski resorts often hire temporary workers (abbreviated as "TEMP") during the busy winter season. These roles are usually seasonal, aligning with the limited duration of peak skiing periods, making TEMP an apt shorthand for such workers.
51"East of Eden" roleADAM????✨ See Why
In John Steinbeck's novel East of Eden, ADAM Trask is a central character. The story follows his life, struggles, and family dynamics, making ADAM a key role in the narrative. The clue references his prominent character from this classic work.
53Bills' org.NFL???✨ See Why
The clue "Bills' org." refers to the Buffalo Bills, a professional football team. Their organization is part of the NFL (National Football League), which is the governing body for professional football teams in the United States. The team name "Bills" cleverly hints at the NFL connection.
55"Golly!"GEE???✨ See Why
The clue "Golly!" is enclosed in quotes, signaling it is an expression or exclamation. "GEE" is a colloquial expression of surprise or amazement, synonymous with "Golly!" Both phrases are often used interchangeably in casual speech, making GEE the correct answer.
Solving today’s NYT The Crossword Puzzle and stuck on the 4-letter answer to the Emily ___, winner of the 2024 Hugo Award for Best Novel clue? Don’t worry—Lady Puzzle Pro is here to help! Whether you need the answer right away, want to reveal it letter by letter, or just can’t figure out a tricky clue, we’ve got you. You can even solve the whole Crossword puzzle of the day right here!
Emily ___, winner of the 2024 Hugo Award for Best Novel Answer Explained
The answer is TESH.
This is a name-based clue, asking for “Emily blank.” If you're up on recent sci-fi and fantasy awards, you’ll know Emily Tesh won the 2024 Hugo for Best Novel. Even if you didn’t know that off the bat, the crossword-savvy solver may try filling in “blank” with familiar four-letter surnames and checking crossings. TESH is also a relatively uncommon name, but it might ring a bell from the author’s previous work or critical praise. It’s a clue that rewards contemporary literary knowledge.
Now that you've cracked the 20A Emily ___, winner of the 2024 Hugo Award for Best Novel clue, you're one step closer to completing today’s Mini Puzzle! If you're still stuck on other clues, don't worry—we've got you covered. Explore more NYT Crossword answers right here, or check out our tools for solving the NYT The Mini, Connections, or Strands.
Today’s NYT The Crossword Highlights
This Saturday puzzle from Sarah Sinclair and Rafael Musa offers a smoother ride than typical end-of-week grids. While it’s themeless, the clean construction with three long Across stackers in the corners makes for elegant solving. Entries like EGGHEADED, SECRETADMIRER, and STAGEDIVE provide satisfying a-ha moments without being overly tricky. The cluing leans playful, especially with clues like “Eye shadow for a night out?” for SLEEPMASK. Crossword staples are kept fresh, and contemporary touches like AYO and DOTTODOT keep it current. All in all, a friendly Saturday grid that manages to feel smart and accessible at the same time.
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Fill the white squares with letters to form words or phrases that cross each other by solving clues in the Across and Down columns. The puzzles increase in difficulty from Monday to Saturday, with the Sunday puzzle being similar in difficulty to Wednesday or Thursday but larger in size.
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