___ Crown Theater (downtown Chicago landmark) - NYT The Crossword Clue

The phrase "Amps up" means to increase energy, excitement, or enthusiasm—essentially invigorating someone or something. It aligns perfectly with the clue "Invigorates," as both imply boosting energy or liveliness. The colloquial and dynamic nature of the phrase reflects the clue's intent.

The answer is TORINO because Juventus, one of Italy's most famous soccer clubs, is based in the city of Torino (Turin in English). Torino is in northern Italy and is home to the club's stadium, Allianz Stadium, making it their "home." This straightforward clue refers to geographic context.

The phrase "Fighting (with)" can imply being in conflict or disagreement with someone or something. "At odds" is a common expression meaning in disagreement or contention, which fits perfectly as the answer to this clue.

The quote in the clue is from Shakespeare's play Romeo and Juliet. This line is spoken by Romeo as he prepares to take poison obtained from an apothecary, mourning Juliet because he believes she is dead. Thus, the fictional character is Romeo.

The IRIS is a mechanism in cameras that adjusts the size of the aperture, controlling the amount of light entering the lens. This is analogous to the iris in the human eye, which regulates light entering the pupil. Hence, IRIS fits perfectly as the answer.

The answer "GPS" fits the clue "Dashboard device, in brief" because GPS (Global Positioning System) is a common navigation device found in car dashboards. The phrase "in brief" signals the use of an abbreviation, making GPS a concise and accurate solution.

The solution "ALE" fits the clue "Tavern offering" because ale is a type of beer commonly served in taverns and pubs. This clue plays on the association between taverns and their classic alcoholic drink offerings, of which ale is a traditional and popular choice.

The clue "High school reunion topic" suggests something commonly discussed at such events. At reunions, attendees often reminisce about the past, sharing stories and experiences from their school years. "MEMORIES" precisely captures this nostalgic exchange, fitting the social and reflective nature of the occasion.

The clue "Spent" can mean "used up" or "exhausted." The word EXERTED fits because it describes the act of using effort or energy, leading to being spent or tired. For example, someone who "exerted" themselves has expended energy, aligning with the clue's meaning.

The answer "IMMIX" works for "Amalgamate" because "immix" literally means to blend, combine, or mix together, aligning perfectly with the clue's meaning. It’s a less commonly used synonym, but still precise in describing the process of merging or uniting substances or concepts.

The clue "Uninteresting game, perhaps" suggests a one-sided, predictable outcome. "ROUT" refers to a decisive, overwhelming victory, where one side dominates—making the game dull or lacking suspense. The question mark indicates a pun or metaphor, highlighting how such a game might be "uninteresting."

The answer is "ITS" because it’s a word often confused with "IT’S" (a contraction for "it is" or "it has"). "ITS" is the possessive form, indicating ownership, and doesn’t require an apostrophe. This frequent mix-up makes "ITS" fit the clue perfectly.

The term "SHINNED" refers to climbing by gripping with the arms and legs, particularly using the shins for upward movement. This aligns with the clue "Climbed, as a rope," as it describes a method often used to ascend ropes by wrapping and pulling with the legs and arms.

The answer is HECATE because she is a Greek goddess associated with magic, witchcraft, and the night. Often depicted holding torches symbolizing guidance and serpents representing rebirth or power, these iconic attributes align directly with the clue's description.

The clue points to someone responsible for making choices or decisions, like in a nominating committee. A "selector" is someone who picks or chooses candidates, fitting perfectly as the role performed on such committees. The word "say" implies a general example, matching "selector."

The phrase "Goes nowhere in particular" describes aimless or unplanned movement, which aligns with the definition of "WANDERS." To wander means to move about without a fixed course or destination, perfectly matching the clue's meaning.

In Greek mythology, Psyche is the mortal woman who falls in love with Eros, the god of love (also known as Cupid in Roman mythology). They are romantically linked, making EROS the fitting answer to "Psyche's partner."

The answer "ETTU" refers to the famous accusatory phrase "Et tu, Brute?" from Shakespeare's Julius Caesar. In the play, Caesar says these words to his friend Brutus upon realizing Brutus has betrayed him. The clue hints at accusatory language, making "ETTU" the fitting solution.

The clue "Well ___" suggests a conversational or exclamatory phrase. "Well, THEN" is a common expression used to indicate a conclusion or reaction to information, fitting the blank seamlessly. Additionally, its informal tone aligns with the conversational style implied by the clue.

RAKI is a traditional Turkish anise-flavored alcoholic drink, often referred to as "lion's milk" due to its milky appearance when mixed with water. The clue specifies "twice-distilled," which accurately describes raki's production process, making it the correct answer.

The clue "Item in a hedge" uses wordplay. A "hedge" can mean a cautious or protective measure, like in finances. A BET is a risk or investment often hedged to minimize loss, fitting the figurative use of "hedge." Thus, BET is the solution.

The clue "Lass" is a common term for a young girl or woman, particularly used in Irish or Scottish contexts. "Colleen" is an Irish term meaning "girl" or "young woman," aligning with the clue's definition. The cultural hint ties "lass" to Ireland, leading to COLLEEN as the answer.

The clue "Semicircular?" with a question mark indicates a playful or non-literal meaning. "Ovoid" describes an oval or egg-like shape, which is not perfectly circular but includes curved, semicircular-like edges. The pun lies in "semi" referring to the partial resemblance to circular shapes.

The phrase "With style" suggests doing something in a refined, graceful, or polished manner. The word "ELEGANTLY" directly aligns with this definition, meaning to act or appear with sophistication and class—perfectly matching the clue's meaning.

The answer "SOUPSON" is derived from the French word "soupçon," meaning a tiny amount or trace, often of something flavorful. The clue "Let's eat!" is a playful nod, suggesting a trace of soup ("soupçon") as a connotation of food, aligning with the pun-like nature of the clue.

The answer is KENTSTATE because Kent State University, located in Ohio, is well-known for its sports teams' nickname, the Golden Flashes. This nickname is associated with the university's athletic teams, making it the precise fit for this clue.

The word "itinerant" directly means traveling from place to place, particularly for work or temporary stays. Its root, "itiner-" relates to "journey" or "travel." This matches the clue perfectly, making it the apt solution.

The clue "Shopgirl in a Paris boutique" hints at a French term, as it references Paris. MIDINETTE is a French word historically used to describe young working-class women, particularly seamstresses or shopgirls, often employed in Parisian fashion houses and boutiques. Hence, it fits perfectly.

The clue "Freezes" is metaphorical here. "Stops dead" describes something suddenly coming to a complete stop, much like freezing in motion. This fits the clue perfectly, as it conveys the idea of halting abruptly, akin to the way "freezing" can be used to describe pausing entirely.

The clue references scientific nomenclature. "Homo sapiens" is the species name for modern humans, while "Homo neanderthalensis" identifies Neanderthals. Both share the genus "Homo," with "sapiens" used here to complete the classification, connecting modern humans and their evolutionary counterparts.

The answer "HANKERING" means a strong desire or craving, which directly aligns with the clue "Strong urge." It's an evocative word often used to describe an intense longing, making it a precise fit for this straightforward clue.

The clue "Cough up" uses a figurative meaning rather than the literal one. To "cough up" is a slang term meaning to reluctantly hand over or give money. The answer "PAY" fits because it involves giving money, often under pressure or obligation.

The answer "SWISSROLL" fits because it's a type of sponge cake that is rolled with a filling, such as jam or cream, creating a distinctive swirl pattern visible when sliced. The swirl is iconic, making this cake perfectly aligned with the clue's description.

The phrase "Casual and not meant to be taken seriously, as a remark" describes something offhand or insignificant. A "THROWAWAY" remark is exactly that—an informal comment not intended to hold much weight, aligning perfectly with the clue's phrasing.

The spinal cord is surrounded by three protective membranes, collectively called meninges: dura mater, arachnoid mater, and pia mater. "Pia maters" refers to the delicate innermost layer that directly adheres to the spinal cord, fitting the clue "Spinal cord membranes." The plural form matches the clue's wording.

The clue "Shade akin to pumpkin" refers to a color similar to the orange tone of a pumpkin. TANGERINE, like the fruit, is a shade of orange, very close to the hue of a pumpkin. It perfectly fits the description of a similar vibrant, warm tone.

The answer "FAWN" works because to fawn means to show exaggerated flattery or affection, often in a cringey or obsequious way, as a way to "court favor." The clue's use of "cringey" highlights the overly flattering, and thus awkward, connotation of this behavior.

The clue "Beasts with enormous tusks" refers directly to MASTODONS, now-extinct elephant-like mammals with large, curved tusks. The word "beasts" points to large animals, and "enormous tusks" specifically describes this prehistoric species. This is a straightforward definition clue based on their well-known physical traits.

The answer "ROIL" fits the clue "Shake up" as it means to agitate or disturb, especially in a turbulent or chaotic way. This perfectly aligns with the idea of shaking or disrupting, making "ROIL" an apt synonym for the clue.

The phrase "Show warmth to" implies a friendly or kind gesture. SMILE AT fits as it describes the act of smiling at someone, a nonverbal and warm form of communication. Smiling is universally seen as a way to express warmth and positive emotion toward others.

The answer "HIFI" refers to "high fidelity," a term associated with superior sound quality, which is essential for professional recording studios. Recording studio equipment ensures accurate reproduction of audio, aligning with the high standards of HIFI sound systems. Thus, "Like recording studio equipment" aptly describes HIFI.

The word "Plague" in this clue is used as a verb, meaning to cause suffering, distress, or trouble. "AFFLICT" is synonymous with this usage, as it means to cause pain or distress to someone or something. Thus, AFFLICT matches the clue's intent.

The clue "Take in" can be interpreted as "receive" or "collect," which aligns with the meaning of "EARN." To "earn" something is to take in income, wages, or other rewards through effort or work. This straightforward definition makes EARN a fitting solution!

The clue "Archer's gift" refers to a skill or talent an archer possesses. An archer's key ability is to hit targets accurately, which requires good aim. Thus, "GOODAIM" is the solution, as it directly signifies the valuable skill or "gift" of precision essential for an archer's success.

The answer "POX" refers to an archaic curse or expression of ill will, like “A pox upon you!” Historically, "pox" meant a disease, particularly smallpox or other plagues. It was used metaphorically as a curse. Its old usage aligns with the clue "Old curse word."

The answer is PEDRO because it refers to Pedro Pascal, a renowned actor known for his roles in "The Mandalorian" and "The Last of Us." He is cast in the upcoming "Gladiator II," making him the correct choice for this clue.

The clue "What provides the big picture?" uses a playful, metaphorical phrasing. An ENLARGER is a tool used in photography to project and enlarge negatives, literally providing a "big picture." The wordplay ties the literal function of an enlarger to the figurative meaning of gaining a broader perspective.

The clue "Noon or 6:00 p.m., for some" hints at times commonly associated with meals. Noon is often the time for lunch, and 6:00 p.m. is a typical dinner time. The phrase "for some" acknowledges variation, suggesting these are MEALTIME options for many.

The answer "YOLANDA" refers to Yolanda Hadid, a former reality TV star famous for appearing on The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. She is also the mother of supermodels Gigi and Bella Hadid, further linking her to the Hadid family name in the clue.

The idiom "sow one's wild oats" refers to youthful indulgence or reckless behavior before settling down. "Something sown" cleverly hints at "wild oat," aligning with the phrase. It's wordplay on literal sowing (planting seeds) and the figurative idiom meaning, making WILDOAT the fitting solution.

The clue "Macho stereotype" refers to traditional, exaggerated ideals of masculinity, such as toughness, strength, and emotional suppression. "REALMAN" aligns with this stereotype, as the term is often used to imply someone who embodies conventional "manly" traits, fitting the concept of a "macho" individual.

The clue "Goes in and out" refers to a motion that alternates or moves back and forth, like threading or maneuvering through something. "WEAVES" captures this idea, as weaving involves a similar repetitive in-and-out motion, such as weaving fabric or navigating through traffic.

The answer is WHO because it fits idiomatic phrases like "Who knows?" and "Who cares?" Both expressions are commonly used to express uncertainty or indifference, respectively, making "Who" a perfect "word before knows or cares."

In chess, a "gambit" is a type of opening strategy where a player sacrifices a piece, usually a pawn, to gain an advantage in position or development. This aligns perfectly with the clue "Chess opening," as GAMBIT specifically refers to an opening move strategy in the game.

The clue "Dime store?" uses wordplay with a question mark, indicating a pun. The U.S. Mint (USMINT) is where dimes, along with other coins, are produced—essentially "storing" them before distribution. So, the "store" here refers to the production and storage of dimes at the U.S. Mint.

The clue "In need of a haircut, say" hints at someone with long, untidy, or overgrown hair. "Say" suggests this is a descriptive term, not literal. The word "shaggy" describes someone with unkempt, messy hair, fitting the context perfectly. Thus, SHAGGY is the correct answer.

A limerick is a specific form of humorous or whimsical short verse, fitting within the broader category of written compositions known as poems. The clue "Limerick, e.g." asks for a general term describing what a limerick is, making the answer "POEM" correct.

The term "SMART" is often associated with advanced technology (e.g., smart devices like phones, TVs, or homes). "Tricked out with the latest technology" suggests modern, cutting-edge upgrades, aligning with the concept of being "smart" due to its high-tech features.

MARTA is the correct answer because she is a legendary Brazilian soccer player known for her exceptional skills and achievements. She has won the FIFA World Player of the Year award six times, the most by any player, and is widely recognized by just her first name, aligning with the "one-named" clue.

The clue "Body building?" includes a question mark, hinting at wordplay. Here, "Body" refers to a dead body, and "building" suggests a structure. A TOMB is a structure specifically built to house a deceased body, making it a clever wordplay-based solution.

The answer "RASH" fits "Acting without thinking" as it describes impulsive or reckless behavior, often done without careful consideration. "Rash" is commonly used to characterize hasty actions or decisions, aligning perfectly with the clue. It emphasizes acting too quickly and carelessly.

The answer is SKOR because it’s a candy brand known for its chocolate-covered toffee bar. Its logo features a distinct crown above the "S" as part of the design, making it fit perfectly with the clue mentioning a crown in the logo.

The clue "See 89-Down" means you need to check the full clue at 89-Down for context. If 89-Down involves something related to genetics, heredity, or a famous person named Gene, the answer is GENE. It’s a common term for a unit of heredity or a first name.

The clue "87-Down makeup" refers to the genetic composition or biological "makeup" of an organism. DNA (Deoxyribonucleic Acid) is the molecule that carries genetic instructions and determines the "makeup" of living beings. This scientific term aligns perfectly with the clue's reference to biological structure.

The answer "SOD" fits the clue because sod refers to pre-cut grass and soil that is commonly rolled up for transportation and installation. In backyards, sod is literally "rolled out" as a quick way to establish a lawn, making the clue a straightforward reference.

In Jacques-Louis David's painting "The Death of Marat," the revolutionary leader Jean-Paul Marat is depicted in his bathtub, where he was murdered while soaking due to a skin condition. Therefore, the setting of the painting is a TUB.