The clue "Short shorts" is a playful reference to very short, tight-fitting shorts, commonly known as "HOTPANTS." It’s a straightforward definition with a touch of wordplay, as the term directly describes the item of clothing while emphasizing their minimal length.
9Walk with attitudeSASHAY??????✨ See Why
The word "SASHAY" means to walk in a confident, flamboyant, or exaggerated manner, often to draw attention, which aligns perfectly with the phrase "Walk with attitude." This clue highlights the expressive, stylish movement that defines a sashay.
15Light shower?APERTURE????????✨ See Why
The clue "Light shower?" uses a pun. "Light" refers to photography or illumination, and "shower" suggests something that lets light through. An APERTURE is the opening in a camera lens that allows light to enter and "shower" the film or sensor, capturing an image.
16Product whose slogans have included "Say hello to the future" and "Welcome to the big screens"IPHONE??????✨ See Why
The answer is IPHONE because these slogans have been used by Apple to promote its flagship product, the iPhone. "Say hello to the future" highlights its innovative technology, while "Welcome to the big screens" aligns with the introduction of larger displays in the iPhone lineup, such as the iPhone 6 Plus.
17Aquatic eater of shellfishSEAOTTER????????✨ See Why
The answer "SEAOTTER" fits because sea otters are marine mammals known for feeding on shellfish like clams, crabs, and mussels. They are aquatic creatures that use tools, such as rocks, to crack open shells, making them an ideal match for this clue.
18Requirement for a triple playNOOUTS??????✨ See Why
A triple play requires three consecutive outs in a single play. For this to happen, there must initially be no outs in the inning. If there were already outs, completing a triple play wouldn’t be possible. Thus, "NOOUTS" is the logical condition needed for this rare baseball feat.
19They may be graphicARTS????✨ See Why
The clue "They may be graphic" implies a connection to something visual or creative. "Graphic" relates to visual arts or design. The term "arts" broadly encompasses creative fields, including graphic arts (like design, illustration, or animation). Thus, ARTS fits as the solution to this clue.
20Becomes pendulous, saySAGS????✨ See Why
The term "pendulous" describes something hanging down loosely or drooping. "SAGS" means to droop or sink downward due to weight, age, or lack of support. This aligns with "Becomes pendulous" as a description of something sagging or drooping over time.
22Impersonate, with "as"POSE????✨ See Why
The answer "POSE" fits because to impersonate someone "as" them can mean to present yourself in a certain way or to adopt their mannerisms, which is akin to striking a "pose" as that person. The word captures the act of imitating or assuming appearance or behavior.
23Shocker of sortsTASER?????✨ See Why
The clue "Shocker of sorts?" includes a pun signaled by the question mark. A TASER is a device that delivers an electric shock to immobilize someone, making it literally a "shocker." The phrase "of sorts" hints at an example or type, aligning perfectly with this answer.
25Apple fieldTECH????✨ See Why
The clue "Apple field" employs wordplay. It doesn’t refer to literal apple orchards but to Apple's industry focus—technology. Apple is a major tech company, making "TECH" the solution. The word "field" hints at a domain or area of expertise, which for Apple is technology.
27Most desirable candidates in the dating pool, slangilyTENS????✨ See Why
The answer "TENS" refers to the slang term used to rate desirability or attractiveness on a scale of 1 to 10, with a "10" representing the highest level. In the context of dating, "TENS" signifies the most ideal or attractive candidates. The word "slangily" hints at informal language.
29Add some fluff to, as an essayPAD???✨ See Why
"PAD" is the answer because to "add some fluff" to an essay often means to include unnecessary words or filler to lengthen it. Similarly, "pad" refers to extending content by adding extra material without substantial value, aligning perfectly with the clue's intent.
31It's cut and driedHAY???✨ See Why
The clue "It's cut and dried" refers to the process of making hay. Grass is cut and left to dry in the sun to produce hay, commonly used as animal feed. The phrase is also a wordplay hint connecting directly to this agricultural practice. The answer is HAY.
33"Messenger" in biology classRNA???✨ See Why
In biology, RNA (Ribonucleic Acid) is often referred to as the "messenger" because messenger RNA (mRNA) carries genetic information from DNA to ribosomes, where proteins are synthesized. The clue’s use of “Messenger” directly points to RNA’s role in this essential cellular process.
34Ultimately succeedsCOMESOUTAHEAD?????????????✨ See Why
The phrase "COMES OUT AHEAD" means to ultimately succeed or triumph, often in a competitive or challenging situation. It directly aligns with the clue, as "Ultimately succeeds" indicates achieving success or coming out on top in the end.
38Runs wild, in gamer-speakGOESBEASTMODE?????????????✨ See Why
The phrase "GOES BEAST MODE" is gamer slang for performing exceptionally well or chaotically in a game, often with intense aggression or skill. "Runs wild" matches the sense of unleashing unrestrained energy, making this phrase the perfect fit given the clue's gaming context.
39Cocktails that might make for poor nightcapsWHITERUSSIANS?????????????✨ See Why
The clue uses a pun with "nightcaps." White Russians are cocktails made with vodka, coffee liqueur, and cream, which are rich and heavy—possibly making them unsuitable as a light drink before bed. The answer plays on the idea of both the drink and its "poor nightcap" qualities.
40Sugar substitute?HON???✨ See Why
The clue "Sugar substitute?" uses a question mark, indicating wordplay. "Sugar" is a term of endearment, like "honey." A substitute for "sugar" in this context is "HON," short for "honey," another affectionate term commonly used. Thus, HON cleverly fits as the answer.
41"Dear ___"SIR???✨ See Why
The clue "Dear ___" suggests a formal salutation in written correspondence. "Sir" is commonly used as a respectful address in letters, especially in professional or formal contexts, making it the appropriate answer. The blank after "Dear" signals the need for a title or honorific, fitting "Sir" perfectly.
42Soup served with sriracha, maybePHO???✨ See Why
The answer is PHO because it is a traditional Vietnamese soup often served with garnishes like sriracha for added spice. The word "maybe" in the clue suggests it’s an option for a soup served with sriracha, fitting how PHO can be customized with condiments.
43Nile nastiesASPS????✨ See Why
The clue "Nile nasties" refers to venomous creatures found in the Nile region. ASPS are venomous snakes commonly associated with ancient Egypt and the Nile River. "Nasties" suggests something dangerous or unpleasant, making ASPS—symbols of peril in Egyptian lore—a fitting answer to the clue.
45MarinerSALT????✨ See Why
The answer "SALT" for "Mariner" plays on the informal term "old salt," which refers to an experienced sailor or mariner. This connection captures the nautical expertise associated with the clue. The wordplay hinges on this sailor slang.
48Like many a security guardARMED?????✨ See Why
The clue "Like many a security guard" fits the answer ARMED because many security guards carry weapons (are "armed") to ensure safety and protection. The word directly describes their readiness and ability to handle threats if needed, aligning clearly with the clue's context.
52Fold (under)TUCK????✨ See Why
The answer "TUCK" fits the clue "Fold (under)" because to "tuck" something, like fabric or a corner, means to fold or push it under something else to create a neat, concealed arrangement. This matches the definition of "folding under" directly.
54Labor awayTOIL????✨ See Why
The clue "Labor away" straightforwardly suggests hard, continuous work, which is exactly the definition of "TOIL." Both words emphasize sustained effort or physical labor, making "TOIL" a fitting synonym and solution. No tricks or wordplay is involved in this clue.
56___ Bush, Black Lives Matter activist who served in CongressCORI????✨ See Why
The answer is CORI because Cori Bush is a prominent Black Lives Matter activist and U.S. Congresswoman representing Missouri's 1st Congressional District since 2021. She is well-known for her activism and political impact, making her the fitting solution to this clue.
57CopyMIRROR??????✨ See Why
The answer "MIRROR" fits because a mirror reflects an exact "copy" of whatever is in front of it. This clue utilizes wordplay, where "Copy" metaphorically refers to the act of mirroring or duplicating an image, making MIRROR the apt solution.
59Majorly successful business start-ups UNICORNS????????✨ See Why
The term "unicorns" in business refers to privately-owned start-ups that reach a valuation of $1 billion or more, symbolizing their rare and major success. The clue uses wordplay to liken the rarity of such companies to the mythical creature, a unicorn. Hence, it fits perfectly.
61"Totally sick!"INSANE??????✨ See Why
The clue "Totally sick!" includes a question mark, indicating wordplay or a pun. Here, "sick" isn't literal; it's slang for something extreme or unbelievable. "INSANE" is a fitting slang synonym, often used to describe something wildly cool or extraordinary, aligning perfectly with the playful tone of the clue.
62Where an airport traveler might seek assistanceINFODESK????????✨ See Why
The clue asks where an airport traveler might seek assistance. An "INFO DESK" (information desk) is a central place in airports where travelers get help with directions, flight details, or issues. The straightforward phrasing makes it a logical fit for this answer.
63Feature of a May-December romanceAGEGAP??????✨ See Why
"May-December romance" refers to a relationship with a significant age difference, where one partner is much older (December) and the other younger (May). This age disparity is the distinguishing "feature," making AGEGAP the perfect fit for the clue.
64Many of these begin with "E"EYETESTS????????✨ See Why
The solution is EYETESTS because many types of eye tests, like the Eye Chart Test, Eye Pressure Test, or Eye Movement Test, start with the letter "E." The clue uses wordplay to hint at this initial letter connection, making EYETESTS the fitting answer.
Down
1Goes afterHASAT?????✨ See Why
The phrase "Goes after" can mean to pursue or take aim at something. In this context, "HAS AT" fits well as it’s an idiomatic expression meaning to attack, criticize, or go after someone or something. The verb phrasing matches the clue directly.
2___ cake, dessert with layers of sponge, buttercream and ganacheOPERA?????✨ See Why
The answer is OPERA because "Opera cake" is a classic French dessert known for its elegant layers of almond sponge cake, coffee buttercream, and chocolate ganache. The clue describes these layers, directly referencing this dessert by name.
3Milk sourcesTEATS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Milk sources" refers to where milk comes from on mammals. TEATS are the external parts of the mammary glands through which milk is delivered during nursing. This fits the definition perfectly as a direct, literal answer to the clue.
4Gertrude Stein, for onePROSEPOET?????????✨ See Why
Gertrude Stein, an influential modernist writer, is known for her experimental works blending prose and poetry, often defying traditional forms. The term "PROSEPOET" aptly describes this unique style, where prose takes on poetic qualities. The clue refers to her innovative contributions to literature, making PROSEPOET the fitting answer.
5One who might have an objection: Abbr.ATT???✨ See Why
The answer "ATT" refers to "Attorney," commonly abbreviated as such. An attorney often raises objections in legal settings, such as during court proceedings, making this abbreviation a fitting answer to the clue "One who might have an objection: Abbr."
6"Drat!"NUTS????✨ See Why
The clue "Drat!" is enclosed in quotes, signaling a spoken exclamation. "NUTS" is a slangy, exclamatory word expressing frustration or disappointment, similar to "Drat!" in tone. Both convey the same sentiment, making "NUTS" the apt solution.
7Minister toTREAT?????✨ See Why
The clue "Minister to" means to care for or attend to someone’s needs, which aligns with the definition of "TREAT" as offering care or medical attention. This straightforward connection explains why "TREAT" is the solution for this clue.
8Twill suit materialSERGE?????✨ See Why
The answer is SERGE because it is a durable, tightly woven twill fabric often used in making suits, uniforms, and trousers. "Twill" refers to the fabric's diagonal weave pattern, and serge is a classic material known for this texture, commonly associated with formal attire like suits.
9"Some rise by ___, and some by virtue fall": "Measure for Measure"SIN???✨ See Why
The quote from Shakespeare's Measure for Measure contrasts moral consequences. "Some rise by SIN" refers to gaining power or success through immoral acts, while "some by virtue fall" suggests virtuous behavior can lead to downfall. SIN fits as the missing word emphasizing this moral inversion.
10EachAPOP????✨ See Why
The answer "APOP" is a shortened way to say "a piece" or "each" in informal usage. It is commonly used to denote something distributed individually, such as "two dollars a pop" meaning two dollars each. Hence, it fits perfectly with the clue "Each."
11Relative of a stalkSHOOT?????✨ See Why
The answer is SHOOT because, in botanical terms, a shoot refers to the young growth of a plant, which often includes the stem or stalk and emerging leaves. The clue implies a relationship to a stalk, and a shoot is its related developmental structure.
12Basic wine list offeringsHOUSEREDS?????????✨ See Why
The clue "Basic wine list offerings" refers to common and simple options available at most establishments. "House reds" are typically the default red wines served at a restaurant or bar. The answer, HOUSEREDS, combines "house" (basic, standard) and "reds" (red wines), fitting the context perfectly.
13FeelersANTENNAE????????✨ See Why
The answer ANTENNAE fits the clue "Feelers" because antennae are sensory appendages on insects and crustaceans, often used to "feel" their environment. It’s a literal connection as antennae help creatures detect touch, movement, or chemicals around them, aligning perfectly with the clue.
14"___, And?" (2024 Ariana Grande hit)YES???✨ See Why
The answer "YES" is derived from the clue’s reference to Ariana Grande’s 2024 hit song titled "Yes, And." The quotation marks suggest a direct title reference, and the missing "YES" in the blank completes the song's name, fitting perfectly into the crossword.
21Go on a run, perhapsSCHUSS??????✨ See Why
The clue "Go on a run, perhaps?" uses wordplay with "run" referring to skiing. A "schuss" is a term for a straight, fast downhill ski run. The pun here connects a "run" with the skiing term, making SCHUSS the fitting answer.
24Name of 11 pharaohsRAMSES??????✨ See Why
The answer "RAMSES" refers to the name of 11 ancient Egyptian pharaohs who ruled during different periods. Most notable is Ramses II, also known as Ramses the Great, celebrated for his accomplishments in construction, military conquests, and governing. The clue's use of "pharaohs" directly points to this historical royal name.
26Gesture of respect or recognitionHATTIP??????✨ See Why
The phrase "hat tip" originates from the gesture of tipping one's hat, a traditional sign of respect or recognition. Now used figuratively, it signifies acknowledgment or tribute. The clue directly describes this, making HATTIP the fitting answer for "Gesture of respect or recognition."
28PitifulSAD???✨ See Why
The word "Pitiful" describes something evoking sympathy, sorrow, or regret. "SAD" aligns directly as it conveys a sense of sorrow or emotional distress, matching the tone and meaning of "pitiful." Both terms express an emotional response to unfortunate or pitiable situations.
30Flotsam and jetsamDEBRIS??????✨ See Why
"Flotsam and jetsam" refer to floating wreckage or discarded items often found drifting at sea. Both terms are associated with scattered, broken pieces, aligning with the word DEBRIS, which means remnants or fragments left behind, matching the clue's context perfectly.
32Japanese businessman Torakusu with an internationally known company named after himYAMAHA??????✨ See Why
The answer is YAMAHA because Torakusu Yamaha founded the company in 1887. It started as a piano and reed organ manufacturer and grew into an internationally renowned brand producing musical instruments, electronics, and motorcycles, bearing his name. The clue directly references his pivotal role in establishing the Yamaha Corporation.
34What might be pinched for penniesCOINPURSE?????????✨ See Why
The clue plays on a pun: "pinched for pennies" suggests both being frugal and literally pinching something small. A COINPURSE holds pennies and is small enough to pinch with fingers, making it the perfect answer here. The wordplay ties frugality to the physical object.
35Artist who made a lot of good points?SEURAT??????✨ See Why
The clue uses a pun. Georges Seurat was a French painter known for developing the technique of pointillism, where small dots ("points") of color are applied to form an image. The phrase "a lot of good points" cleverly refers to this technique, making SEURAT the correct answer.
36Western Hemisphere grp.OAS???✨ See Why
The answer "OAS" stands for the Organization of American States, a regional group consisting of countries in the Western Hemisphere. It promotes economic, political, and social cooperation among its 35 member nations, primarily in North, Central, and South America as well as the Caribbean.
37Set of standards at a military academy, e.g.HONORCODE?????????✨ See Why
The answer "HONORCODE" fits because military academies are known for their strict ethical guidelines, often referred to as an honor code. These codes establish standards, like honesty and integrity, that students must uphold—a quintessential "set of standards" in this context.
38Going dark on, as one's love interest, in modern parlanceGHOSTING????????✨ See Why
"GHOSTING" is the solution because in modern slang, "going dark" on someone, especially a love interest, means abruptly cutting off all communication without explanation—just like a ghost disappearing. The term perfectly matches the clue's context and contemporary phrasing.
39"Huh!?"WHA???✨ See Why
The clue "Huh!?" with a question mark implies wordplay, specifically a reaction or sound. "Huh!?" expresses confusion or surprise, much like "Wha!?" does as a clipped or informal exclamation. WHA phonetically matches this reaction, making it the solution.
44Scrawny sortSCRAG?????✨ See Why
The answer "SCRAG" refers to a scrawny or skinny person, aligning with the definition of "scrawny sort." "Scrag" is slang for someone who is thin or bony, making it the perfect fit for the clue. The straightforward definition solves the clue.
46Emmy-winning AndersonLOUIE?????✨ See Why
The answer "LOUIE" refers to the show Louie, created by and starring comedian Louis C.K., also known as Louis Szekely. The character’s nickname, Louie, fits the clue since the show earned multiple Emmy wins, making this Anderson (Louie) an Emmy-winning title character.
47Making a certain metallic soundTINNY?????✨ See Why
The answer is TINNY because it describes a sound characterized by being thin, metallic, and high-pitched, often resembling the quality of sound produced by tin or thin metal objects. This aligns with the clue's description of "a certain metallic sound."
49PracticesMORES?????✨ See Why
The clue "Practices" refers to customary traditions, norms, or ways of behaving within a society or group. MORES specifically means the moral customs and conventions that dictate acceptable behavior in a community, linking directly to the idea of collective "practices" or societal standards.
50Physicist Mach after whom "Mach numbers" are namedERNST?????✨ See Why
The solution "ERNST" refers to Ernst Mach, a 19th-century Austrian physicist and philosopher. He is renowned for his work on the speed of sound and principles of aerodynamics, leading to the concept of "Mach numbers," which measure the ratio of an object's speed to the speed of sound.
51Plates, e.g.DISKS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Plates, e.g." refers to objects that are flat and circular, much like plates. DISKS are similarly shaped—flat, round objects, such as those found in computers, records, or anatomy (spinal disks)—making it a fitting answer for this clue.
53Big Island bean varietyKONA????✨ See Why
The "Big Island" refers to Hawaii's largest island, where KONA is a district famous for its coffee beans, known as Kona coffee. The clue's "bean variety" specifically points to this premium coffee variety, grown uniquely in this area. Thus, KONA is the fitting answer.
55"That's ___!"LIFE????✨ See Why
The phrase "That's life!" is a common expression used to convey acceptance of life's ups and downs or inevitable challenges. The blank in the clue is asking for the final word of this familiar saying, making LIFE the fitting answer.
57The Dolphins, on scoreboardsMIA???✨ See Why
The answer is MIA, which stands for Miami, the home city of the Miami Dolphins, an NFL team. On sports scoreboards, teams are often represented by a three-letter abbreviation of their city, and "MIA" is the standard abbreviation for Miami.
58Image, informallyREP???✨ See Why
The answer "REP" is short for "reputation," which can refer to someone's "image" or public perception. The clue specifies "informally," signaling a casual abbreviation is needed. Thus, REP fits as it colloquially represents the concept of one's image or standing.
60Extra item that a hotel guest may requestCOT???✨ See Why
The answer "COT" fits because hotel guests often request an extra small bed, like a cot, especially if traveling with children or needing additional sleeping arrangements. It aligns with the clue as a practical, requestable item typically provided by hotels.
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NYT Crossword Themes and Titles
The difficulty of the NYT Crossword evolves throughout the week, and a big part of that progression comes from its use of themes and titles.
Themes
Monday to Wednesday: These puzzles almost always have a theme, with several long answers connected by a common thread. Many include a “revealer” clue—a final answer that explains the theme’s pattern.
Thursday: Still themed, but often with an added twist. Expect trickier mechanics like rebus squares (where multiple letters fit in one box) or unconventional entry rules.
Friday & Saturday: These puzzles are themeless, relying instead on clever wordplay and more challenging vocabulary. Without a theme as a guide, the difficulty increases.
Sunday: The largest puzzle of the week is always themed, and its title offers a hint about the underlying concept.
Titles
Sunday puzzles always have a title that helps solvers identify the theme.
Monday through Saturday puzzles generally don’t have official titles.
While these patterns hold most of the time, creativity and playfulness are at the heart of crossword construction—so expect occasional surprises!
NYT Crossword Puzzle Availability
Online and All Access Subscribers: Daily puzzles are available the evening before their print release.
Weekday and Saturday Puzzles: Available at 10 p.m. EST the previous day.
Sunday Puzzles: Available at 6 p.m. EST on Saturday.
Notifications: Enable push notifications in the Games app settings to receive alerts when new puzzles are available.
How To Play
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.
Completion and Feedback
Successful Completion: A congratulatory message and music play when the puzzle is correctly solved. If no message appears, there might be an error in the filled squares.
Stars for Completion
Gold Stars: Awarded for puzzles solved consecutively before midnight EST without using Check or Reveal.
Blue Stars: Given for puzzles solved after midnight EST, with a skipped day, or using Check or Reveal.
Keyboard Shortcuts
For computer users, the following shortcuts can enhance gameplay:
Arrow Keys: Navigate in the puzzle.
Spacebar: Clear the current square and advance, toggle between Across and Down.
Backspace/Delete: Remove a letter or word.
Tab: Jump to the next clue.
Shift + Tab: Jump to the previous clue.
Escape: Enter Rebus mode.
App Customization Options
Cursor Movement: Customize cursor settings in the Puzzle Settings menu. Options include skipping filled squares, jumping to the first blank, or the next clue.
Secondary Keyboard: For symbols and numbers, switch by selecting the More button.
Adjust Puzzle Size: Zoom in with a pinch gesture or toggle Clue View.
Modes
Alternate between black (pen) and gray (pencil) letters.
Letter Colors
Black: Default pen mode.
Gray: Pencil mode.
Blue: Letters confirmed with Check.
Timer and Special Elements
Timer: Track your solving time. Pause and resume as needed, or hide the timer in the settings.
Rebus Elements: Enter letters, numbers, or symbols in a single square as part of the puzzle’s challenge or hint.
NYT Crossword Help
The New York Times provides various resources to aid in solving puzzles and improving solving skills.
In-Game Help
Information Icon ("i"): Flashing icon indicates available puzzle hint.
Lifesaver Icon: Offers options to check or reveal a square, an answer, or the entire puzzle.
Clear: Resets the entire puzzle.
Reveal: Displays correct letters for selected square, answer, or entire puzzle.
Check: Validates a square, word, or the entire puzzle; Autocheck option available.
Note: Using Reveal or Check resets the Crossword Streak.
Lady Puzzle Pro Help
Besides this page, meant to help you unblock or finish a puzzle we published a comprehensive guide on how to read the NYT Crossword Clues, which includes mini hints to assist you with both the NYT crosswords and the NYT Mini puzzle solving.
More Features
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