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NYT Crossword Answers: Get Hints and Solve All Clues

Across

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • "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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • "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.

  • 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

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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."

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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."

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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."

  • 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.

  • "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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • "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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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."

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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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