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NYT Crossword Answers: Get Hints and Solve All Clues

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Across

  • The Large Hadron Collider (LHC) is a famous particle physics facility near Geneva, Switzerland. It accelerates and collides hadrons (subatomic particles, like protons) to study fundamental forces and particles in the universe. The word "Large" references its massive size, and "Hadron" specifies the particles involved.

  • The phrase "We need to talk ..." often precedes a serious or important conversation. "A word" is a common way to request a brief, private discussion, aligning perfectly with the clue’s suggestion of initiating dialogue. The ellipsis hints at this conversational context.

  • The answer "COCK" refers to a rooster, a male chicken known for its confident, strutting walk in barnyards. "Strutter" highlights its characteristic proud and bold movement, making "cock" an apt fit for this clue.

  • The clue "Lazy day attire, for short" suggests casual, relaxed clothing typically worn at home. "For short" indicates an abbreviation. PJS is short for "pajamas," which are commonly associated with comfort and lounging, making it the perfect fit for a lazy day at home.

  • The clue "Family elder in El Salvador" indicates a familial term in Spanish, as El Salvador is a Spanish-speaking country. "Abuela" means "grandmother" in Spanish, making it the perfect fit for a family elder. The feminine form matches the clue's context, leading to the answer ABUELA.

  • The answer "VICAR" fits because, in ecclesiastical terms, a vicar is a representative or deputy of a bishop. They often act on the bishop's behalf in managing a parish or performing duties within the Church of England, aligning perfectly with "Bishop's deputy."

  • The answer "ORCA" fits because an orca, also known as a killer whale, is a powerful marine predator. As a carnivorous cetacean, it preys on fish, seals, and other marine animals, making it an apt solution for this straightforward definition-based clue.

  • A "Luau" is a traditional Hawaiian feast or party, and a LEI is a garland of flowers often given as a symbol of welcome or affection in Hawaii. It is a common accessory worn around the neck during luaus, making LEI the fitting answer.

  • The clue uses a pun, indicated by the question mark. "Save the date" is a common phrase for event announcements like weddings. By replacing "save" with "shave," it humorously refers to grooming (making a beard presentable) in preparation for photo-worthy events, cleverly aligning with "make a partner's beard presentable."

  • The answer "CASHBARD" is a pun combining "cash" (indicating payment) and "bard" (a poet, often referring to Shakespeare). The clue plays on the idea of hiring a poet (a "bard") for payment ("cash") to craft the couple's vows in poetic, flowery language.

  • The clue "Survey option" refers to possible responses to a survey. A common survey choice, especially in multiple-choice questions, is "NONE," indicating no agreeable option or preference. It fits the straightforward interpretation of survey responses.

  • The clue "Responded to an alarm" implies a reaction to being alerted or woken up, such as an alarm clock. "AROSE" fits as it describes physically getting up from bed, a common response to an alarm. The past tense matches "Responded," ensuring grammatical alignment.

  • The clue uses wordplay with "Increment in an elephant's weight." Elephants are massive creatures, often weighing several tons, so "TON" humorously represents a significant unit of weight increase fitting the scale of an elephant, making it the apt answer.

  • The answer is LATKE because it’s a traditional Jewish potato pancake often served with applesauce or sour cream, especially during Hanukkah. "Pancake" here refers to its flat, fried shape, and the pairing with these toppings points directly to the cultural delicacy.

  • The clue "Trample" directly points to the physical act of stepping or stomping on something, which is synonymous with "TREAD ON." To trample is to heavily tread or press on something or someone, leaving "TREADON" as a fitting solution.

  • The clue uses wordplay, indicated by the question mark. "Wedding duress" is a pun on "wedding dress," capturing the stress ("duress") often experienced during wedding planning, like managing countless details and expectations around "the big day." The humor ties the pun to the headaches caused by this pressure.

  • The answer is LENDL because Ivan Lendl was a dominant tennis player in the 1980s, winning eight Grand Slam singles titles and holding the world No. 1 ranking for 270 weeks. The clue directly references his fame as a tennis champ during that era, making LENDL the correct answer.

  • The clue references the actor Keanu Reeves, who famously starred as Neo in "The Matrix" film series. "Reeves" in the clue directly points to the actor's last name, making KEANU the correct solution as his first name. This is a straightforward trivia-based clue.

  • The solution "EAN" is the suffix in "Caesarean," referring to the Caesarean section, a surgical procedure named after Julius Caesar. The suffix “-ean” typically converts a name into an adjective or related form, connecting it to the person or thing it describes.

  • The clue uses wordplay. A "record" often refers to record-breaking achievements. To break a record, one surpasses a previous benchmark, which metaphorically "breaks the law" of limits set before. Hence, "LAW" fits as what’s metaphorically "broken for a record."

  • The clue "Unagi catcher" points to "EELER" because "unagi" is the Japanese word for freshwater eel, commonly used in cuisine. An "EELER" is someone who catches eels, making it the apt answer. This clue is straightforward and ties directly to the definition of "unagi."

  • The clue "Lay low?" includes a question mark, signaling wordplay. "Lay low" here is a pun hinting at burying something. To "inter" means to bury a body in the ground, which literally involves laying it low. Hence, INTER is the correct answer.

  • The answer is EASE because the song title from The Wiz is "Ease on Down the Road." It reflects the encouragement to move forward smoothly and without struggle, which aligns with the clue. The blank in the clue directly suggests filling it with "Ease" to complete the title.

  • The clue involves wordplay, as indicated by the question mark. A "grift" refers to a scheme for obtaining money dishonestly. A "registry" typically refers to a wedding or gift list. Together, "GRIFT REGISTRY" humorously implies a fake registry used by a couple to return gifts for cash, aligning with the clue.

  • The clue's question mark signals wordplay. "Inner truth" hints at seeing inside something, which is done using X-rays. An "X-ray lab" is a place where such images are taken, revealing hidden (inner) truths within the body. "Seen clearly" reinforces the clarity provided by X-ray imaging.

  • The clue "Pro ___" refers to the Latin phrase "pro bono," which means "for the public good." It is a term often used in law or professional work to describe services done for free to benefit others. BONO completes this familiar phrase perfectly.

  • In "RuPaul's Drag Race," contestants eliminated from the competition are told to "Sashay away" as part of the goodbye. The clue's wording ("farewell") fits this phrase, and "Sashay" is the starting word of that iconic phrase, making it the perfect fit for the answer.

  • In a standard deck of cards, Diamonds is one of the four suits (alongside Hearts, Clubs, and Spades). The clue asks for a category Diamonds belongs to, making "SUIT" the correct answer. No wordplay is involved; it's a straightforward reference to card terminology.

  • The clue "Airport alternative to EWR" refers to U.S. airports. EWR is Newark Liberty International Airport, located in New Jersey. An alternative nearby is LGA, LaGuardia Airport, situated in New York City. Both are major airports serving the NYC area. Hence, LGA is correct.

  • The clue "Little nobodies" uses the term "little" to suggest insignificance or a diminutive nature, aligning with the informal word "TWERPS," which refers to insignificant, annoying, or inconsequential people. The playful tone of the clue matches the lighthearted nature of the term.

  • The answer is LEOX because Pope Leo X excommunicated Martin Luther in 1521 after Luther’s criticisms of the Catholic Church sparked the Protestant Reformation. The Roman numerals "X" denote Leo's papal number, making LEOX the correct historical reference.

  • The clue ends with "maybe," signaling a possible or playful interpretation. Winning a lottery implies a sudden windfall, often leading to indulgent spending or celebratory behavior. A "SPREE" refers to an excessive bout of activity, like shopping or partying—fittingly describing a response to such unexpected wealth.

  • The answer is SOY because soybeans are a primary source used to make soy milk, a popular plant-based milk alternative. The clue "Milk source" references the ingredient (soybeans) used to produce this dairy-free milk. The lack of wordplay or additional hints indicates a straightforward answer.

  • The clue uses a pun with "Fancy headpiece ornament?" hinting at both a literal decoration (a feather) on a headpiece or veil and a play on the phrase "feather of the bride." Brides often wear veils with elaborate embellishments, making this a whimsical, fitting answer.

  • The clue "Much" relates to quantity or extent. "Far" fits as it suggests a great distance or degree, often used figuratively. For instance, "far more" or "far too much" express an extent of "much." It aligns perfectly with the concise nature of crossword clues.

  • The answer "SEUSS" refers to Dr. Seuss, the famous author of children's books like The Cat in the Hat. His title "Dr." was self-appointed and purely honorary, as he was not a medical doctor. The clue uses wordplay since his "Dr." title is unrelated to practicing medicine.

  • The answer "OWOE" completes the Shakespearean line from Ophelia in Hamlet (Act III, Scene 1): "O, woe is me, to have seen what I have seen." It conveys her lament and sorrow. The seemingly unusual spelling in the answer aligns directly with the phrasing for accuracy.

  • The answer "ENRAPT" fits "Mesmerized" because both describe a state of being fully captivated or enthralled by something. "Enrapt" specifically conveys intense emotional focus or fascination, aligning perfectly with the meaning of being mesmerized. It's a concise and fitting synonym.

  • The answer "ALA" is derived from the phrase "à la," meaning "in the style of" in French. It’s often used in English to describe something done or made in the manner of another, like "à la mode" (in fashion or with ice cream).

  • The solution is TARE because "tare" refers to the weight of an empty container. In weighing goods, the tare weight is subtracted from the total (gross) weight to determine the actual weight of the contents (net weight). This aligns with the clue's wording.

  • The clue "Spread the word?" with the question mark suggests a pun or wordplay. "Spread the word" can mean to share a message or promote an idea, which aligns with the act of preaching. To preach is to communicate or spread a message, often in a religious or moral context.

  • The Bosporus Strait divides Istanbul into two parts, with one side in Europe and the other in Asia. Since the clue asks for "one side," the correct answer is ASIA, which lies on the eastern side of the strait.

  • The clue "Absolutely!" in quotes indicates that the answer is a spoken phrase conveying strong agreement. "I SURE DO" is a casual, affirmative response that matches the enthusiastic tone of "Absolutely!" when spoken. It perfectly fits the conversational context of the clue.

  • The answer "SOMETHINGBOLD" is a play on the wedding tradition "something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue." Here, "something bold" humorously refers to the colorful, sequined jacket (a bold fashion choice) worn by the groom, incorporating wordplay indicated by the question mark.

  • The answer LODE refers to a rich vein of valuable minerals typically found in a mine. "Mine find" is a straightforward clue, indicating something discovered while mining, and a LODE is exactly that - a significant deposit of ore commonly sought in mining operations.

  • The clue "Like some online purchases" refers to purchases made within an app or application. These types of transactions are commonly called "in-app purchases," fitting the crossword’s space-saving answer: INAPP. It succinctly describes this specific kind of online transaction.

  • The answer "SETON" comes from the phrase "set on," which means fixated or obsessed with something. This is a clever play on words, as "set on" can be interpreted phonetically as "SETON," fitting the clue's context.

  • The answer "NEA" refers to the National Education Association, a major teachers' union and influential lobbying group based in Washington, D.C. It advocates for educators and public education policies, fitting the description of a "major lobby" in the nation's capital.

  • The answer is ASL, short for American Sign Language. It fits the clue “Communication that goes without saying, for short” because ASL is a visual language used by the Deaf community, relying on gestures and signs instead of spoken words—communication literally "without saying."

  • PRIAM is the correct answer because he was the legendary king of Troy during the Trojan War, as detailed in Greek mythology and epic tales like the "Iliad." Known for his wisdom and compassion, Priam ruled Troy when it fell to the Greeks through the infamous Trojan Horse.

  • In rugby, a "SCRUM" is a formation where players pack closely together to contest possession of the ball—essentially a controlled scuffle. The clue "Rugby scuffle" directly describes this physical struggle for the ball, making SCRUM the fitting solution.

  • The clue uses a pun with "parity" (meaning equality) and "planner." A "PARITY PLANNER" ensures fairness, making sure each family can invite the same number of guests to maintain equal arrangements. The wordplay lies in blending organizational planning with the concept of equality.

  • The answer "HASIDIM" refers to members of the Hasidic movement, an Orthodox Jewish sect emphasizing spirituality, joy, and mysticism, founded in 18th-century Eastern Europe. The clue directly points to a specific sect within Orthodox Judaism, making HASIDIM the fitting solution.

  • The clue contains a playful, visual reference indicated by the question mark. In cartoons, wispy, swirling lines rising from a pie often signify its delicious scent. The term for a scent or smell is "AROMA," making it the perfect answer to represent the depicted idea.

  • The answer "LET" refers to a call made by an umpire in sports like tennis. It indicates a serve that hits the net and lands in the proper service box, requiring a replay. The umpire announces "let" to signal the situation.

  • The answer is GLADE because both Febreze and Glade are well-known brands of air fresheners. They compete in the same market of products designed to eliminate odors and freshen the air, making Glade a direct rival to Febreze.

  • The clue "Disembodied assistant" is a playful way to describe a virtual assistant without a physical form. Siri, Apple's voice-activated assistant, fits perfectly as it provides help without a body, operating entirely through devices like iPhones or iPads—making it a "disembodied" helper.

  • The clue "Animal's escort down the aisle?" features wordplay using "Animal" and "aisle." "Beast" is another term for an animal, and combining it with "man" (someone who may escort down an aisle, like at a wedding) forms "BEASTMAN," a pun. The question mark hints at this playful interpretation.

  • The clue uses a question mark, signaling wordplay. "MOTHER-IN-LAW" refers to a "parent" while "LAWN" refers to the "garden event." Combining them with a pun gives "MOTHER-IN-LAWN," humorously depicting the scenario of wearing stilettos—impractical for a lawn setting.

  • The answer "SNL" refers to Saturday Night Live, a popular live sketch-comedy and variety show that airs on NBC. The show typically runs for 90 minutes, fitting the clue perfectly. Its long-standing cultural impact and iconic status make it a well-known response to this description.

  • A bushel or a peck refers to standardized measurements of volume, often for agricultural products. Both are "units" of measurement. Thus, "UNIT" is the correct solution, as it captures the general concept of a singular, defined measure like a bushel or a peck.

  • The term "GLEAN" means to gather small amounts of something, often bit by bit. A bushel or a peck are measures of harvested goods (like grains or fruit), so to "gather" them aligns with "glean," especially in an agricultural or metaphorical sense.

  • The clue "___-weenie" suggests a rhyme or phrase. The answer "TEENIE" completes the common phrase "teenie-weenie," often used to describe something very small. It's a playful, rhyming expression, making this answer the fitting solution.

  • The clue "Wee bit" refers to something very small. "TAD" is a colloquial term meaning a small amount or a little bit, aligning perfectly with the definition of "Wee bit." Both terms convey a sense of something minimal or tiny.

  • The answer is SONY because Sony Corporation is the company that designs, manufactures, and markets the PlayStation gaming consoles. It’s a well-known Japanese electronics and gaming brand, responsible for producing the popular PlayStation series since its launch in 1994.

  • The phrase "Head over heels" commonly implies being completely infatuated or deeply in love, which aligns with the adverb "MADLY" as in "madly in love." The answer captures the emotional intensity described in the clue.

  • The answer "SEDANS" fits because taxis are often this type of car. Sedans are practical, spacious, and commonly used vehicles for transporting passengers, making them typical for taxi services. The clue implies the typical car style for taxis, matching the standard design of sedans.

Down

  • The clue "Lacks" is a synonym clue, meaning the answer must be a word or contraction expressing the same idea. "Hasn't" (a contraction for "has not") describes the state of not having something, which is equivalent to "lacks." Thus, HASNT is the correct answer.

  • The clue "Detest" directly means to hate or loathe something intensely. "Abhor" is a synonym for this, defined as feeling extreme aversion or hatred toward something. Both terms convey a strong sense of dislike, making "ABHOR" the exact match for the clue.

  • The Allman Brothers Band was co-founded by brothers Gregg and Duane Allman, making DUANE a correct answer. Duane Allman was the band's legendary guitarist, known for his slide guitar skills and contribution to Southern rock. The clue specifies "one of" the brothers, leading to DUANE as a solution.

  • The clue "Gender ___ (prebirth event)" refers to a common event where expectant parents unveil the gender of their baby. The missing word is "REVEAL," fittingly describing the action of disclosing the baby's gender during such celebrations. Hence, the answer is REVEAL.

  • The clue "Fútbol cheer" refers to soccer ("fútbol" in Spanish). The answer "OLE" is a common exclamation of enthusiasm or praise in Spanish, often heard during soccer matches when fans cheer for a skillful play or a goal. It fits as the celebratory cheer.

  • The clue "King" Cole's first name refers to Nat King Cole, a famous American jazz musician and singer. His first name was Nat, short for Nathaniel. The quotation marks around "King" signal that it references his nickname, making NAT the correct answer.

  • The answer "AVER" fits the clue "Declare" because "aver" means to assert or state something confidently as a fact. It is commonly used in legal or formal contexts to declare something to be true. The straightforward nature of the clue aligns with this definition.

  • In Shakespeare's Richard III, Lady Anne is introduced as a widow mourning her husband, Edward, who was killed in the Wars of the Roses. Thus, "WIDOW" is the correct answer reflecting her marital status at the play's beginning.

  • The answer "OCASEK" refers to Ric Ocasek, the late lead singer and co-founder of the rock band The Cars. Known for hits like "Drive" and "Just What I Needed," his name directly fits the clue "Rocker Ric," as he is famously associated with rock music.

  • The answer "RATEDE" refers to the ESRB (Entertainment Software Rating Board) rating for the Mario Kart games, which are consistently rated "E" for "Everyone." This means the games are deemed suitable for all ages, aligning with the clue "Like the Mario Kart games."

  • The answer "DRE" refers to Dr. Dre, the famous rapper, producer, and entrepreneur. The pun lies in "never practiced medicine," as his "Dr." title is a stage name, not a medical credential. This play on words ties to his prominence in music, not medicine.

  • A piña colada is a tropical cocktail traditionally made with coconut cream, pineapple juice, and rum. The word "vessel" in the clue refers to something that can hold the drink. Coconuts are both key ingredients and natural containers, making "COCONUT" the perfect answer.

  • The answer "ORANG" refers to an orangutan, a cousin species to chimpanzees in the primate family. Both are great apes and share physical and behavioral similarities, making "Cousin of a chimp" an apt description. "Orangutan" is often shortened to "ORANG" in crossword puzzles.

  • The solution "CCS" stands for "carbon copies," a common email term for including recipients in a message, hence "loops in." The clue specifies "in brief," indicating an abbreviation, which aligns with "CCs" as shorthand in email communication.

  • The Mudslide is a popular cocktail made with ingredients like vodka, Irish cream, and coffee liqueur. KAHLÚA is a well-known coffee liqueur brand, making it a key component of a Mudslide. Hence, KAHLÚA fits perfectly as the answer to this clue.

  • The clue "Batter's position" refers to the spot a baseball batter occupies during the game. In baseball, the batter stands at home plate to hit the ball. "Plate" directly describes the physical location where the batter positions themselves, hence the solution is PLATE.

  • The clue "Spasms" refers to sudden, involuntary movements, which aligns well with the definition of "JERKS." Both words describe quick, sharp motions, making JERKS the appropriate solution.

  • The clue "Menu heading" refers to a category commonly found on a restaurant menu. "Sides" is a common heading in menus that lists side dishes like fries, salad, or vegetables, which accompany the main course. It fits perfectly as a straightforward, logical answer.

  • The clue "Manages" relates to controlling, dealing with, or overseeing something—both literal and metaphorical tasks. "Handles" is synonymous with these actions, as it means taking care of or managing a situation, object, or responsibility, perfectly aligning with the clue's intent.

  • The answer is BARNEY, referencing Barney the Dinosaur, a beloved fictional children's TV character known from Barney & Friends. The phrase "from our imagination" comes directly from the show's theme song, emphasizing Barney's origin as a friendly, imaginary dinosaur created to entertain and teach children.

  • The answer "TINNY" fits the clue "Thin-sounding" because the word describes a sound that is high-pitched, metallic, and lacking depth, often associated with cheap or small speakers. It directly conveys the idea of "thin" in an auditory sense.

  • The solution "DEET" refers to the active chemical ingredient in Off! insect repellents. DEET is widely used to repel mosquitoes and other pests, making it the key component in this product. Since the clue asks for an "ingredient" in Off!, DEET directly fits as the answer.

  • The answer "ONER" is an old-fashioned term meaning something extraordinary or remarkable, much like the phrase "real lulu," which describes something outstanding or exceptional, often in a surprising or peculiar way. The two terms align in describing something noteworthy or one-of-a-kind.

  • The clue "Milk source" directly refers to where milk commonly comes from. A dairy is a facility or farm where milk is produced, processed, and often distributed. Therefore, DAIRY accurately represents a primary source of milk, fitting the clue perfectly.

  • The clue "Caboose" uses wordplay, hinting at a synonym for the rear end of something. "Caboose" is the last car on a train and is also slang for a person’s buttocks, making "DERRIERE," the French word for "rear" or "behind," a fitting and clever answer.

  • The clue "Terms of a contract?" with a question mark indicates wordplay. "LEGALESE" refers to the formal, technical language often used in legal documents, including contracts. The pun lies in "terms" being literal (words used in contracts) and playful (highlighting the specialized legal jargon).

  • The clue “Queue before Q?” uses wordplay. In the LGBTQ acronym, representing the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer community, the letters “LGBT” come before “Q” sequentially. The “queue” hints at the lineup/order of letters, and the question mark signals the playful reference.

  • The phrase "Get one's ducks in a row" refers to organizing or arranging things neatly and efficiently. The blank in the clue suggests completing the phrase with "AROW," as ducks would line up "in a row." This ties directly to the idiom's meaning of orderliness.

  • The clue "Vintage racket?" uses a pun. "Vintage" refers to wine, and "racket" suggests an illegal scheme. Together, this hints at fraudulent activity involving wine, such as counterfeit or mislabeled bottles. Thus, the answer is WINEFRAUD, combining both meanings in a clever play on words.

  • RISERS are tiered platforms used in choral arrangements to elevate singers, allowing them to be seen and heard clearly. This physical setup ensures an orderly formation essential for group performances. The answer ties directly to "essentials" for organizing a choir's positioning.

  • The clue "Community at the end of the line" plays on the idea of a suburban or exurban area being at the outskirts, or "end of the line," of a metropolitan area’s development or transit routes. An EXURB refers to a community beyond the suburbs, fitting this description.

  • The clue "Year-round, as tires" refers to a type of tire designed for use in all weather conditions—winter, summer, and everything in between. These are called "all-season" tires, as they perform reasonably well in any season, making "ALLSEASON" the perfect fit for this clue.

  • The clue "Starch-yielding palm" refers to the sago palm, a plant commonly used to produce sago, a starchy substance extracted from its pith. Sago is widely used in cooking, often in desserts or as a thickener, making "SAGO" the accurate answer.

  • EBAY is the solution because it is the company that acquired Shopping.com in 2005. The term "Parent" in the clue refers to corporate ownership, and eBay, a global e-commerce giant, became Shopping.com's parent company through this acquisition.

  • The clue "Driver's warning" uses wordplay. This refers to golf: a "driver" is a type of golf club, and "FORE!" is a warning shouted to alert others of an incoming ball. It’s a verbal signal often associated with golf safety. Hence, the answer is "FORE."

  • The clue "Away with you!" is in quotes, indicating a spoken phrase. "SHOO" is an exclamation typically used to chase someone or something away, like an animal or pest. It matches the tone and intent of the clue, making it the fitting answer.

  • The clue "1099, e.g." asks for a category or example related to "1099." A 1099 is a U.S. IRS document used to report income other than wages. This makes it a type of TAXFORM, fitting the clue's requirement for an example of 1099.

  • The clue "Stayed home for dinner" refers to eating at home rather than going out. "ATE IN" breaks down to "ate" (had dinner) and "in" (stayed at home). Together, ATEIN succinctly expresses the act of dining at home.

  • A filibuster is a political tactic used to delay or block legislative action, often by delivering long, continuous speeches. These speeches are a key component of filibusters as they aim to consume time and prevent a vote, fitting the clue perfectly.

  • The solution "PASTE" fits "Wallop" as both can mean to hit or strike forcefully. "Paste" is often used colloquially to describe delivering a hard blow, aligning with the clue's intent. This synonym makes "PASTE" the appropriate answer.

  • The clue "Without change" suggests something consistent or unvarying. "STEADILY" matches this as it means doing something in a consistent, unchanging manner. In context, when something occurs steadily, it remains constant, aligning perfectly with the idea of no change.

  • The answer "SHOATS" is correct because it refers to young, weaned pigs, generally under a year old. This term is commonly used in farming and animal husbandry to specifically describe growing pigs that are no longer reliant on their mother's milk.

  • HOMES is a mnemonic to remember the five Great Lakes: Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior. The "H" stands for Huron, making it the correct answer to this clue.

  • The answer "TWEE" fits because it is a term used to describe something overly quaint, excessively delicate, or overly sentimental in a way that might seem precious or saccharine. It perfectly aligns with the clue "Overly precious," capturing that sense of being excessively cutesy or affectedly charming.

  • The answer "DRAB" is fitting for the clue "Lackluster" because "drab" describes something dull, monotonous, or lacking brightness and vibrancy. It perfectly aligns with the meaning of "lackluster," which signifies something uninspiring or without shine or liveliness.

  • The clue plays on the grading system, where letters A, B, C, and D represent passing grades. The letter "F" follows these and commonly signifies "FAIL" in academic contexts, making it the fitting answer. The pun refers to the progression of grades ending in failure.

  • The clue "Additionally" is a synonym-based straightforward clue. "Additionally" means "in addition" or "also," making ALSO the perfect answer as it conveys the same meaning. No tricks or wordplay are involved, making it a direct and logical match.

  • The clue "Heap" is a synonym clue. "Heap" and "PILE" both refer to a collection of things stacked or placed together in a disorganized manner. They are interchangeable in this context, making PILE the correct answer.

  • The clue "Look! I did it!" in quotes signals a spoken exclamation. "TADA" is a celebratory phrase often exclaimed when successfully completing or revealing something, perfectly matching the enthusiastic tone of the clue.

  • The answer "POPIN" perfectly fits the clue "Make a quick visit" because it is a commonly used phrase meaning to briefly stop by or visit a place. It's informal and directly describes a short, casual visit, aligning with the clue phrasing.

  • The clue "One looking for a free ride" uses wordplay. A "hitcher" is short for a hitchhiker, which is someone who looks for a free ride by soliciting car rides from passing drivers. The term perfectly aligns with the clue's description.

  • The clue "Adjusts sights" suggests modifying one's focus or target, often for accuracy. "REAIMS" fits as it implies aiming again or readjusting one's focus, aligning perfectly with the clue’s meaning. The prefix "RE-" indicates doing something again, hence readjusting or re-aiming your sights.

  • The clue references the nursery rhyme "Jack Sprat," where the character "Jack Sprat could eat no fat; his wife could eat no lean." This explains the phrase "Jack on a nonfat diet," and the answer is SPRAT, Jack's last name from the rhyme. It’s a play on words.

  • The solution is NORA because Awkwafina, the comedian, rapper, and actress, is a stage name. Her real given name is Nora Lum. This clue uses straightforward trivia, where familiarity with the celebrity’s background reveals the answer.

  • The answer "GNUS" refers to wildebeests, which are hoofed creatures. The clue uses a pun: "sound up-to-date" suggests the word "news," which is phonetically similar to "gnus." This wordplay links the animal to the concept of current happenings or being up-to-date.

  • The clue "Galore" directly points to abundance or a large quantity, which matches the meaning of the word "APLENTY." "Aplenty" is an adverb or adjective that conveys being in ample or plentiful amounts, perfectly aligning with the definition of "Galore."

  • The answer "STATUS" fits because social climbers are often obsessed with improving their standing or rank in society, seeking prestige, influence, or respect. "Status" represents the position or rank they aim to achieve, aligning perfectly with the obsession mentioned in the clue.

  • The answer is ANGOLA because it is the second-largest country by population where Portuguese is the official language, after Brazil. A former Portuguese colony, Angola maintains Portuguese as its national language, reflecting its history and linguistic ties to Portugal.

  • The answer is MELTED because fondue traditionally involves heating cheese until it becomes a smooth, liquid state. The clue describes the consistency of the cheese in fondue, which is precisely "melted." This directly matches the process and texture central to fondue.

  • The question mark in the clue signals wordplay. A tricky crossword clue may misguide solvers, making them feel "MISLED." The answer cleverly reflects the emotional response to being led astray by misleading or deceptive phrasing in the clue itself.

  • The answer is PABST because Pabst Blue Ribbon is a popular American beer brand. Its full name, "Pabst Blue Ribbon," is a direct reference to the clue. The "blue ribbon" signifies the award it purportedly won at a beer competition, which the brand uses in its name and marketing.

  • The answer "ARENA" fits because in "The Hunger Games," the main events take place in a controlled, enclosed battleground called the Arena, where tributes face off in survival competitions. The clue directly refers to this setting as the key venue of the story.

  • ROALD is the correct answer because Roald Amundsen was a Norwegian explorer who became the first person to reach the South Pole in 1911. The clue directly references his accomplishment and surname, identifying him as the trailblazer in Antarctic exploration.

  • The clue "Bagel option" refers to the different types or flavors of bagels available. A "plain" bagel is a common, straightforward option without additional toppings or flavors, making it the logical answer. It directly fits the straightforward nature of the clue.

  • The answer is RAHAL because Bobby Rahal is a legendary figure in motorsports. He is a Hall-of-Fame IndyCar driver, having won the 1986 Indy 500 and three CART championships. The clue directly refers to his renowned status in racing history, making RAHAL the fitting answer.

  • DIANA refers to Princess Diana, a pivotal character in the acclaimed Netflix series The Crown. The show chronicles key events in British royal history, and Princess Diana's life, marriage to Prince Charles, and tragic death are prominently explored in later seasons, making her a central figure.

  • The answer is IRWIN because "Crocodile Hunter" refers to Steve Irwin, the famous Australian wildlife expert and TV personality known for his work with crocodiles and other dangerous animals. His show "The Crocodile Hunter" brought him international fame.

  • The clue "Digs for data?" includes a pun indicated by the question mark. "Digs" refers to the act of mining or extracting something, and "data" suggests information. Together, "MINES" fits perfectly as it means extracting data (often digitally or metaphorically) while playing on the literal act of mining.

  • The line "Deny thy father and refuse thy name" is from Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet (Act 2, Scene 2). Juliet urges Romeo to renounce his family name (Montague) for their love. The blank completes her plea, and "deny" fits the meaning and rhythm of the quote.

  • The clue "6, on a phone" refers to the layout of a standard telephone keypad. The number 6 on a phone corresponds to the letters M, N, and O. This matches the answer "MNO" as these letters are grouped together under the 6 key.

  • The answer is MGM because Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer (MGM) is a famous movie studio known for its roaring lion logo, "Leo the Lion." The clue cleverly refers to this iconic mascot to hint at the studio's name.

  • The clue "FWIW part" hints at an abbreviation or piece of the phrase "For What It's Worth." The contraction "it's" in this phrase directly corresponds to ITS, making it the correct and logical solution.

  • The answer "NEE" refers to a word used to indicate someone's maiden name, especially for women whose surnames have changed due to marriage. At a class reunion, a name tag might include "née" to help former classmates recognize someone by their original last name.

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Need help with today's NYT Crossword? Reveal letters one by one, solve the entire puzzle, or click a clue to find its answer.

No matter how you solve it, this tool offers just the right help to unblock or finish the NYT Crossword!

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NYT Crossword - All You Need To Know

You can enjoy the New York Times Crossword puzzle in various formats:

  • Online: Visit nytimes.com/games.
  • Mobile Apps: Available in The New York Times Games app (iOS and Android) and the Play tab of the New York Times News app.
  • Print: Access the daily Crossword by subscribing to Home Delivery or purchasing a copy of The New York Times newspaper at your local newsstand.

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

  • Statistics: Track Progress: View puzzle stats.
  • Settings: adjust settings for a personalized experience.
  • Access Archives: Download and play past puzzles offline for continued enjoyment and practice.

Today's NYT Puzzle Guides by LadyPuzzle Pro

Daily Challenges Beyond NYT Games