NY Times Crossword Logo

"… if you get my drift" - NYT The Crossword Clue

123456789101112131415161718192021222324252627282930313233343536373839404142434445464748495051525354555657585960616263646566676869707172737475767778798081828384858687888990919293949596979899100101102103104105106107108109110111112113114115116117118119120121122

Across

  • The answer "IMAM" fits the clue "Muslim leader" because an Imam is an Islamic leader who leads prayers in a mosque and offers spiritual guidance to the Muslim community. The title is commonly associated with leaders in Islam, making it the precise solution to this straightforward clue.

  • The clue "Daffy Duck, for one" hints at Daffy being a type of duck. A "drake" is the term for a male duck, which fits the clue perfectly. The wordplay involves recognizing Daffy Duck as a male duck, making "DRAKE" the correct answer.

  • The word "SLOG" refers to a long, difficult, and tiring effort, often associated with hard or grueling processes. It perfectly matches the clue "Grueling process," as it conveys the sense of enduring something laborious or challenging over time.

  • The clue "Unlocked?" with the question mark signals a pun or wordplay. "Unlocked" can figuratively mean "not covered." In this sense, it plays on the idea of a head "unlocked" of hair, or hairless—hence, BALD. The pun connects the answer to being exposed or uncovered.

  • The clue "Consideration in the dating scene" uses wordplay. In dating, people often talk about having a "type" – a preference for certain qualities or characteristics in potential partners. Therefore, "TYPE" is cleverly the answer, as it reflects one's personal criteria or "type" in dating.

  • The answer "AIRER" refers to something that "airs" content, like TV shows or radio programs. It describes a TV or radio station as an entity that broadcasts (airs) content to the public, fitting the straightforward definition in the clue.

  • The solution "CAVE" works for the clue "Capitulate" because "cave" is a term meaning to give in, yield, or surrender—essentially, to capitulate. This usage often appears metaphorically, as in "cave under pressure," aligning perfectly with the clue's definition.

  • The answer "ALTAR" fits the clue "Sacrificial site" because an altar is historically and religiously associated with ceremonies involving offerings or sacrifices. In various cultures and traditions, altars serve as a focal point for rituals, including sacrificial practices, making it a perfect match for the clue.

  • The answer is self-referential, the circled letters in the puzzle spell KING. A king is both a royal and the highest-ranking one — a “top-ranking royal.”

  • The answer is GARBO because Greta Garbo, a Swedish actress and Hollywood legend, famously portrayed Queen Christina in the 1933 film "Queen Christina." Her poignant and compelling performance in the title role is one of her most iconic and celebrated works.

  • The Washington Monument is an example of an obelisk—a tall, four-sided, narrow structure that tapers into a pyramid-like top. The clue describes its architectural type, making OBELISK the correct answer.

  • The clue "Twistable piece on Mr. Potato Head" refers to one of the toy's detachable, twistable parts. Mr. Potato Head's arms are designed to be removed or repositioned by twisting, making "ARM" the correct answer. This fits both the toy's design and the clue's descriptive phrasing.

  • The answer FUSION fits because it refers to a culinary style that combines elements from different cuisines or cultures to create unique, eclectic dishes. This blending or "fusing" of diverse culinary traditions aligns perfectly with the concept of eclectic cuisine.

  • The answer is self-referential, the circled letters spell "ENT," a tree-like creature in J.R.R. “Ent” is the name for Tolkien’s tree creatures in The Lord of the Rings.

  • The clue "Makes amends?" with a question mark suggests a playful or pun-like interpretation. "Makes amends" can imply correcting or fixing something, much like "edits" refer to revising or amending written text. This wordplay connects "edits" with the act of making adjustments or improvements.

  • The LYRE is a stringed musical instrument, like a zither, where strings are plucked to produce sound. Both are part of the same instrument family, designed for melodic and harmonic playing. While their shapes differ, their functionality makes the LYRE a "relative" of the zither.

  • The solution "NOEL" fits the clue "Caroler's tune" because "Noel" is a term for Christmas, often appearing in carols. Traditional holiday songs frequently include the word "Noel," derived from French, meaning "Christmas." It’s a common theme in festive singing, aligning perfectly with the clue.

  • "OMS" is the solution because it refers to the sacred sound "Om," often chanted in meditation or yoga practices to clear the mind and center oneself. The plural form "Oms" indicates multiple repetitions of this chant, aligning with the clue “chants.”

  • The phrase "Takes down to the studs" refers to stripping something completely, like a building during renovation, leaving only the basic framework. Similarly, to "gut" something means to remove its interior entirely, aligning perfectly with this clue. Hence, the answer is GUTS.

  • The answer "CASEY" refers to "Casey at the Bat," a famous poem by Ernest Lawrence Thayer. Casey is the "mighty" batter for the Mudville baseball team, known for his confidence but infamous for striking out in the poem's dramatic finish.

  • The answer is CCLEF because the alto clef, also called the C clef, is the symbol used for the viola's music staff. Unlike treble or bass clefs, it designates middle C's position on the staff, which is standard for reading viola music.

  • The clue "Goon" here refers to a brute or thug but can also mean someone behaving foolishly or mimicking others in an exaggerated way. "APE" works as the answer because it means to imitate or mimic, often in a silly or exaggerated manner, aligning with "Goon" as behavior.

  • This one’s a slow-burn delight. “Nine times out of ten” is an idiom meaning something that occurs frequently, or OFTEN. That very word is hiding right inside the phrase. It’s a satisfying “aha” when the penny drops: the full entry is a figurative definition of the embedded word. This one is especially fun because of the layered logic; the clue is descriptive and numeric, while the circled word is the distilled concept. A nice example of how a phrase we hear all the time becomes literalized into a crossword answer.

  • The clue "Tart or torte" refers to types of sweet dishes. Both a tart and a torte are baked goods typically served as sweets, fitting the broader category of DESSERT. The answer encompasses these items under this shared culinary classification. This is a straightforward definition-based clue.

  • The clue "R.p.m. gauge, for short" refers to a tachometer, a device measuring revolutions per minute (R.p.m.) in vehicles. "For short" signals an abbreviation, making TACH the correct answer as it's a common shorthand for tachometer.

  • RON is the solution because it refers to Ron Swanson, a main character on Parks and Recreation. Known for his love of fishing, meat, and rugged hobbies, this quote perfectly aligns with his stoic, no-nonsense personality and humorous disdain for modern trends like yoga.

  • The answer "OLE" fits because it's a common chant heard in stadiums during sports events, especially in soccer (football). It’s an enthusiastic exclamation often used to celebrate skillful plays or victories, originating from Spanish flamenco culture. The clue’s emphasis on "chant" aligns with "OLE" being a vocal cheer.

  • The answer "HRREP" refers to a "Human Resources Representative." HR representatives are corporate workers responsible for employee development, such as training, performance management, and career growth. The clue directly ties to HR's focus on fostering employee growth and development within a corporation, making "HRREP" the fitting solution.

  • On the game show "Let's Make a Deal," contestants often choose a "DOOR" (Door #1, Door #2, or Door #3) to reveal a prize or a "Zonk." The word "choice" in the clue refers to this classic decision-making format on the show.

  • The answer is DRAW because it cleverly unites the actions of "duelists," who draw their weapons (e.g., swords or pistols), and "doodlers," who draw by creating sketches or designs. The clue plays on the shared meaning of "draw" across these contexts.

  • This is one of the cleverest theme entries. A pacifist’s renouncement is, in essence, a rejection of violence, and fists are a classic symbol of that. The circled word FISTS appears in sequence within the phrase, making the entire entry a kind of redefinition of that word.

  • OSHA stands for the Occupational Safety and Health Administration, a U.S. government agency responsible for ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for employees by setting and enforcing standards. As an organization focused on employee welfare, it directly fits the clue "Employee welfare org."

  • A scratched record often causes the needle to jump or skip over parts of the recording, interrupting the playback. The word "issue" in the clue refers to this problem or malfunction, and "skip" accurately describes the result of playing a damaged record.

  • The clue "Stick out" means to protrude or extend noticeably. BULGE fits perfectly as it describes something that swells or projects outward, sticking out from a surface or shape, matching the straightforward definition of the clue.

  • The answer is POE because Edgar Allan Poe, in his most famous poem "The Raven," rhymes "Lenore" with 19 different words. This iconic poem revolves around the sorrow of a man mourning the loss of Lenore, showcasing Poe's masterful use of rhyme and repetition.

  • The clue "See 75-Down" indicates that the answer to this entry is directly tied to the clue or answer at 75-Down. If 75-Down referred to something like "Dessert in a saying about ease," the phrase "as easy as PIE" would fit. The connection depends on 75-Down’s explanation.

  • The answer is ETAS, which stands for "Estimated Times of Arrival." GPS devices calculate arrival times based on distance, speed, and traffic, making ETAS a fitting solution for "Some GPS calculations." The plural "ETAS" matches the clue's use of "Some," indicating multiple estimations.

  • The clue "Ax handlers, perhaps" involves wordplay. "Ax" is slang for a guitar, and "handlers" suggests people who manage or take care of it. ROADIES are crew members who transport, set up, and manage equipment, including guitars, for musical performers. Hence, ROADIES fits perfectly.

  • This beautiful entry hides EARTH within the poetic phrase “our home near the Sun.” This was the first theme entry where the trick clicked for many solvers, thanks to its clear imagery and literal accuracy. It’s lovely because it’s both true and lyrical, a blend of clue and answer embedded in one phrase.

  • The A.F.L.-CIO refers to the American Federation of Labor and Congress of Industrial Organizations, a major federation of trade unions in the U.S. The clue references this well-known labor organization, with "CIO" completing the abbreviation.

  • The clue "Hardware/software expert, in brief" hints at a professional knowledgeable in both areas. "In brief" suggests an abbreviation. "IT" stands for Information Technology, encompassing hardware and software expertise, and "PRO" refers to a professional. Together, "ITPRO" succinctly describes such an expert.

  • The clue "Exposed" directly relates to "outed" as they both indicate revealing something that was hidden or secret. To "out" someone or something means to disclose private or concealed information, aligning perfectly with the idea of being "exposed." This definition makes OUTED the correct solution.

  • The answer is HERB because it refers to a type of plant. In the U.S., it’s pronounced “erb” (silent 'H'), while in the U.K., it's pronounced with a hard 'H' (“herb”). This difference in pronunciation makes HERB the correct fit for the clue's hint.

  • The clue "Geez Louise!" suggests an exclamation or reaction, possibly directed at someone. "Man" is often used informally or colloquially to express frustration, surprise, or disbelief, fitting the tone of "Geez Louise!" as an emphatic interjection or reaction.

  • The clue "Some fine art" points to a medium often used in fine art: oil paints, commonly referred to as "oils." Artists frequently create fine art pieces like landscapes or portraits using oil paints, making "OILS" a fitting answer.

  • The answer "TOGO" works for "Remaining" because it plays on the phrase “to go,” often used to describe something left or still needed (e.g., "5 miles to go" means 5 miles remaining). This clever wordplay turns a common phrase into the crossword answer.

  • The Kentucky Derby is famously known as the "Run for the Roses" because the winning horse is draped with a garland of red roses. This symbolic floral arrangement is the prize, making ROSES the correct answer for this clue.

  • The phrase “cast a really long look” is essentially a verbose way to say STARE, which also happens to be embedded in the middle of the entry. The elegance here is in how naturally the clue is phrased, almost like something you’d hear in casual speech. Once you see the circled letters, the clue reads as a perfect definition.

  • The clue "Ajar, say" uses "say" to indicate a synonym or similar meaning. "Ajar" describes something partially open, like a door, and "UNSHUT" also means not fully closed. It directly fits this definition, making it a clear match for the answer.

  • The answer is OAK because Oak Park is a well-known suburb of Chicago, Illinois. It is famous for its historic architecture, including many Frank Lloyd Wright-designed homes, and its proximity to the city of Chicago. The blank in the clue hints at completing the name "Oak Park."

  • The solution is OUTKAST because they are a hip-hop duo consisting of André 3000 and Big Boi, known for their iconic hit song "Hey Ya." The clue directly references the artists behind this widely recognized track, making OUTKAST the clear answer.

  • STAIN is the solution because it is a product commonly sold in the paint department of hardware or home improvement stores. Stains are used to color or protect wood surfaces, making it a logical fit for the clue. The clue directly hints at a tangible product.

  • This entry closes the theme set on a delightfully sharp note. The phrase “mouse eradicator” evokes only one creature: a CAT, which is hiding right in the middle of the entry. The clue is humorous and precise, “eradicator” lends a formal, almost exaggerated tone to what is a common predator/prey relationship.

  • The clue specifies "Write by hand not using cursive," which directly points to PRINT. Printing refers to writing letters individually without connecting them, as opposed to cursive, where letters are joined. The explicit mention of "not using cursive" makes PRINT the clear and logical answer.

  • The clue "Previously" directly means "at one time in the past," which aligns with the definition of the word "ONCE." It's a straightforward synonym, as "ONCE" indicates something that happened earlier or before now. Hence, ONCE is the correct answer for this clue.

  • The clue "The ___ is …" is a partial phrase where the word "THING" completes it into common expressions like "The thing is …" used to introduce explanations or thoughts in conversation. It's a familiar idiomatic structure, making THING the fitting answer.

  • The clue "At this point" refers to a specific location or moment. The word "HERE" directly conveys being in a specific place or moment in time, aligning perfectly with the clue’s meaning. It emphasizes the immediate presence or position, making it a fitting answer.

  • The answer is SALT because, according to superstition, spilling salt is considered bad luck, and tossing a pinch over one’s left shoulder is believed to ward off evil spirits or bad fortune. This act is tied to old beliefs in the protective power of salt.

  • The answer is BEHR because it’s a well-known paint brand whose logo features a bear, which is the animal referred to in the clue. The brand name itself phonetically resembles "bear," strengthening the connection to its animal-themed logo.

  • The clue "Ditto!" is enclosed in quotes, indicating a spoken phrase. "Ditto!" is commonly used to express agreement or that something applies to oneself as well. The phrase "SO DO I" mirrors this sentiment, making "SODOI" the fitting solution.

  • The clue "Onetime high-speed fliers, for short" refers to supersonic transport planes, specifically the Concorde. These aircraft, known for their high speed, were abbreviated as "SSTs" (Supersonic Transports). Since they're no longer in operation ("onetime"), SSTS fits perfectly as the short-form answer.

Down

  • The clue "So what's ___ you?" is conversational and incomplete, implying a phrase completion. The answer "ITTO" completes it as "So what's it to you?"—a colloquial expression meaning "Why do you care?" or questioning someone’s interest in something. The casual tone fits the phrasing perfectly.

  • The answer, MYOB, stands for "Mind Your Own Business," a common initialism used as a curt response to someone who's being overly inquisitive or prying into matters that don't concern them. The clue's phrasing directly hints at this shorthand expression.

  • The clue uses wordplay: "Things you hope your dinner guests bring" humorously suggests something intangible. A host wishes guests to arrive hungry to enjoy the meal, emphasizing their "APPETITES." It's not about physical items, but their readiness to eat, making APPETITES the fitting answer.

  • The clue "Alternatives to cabernets" refers to types of red wine. Cabernet Sauvignon is a popular red wine, and MERLOTS is another well-known red wine variety, making it a fitting alternative. Both are grape varietals commonly enjoyed by wine enthusiasts, aligning perfectly with the clue.

  • The clue "Copenhagen language, to locals" hints at how locals refer to their own language. In Denmark, the term for the Danish language in Danish is "Dansk." Since Copenhagen is in Denmark, the locals would naturally call their language "Dansk," making it the correct answer.

  • The answer "RIKKI" refers to the Steely Dan song "Rikki Don't Lose That Number". In the lyrics, Rikki is the woman being addressed directly, making her name the solution to the clue. The clue directly quotes the song, ensuring the connection.

  • The Arizona Diamondbacks (nicknamed the "D-backs") are a Major League Baseball team. On sports tickers, team abbreviations are used, and "ARI" is the standard abbreviation for Arizona. Hence, "ARI" represents the D-backs in this context.

  • The clue references the famous Jeopardy! catchphrase used by contestants selecting a category. KEN Jennings is a legendary Jeopardy! champion, making "KEN" the fitting answer in this playful, trivia-inspired clue. The quotation marks signal a spoken phrase and wordplay referencing the game show icon.

  • "ERG" is the solution because it is a unit of work or energy in physics. Specifically, one erg is the amount of work done when a force of one dyne moves an object one centimeter. The clue refers to "work" in this scientific context.

  • A "dozen" is 12, and adding eight makes 20. The word "score" is a term that traditionally means 20. Hence, the answer "SCORE" represents the total of "eight more than a dozen."

  • The term "laymen" refers to individuals who are not experts or professionals in a particular field. "Nonprofessionals" directly aligns with this definition, as it describes people without specialized training or expertise, making LAYMEN the fitting solution.

  • The clue "Fertilized ones become embryos" refers to eggs that, when fertilized, develop into embryos. The plural form of "egg" in biological terms is "OVA," which is the Latin word for eggs. Therefore, "OVA" correctly fits the clue's description.

  • The solution "GEL" represents the process of things coming together cohesively or solidifying into a unified whole. Often used metaphorically, it describes ideas, plans, or groups that "come together" seamlessly, much like gel solidifies from a liquid state. This aligns with the clue's meaning.

  • The clue, "Cry following a countdown," describes what is typically exclaimed when a rocket launches after a countdown. The word "BLASTOFF" is commonly associated with this moment, representing the loud, energetic declaration signaling the start of the launch. It fits perfectly with this context.

  • An atrium is a large, open space typically found in buildings, often featuring skylights or glass ceilings that let in natural light, making it bright and airy. This aligns perfectly with the clue "Open, light-filled area," describing the architectural feature's design and function.

  • The clue "Works, works, works" refers to tasks or efforts, aligning with the definition of "labors." "Labors" also means sustained physical or mental work, fitting the repetitive tone of the clue. The repeated "works" emphasizes effort, synonymous with "labors."

  • The answer "DRONE" fits because bagpipes produce a continuous, low-pitched humming sound called a "drone." This sound comes from the pipes (or drone pipes) of the instrument, which play a constant tone beneath the melody, defining the characteristic sound of bagpipes.

  • The clue "___ fresca (refreshing Latin American beverage)" points to a common drink. "Agua fresca" translates to "fresh water" in Spanish and refers to a light drink made by combining water, fruit, and sugar, popular in Latin America. "Agua" is the Spanish word for water, fitting the clue.

  • The answer "AILS" fits the clue "Afflicts" because "ails" means to cause pain, trouble, or discomfort, which aligns directly with the definition of "afflicts." Both words are synonyms in the context of causing harm or suffering, making "AILS" a precise solution for the clue.

  • The answer is RARE because $2 bills are uncommon in circulation in the United States, making them a rarity. This clue uses a straightforward comparison to describe something infrequent or unusual, like the $2 bill. Hence, RARE fits perfectly.

  • The phrase "fell to" means something became one's responsibility or duty, often due to circumstances. For example, "The task fell to me." The clue "Became the duty of" directly aligns with this meaning, making FELLTO the correct answer.

  • The clue "Besides" refers to something additional or alternative. "Else" is synonymous with "besides" when used to indicate other options or possibilities. For example, "What else could it be?" aligns with this meaning, making "ELSE" the perfect fit for the clue.

  • The clue "Russian rebuff" points to a refusal or rejection in Russian. "Nyet" directly translates to "no" in Russian, making it the perfect answer for a rebuff coming from Russia. Its simplicity and direct translation align perfectly with the clue.

  • The clue "You don't know what you're missing!" suggests trying something firsthand to understand its value or experience. The phrasing encourages action—hence, the answer "TRY IT," as it matches the idea of discovering what you're missing by giving something a chance.

  • The answer is COCO because it is a Pixar film set in the Land of the Dead. The movie follows Miguel, a boy who journeys there during Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) to uncover his family’s history. Its vivid portrayal links directly to the clue.

  • The answer is RECUR because "happen again" directly defines the word. To recur means to occur repeatedly or happen again after an interval. It perfectly matches the straightforward intent of the clue, with no wordplay or additional layers involved.

  • The phrase "Old-style 'OMG!'" signals an exclamation of surprise or astonishment, but in an antiquated, formal tone. "EGAD" was historically used as an expression of shock or amazement, akin to saying "Oh my goodness!" in older English, making it a perfect fit for this clue.

  • The clue "Fool" is a straightforward definition. "DUPE" means to deceive or trick someone, which aligns with the idea of a "fool"—someone easily deceived. This fits perfectly as both a noun (a person fooled) and a verb (to fool). Hence, DUPE is the correct answer.

  • CIRRI is the plural of "cirrus," which are high-altitude clouds made of ice crystals. They appear as thin, wispy streaks in the sky, matching the description in the clue. The clue's straightforward nature points to this scientific term for these specific cloud formations.

  • The clue "Pile of chips, maybe?" uses wordplay. In poker, an "ante" is a small forced bet (often represented by chips) required from all players before a hand starts. These "antes" could form a "pile of chips," fitting the clue's playful intent.

  • The clue "Many, many moons" uses "moons" metaphorically to signify a very long time. An "EON" is a vast expanse of time, often millions or billions of years, fitting the description perfectly as it represents an extremely long duration.

  • The answer "NERF" fits the clue "___ ball" because NERF is a product line of soft foam toys, including balls, often used for safe, indoor play. This clue hints at the well-known brand synonymous with soft, safe balls typically used for games or fun without risk of damage or injury.

  • The clue "Did as expected on the links" references golf terminology. In golf, "par" is the standard score for a hole. To "make par" (MADEPAR) is to finish the hole in the expected number of strokes, aligning with "did as expected." The "links" refers to a golf course.

  • The clue "Class with many graphs, in brief" points to ECON, short for economics. Economics classes often involve analyzing data visualized through graphs, such as supply-demand curves or market trends. The phrase "in brief" signals the need for an abbreviation, making ECON the perfect fit.

  • The clue "Beat it!" is in quotes, indicating a spoken phrase. "Shoo" is a common exclamation used to tell someone or something (like an animal) to go away quickly—essentially commanding them to "beat it" or leave. It fits the idiomatic tone perfectly.

  • The clue "Sped" refers to moving quickly or rushing. The past tense "Sped" aligns with the answer "TORE," as "tore" is the past tense of "tear," meaning to move quickly or rush forward. Both words share the idea of rapid action, making "TORE" the apt solution.

  • The answer "ELAN" fits the clue "Stylish vigor" because "élan" is a French word often used in English to describe energy, enthusiasm, and stylish flair. It conveys a spirited liveliness combined with an elegant or confident style, perfectly aligning with the clue's description.

  • The answer "NEWT" fits because it is a type of amphibian, specifically in California, known for its slippery skin that secretes a potent toxin called tetrodotoxin. This toxin can be lethal to humans, aligning with the clue's description.

  • The clue "Branch of Islam" points to SHIA, one of the two primary sects of Islam, alongside Sunni. SHIA Muslims emphasize the leadership of Ali, Prophet Muhammad's cousin and son-in-law, and his descendants. It’s a direct and factual answer based on Islamic religious divisions.

  • The clue refers to the fact that there are 8 pints in a gallon, and "Abbr." indicates the answer will be an abbreviation. "PTS" is short for "pints," perfectly fitting the clue.

  • The answer "RUB" refers to a seasoning blend often used in cooking, particularly for grilling or roasting. A "rub" is a mix of spices and seasonings that is literally rubbed onto meat or other foods to enhance flavor, fitting the clue perfectly.

  • The answer "DMED" is short for "direct messaged," a common term for privately contacting someone on social media platforms like Instagram, Twitter, or Facebook. The clue specifies "for short," signaling the use of the abbreviation, which aligns with the term "DM" for direct message.

  • The clue "Fuzz" is a playful term often used as slang for police or law enforcement. The answer "POPO" is another slang term for police, commonly used in casual or humorous contexts. The clue indicates wordplay, signaling this non-literal, slang interpretation.

  • The phrase "Not worth ___" is commonly completed as "Not worth a sou." A sou was a small, low-value coin in France, and the term has come to mean something insignificant or worthless. Here, "a sou" fits perfectly as the answer.

  • The clue uses wordplay with "doesn't sound very selfish." "Cher" is a homophone for "share," suggesting selflessness. As an iconic entertainer, Cher fits the description, while the pun involves the similarity in pronunciation between "Cher" and "share." Hence, the answer is CHER.

  • The answer "SKEE" refers to "Skee-Ball," a popular arcade game where players roll balls up an inclined lane to score points by landing them in rings of varying point values. The clue “___-Ball” signals the commonly known game name.

  • RITA is the solution because Rita Wilson is an actress who appeared in the movie "Runaway Bride." She is also well-known as an accomplished actress and producer, making her a fitting answer for this clue.

  • The answer "NURSE" fits the clue "Breastfeed" because "to nurse" is a synonym for breastfeeding, as it refers to feeding a baby with breast milk. This term is commonly used to describe the act of providing nourishment in this way.

  • The clue "Obscure" hints at something that blocks clarity or visibility, aligning with the idea of a "cloud," which obscures the sky or vision. Additionally, "cloud" can metaphorically represent confusion or lack of clarity, making it a fitting answer.

  • The answer is EGAN because Jennifer Egan is the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of "A Visit From the Goon Squad", a novel published in 2010. The clue directly references her as the writer, making EGAN the correct solution.

  • The clue, "With 75-Across, hearty baked entree," works together with the answer at 75-Across, which is related to "PIE." Together, "POT" and "PIE" form "POT PIE," a well-known hearty baked dish typically filled with meat and vegetables.

  • The clue "Bring to the country" refers to the act of bringing goods or products into a nation. The word "IMPORT" precisely means to bring in items from another country for trade, sale, or use, making it the perfect fit for the clue's definition.

  • The clue "Hair-raising" refers to something spine-chilling or unsettling, evoking a sense of fear or unease. The word "EERIE" perfectly fits, as it describes something strange and creepy, often causing a figurative "hair-raising" sensation due to its unsettling nature.

  • At a bar's closing time, bar stools are often turned upside down and placed on tables to clean the floor or signal closure. The clue uses this common practice as wordplay, making "STOOL" the apt answer for the "item turned upside down."

  • The clue "They barely scratch the surface" uses a pun. Ice skates glide across the surface of ice, barely scratching it as they cut through. The wordplay connects the idea of minimal surface impact with the action of ice skates, making ICESKATES the fitting answer.

  • The answer is EIRE because it is the Irish name for Ireland, appearing on official Irish symbols, including stamps. Ireland's native language, Irish (Gaeilge), uses "Éire" as the country's name, making it a fitting choice for this crossword clue.

  • The clue "Blubbers" refers to the act of crying noisily and emotionally. This directly aligns with the word "SOBS," which means loud, gasping cries typically associated with weeping. The plural form "blubbers" matches the plural "sobs," making it the correct answer.

  • The clue, "…if you get my drift," suggests a conversational tone and implies giving a subtle suggestion. The repeated "HINT" in the answer, HINTHINT, reflects an emphasis on subtly pointing something out or nudging someone to understand ("get my drift"). It's a playful, spoken phrase.

  • "The Big Easy" is a well-known nickname for New Orleans, Louisiana. The clue asks for a "brief" answer, prompting the abbreviation. NOLA is a commonly used shorthand for New Orleans, LA (Louisiana), making it the perfect concise solution to this clue.

  • The Nebula Award honors works of science fiction and fantasy, and its "cousin," the Hugo Award, is another prestigious accolade in the same genres. Both are highly regarded in speculative fiction, making HUGO the fitting answer to the clue "Cousin of a Nebula Award."

  • ETON is the answer because the clue refers to Eton College, which was historically founded as "Kynge's College of Our Ladye of Eton besyde Windesore" in 1440 by King Henry VI. It is located near Windsor, aligning with the old spelling in the clue.

  • The clue "Pipes smoked at some lounges" directly refers to HOOKAHS, which are water pipes commonly used for smoking flavored tobacco (shisha) in social settings, particularly lounges or hookah bars. The plural "pipes" matches "HOOKAHS," making it the fitting answer.

  • The answer "MANTRA" fits because a mantra is a word, sound, or phrase that is repeated frequently, often for meditation or spiritual practices. The emphasis on repetition in the clue directly aligns with the nature of a mantra, making it the accurate solution.

  • The solution "ASSAIL" fits the clue "Attack" because "assail" is a synonym for attacking forcefully, whether verbally or physically. This clue uses a straightforward definition, meaning no additional wordplay or context is needed beyond knowing the definition of "assail" as "to attack."

  • The clue "Incompetent person, so to speak" uses wordplay. "Slouch" metaphorically refers to someone who is ineffective or not very capable (e.g., "no slouch" means the opposite). The phrase "so to speak" hints at this figurative interpretation, making SLOUCH a fitting answer.

  • The clue "Rug rat" is a playful term referring to a small child, often crawling or toddling, much like they might on a rug. "Tyke" is an informal synonym for a young child or toddler, making it the fitting answer to this clue.

  • ROTC stands for Reserve Officers' Training Corps, a military program often based on college campuses. It trains students to become officers in the armed forces. The clue "Campus mil. group" directly points to a military group (mil.) found on campuses, making ROTC the fitting answer.

  • The word "Thresholds" refers to points of transition or boundaries. "CUSPS" aligns perfectly as it describes the pointed ends or transitional points of something, such as astral signs or the edges of change, making it an apt synonym for thresholds in a figurative sense.

  • Patty and Selma are sisters of Marge Simpson from The Simpsons. Bart and Lisa Simpson are Marge's children, making Patty and Selma their aunts. This familial relationship explains why "AUNT" is the answer.

  • The answer is LASER because lasers are a common and effective medical technology used to remove tattoos. They work by breaking down the tattoo ink particles in the skin, which are then absorbed and eliminated by the body over time. This aligns perfectly with the clue.

  • The clue "You couldn't be more wrong!" is in quotes, indicating a conversational phrase. The emphatic "GOD NO" aligns perfectly as an exaggerated, spoken expression of strong disagreement or disbelief, matching the tone and context of the clue's meaning.

  • The answer is LUIGI because Luigi is the brother of Mario, iconic characters from the "Super Mario" video game series. Together, they are known as the Mario Brothers, making Luigi a perfect fit for "Video game brother."

  • The word "Ilk" refers to a type, kind, or category of something, and "SORT" shares the same meaning as a group or classification. This synonym connection makes "SORT" the appropriate answer for the clue "Ilk."

  • The clue "Square root of nueve" includes a Spanish indicator ("nueve" is "nine" in Spanish). The square root of 9 is 3, and since the clue uses Spanish, the answer must also be in Spanish. "Three" in Spanish is "TRES," making it the correct solution.

  • The clue includes "say," indicating a possible metaphor or example. On Black Friday, shoppers often form large, chaotic crowds. "MOB" aptly describes this overwhelming group, aligning with the clue's implication. The term captures the energetic, unruly nature of such shopping events perfectly.

  • The clue "Half and half" refers to splitting something into two equal parts. When you take one whole and divide it into two halves, each half is one. Thus, "ONE" represents one-half of the whole, making it the correct answer for the clue.

  • The solution is ETS, short for "extraterrestrials." The phrase "We come in peace" is commonly associated with aliens in science fiction, and "in brief" indicates an abbreviation. Hence, extraterrestrials (aliens) are aptly shortened to ETS here.

  • The clue "Pi follower" refers to the Greek alphabet, where Pi (π) is followed by the letter Rho (ρ). Therefore, RHO is the correct answer as it directly follows Pi in the Greek alphabetic sequence.

  • The clue "Help" directly corresponds to the word "AID," as both mean to provide assistance or support. "Help" is a straightforward synonym for "AID," matching the simple and direct nature of the clue without additional wordplay or hidden meanings.

Today’s Game Difficulty

3 / 5
Normal

Rate Your Difficulty

Rate This Solver

View Yesterday's Puzzle

Solving today’s NYT The Crossword Puzzle and stuck on the 8-letter answer to the "… if you get my drift" clue? Don’t worry—Lady Puzzle Pro is here to help! Whether you need the answer right away, want to reveal it letter by letter, or just can’t figure out a tricky clue, we’ve got you. You can even solve the whole Crossword puzzle of the day right here!

"… if you get my drift" Answer Explained

The answer is HINTHINT.

This clue mimics the way we drop hints subtly (or not-so-subtly) in conversation. The phrase “if you get my drift” is often used when someone implies something without stating it outright. The answer HINTHINT is a playful way to represent that kind of wink-wink-nudge-nudge communication. Doubling “hint” captures the casual, suggestive tone of the phrase; it’s like a comedic or exaggerated version of what someone might actually say. This entry leans into conversational humor and showcases how crossword clues can echo natural speech with clever twisty wordplay.

Now that you've cracked the 85D "… if you get my drift" clue, you're one step closer to completing today’s Mini Puzzle! If you're still stuck on other clues, don't worry—we've got you covered. Explore more NYT Crossword answers right here, or check out our tools for solving the NYT The Mini, Connections, or Strands.

Today’s NYT The Crossword Highlights

Mike Hobin’s Sunday NYT crossword, All-In-Clue-sive, is a clever, layered construction that rewards patient solvers and close readers. The theme hinges on a deceptively simple prompt — [Apt clue for the circled letters] — repeated seven times. But the actual clue is hidden within the entry itself, with the circled letters spelling a word or phrase that the full entry cryptically defines. The genius is in the misdirection: solvers must reverse their usual process, treating answers as clues. From the elegant “NINE TIMES OUT OF TEN” hiding “OFTEN” to the punny “MOUSE ERADICATOR” for “CAT,” every theme entry plays double-duty. A sly, satisfying Sunday treat.

Here’s what caught our attention today:

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 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.