Good person - NYT The Crossword Clue

The answer is "HALT" because it is a command typically shouted by guards to stop someone approaching or fleeing, often from a guard tower. The clue uses "Cry," indicating a loud, authoritative verbal order, aligning perfectly with "HALT's" usage in such scenarios.

The clue "Imaginary fiends" suggests malevolent entities often depicted in myths or folklore. "Imaginary" hints at fictional rather than real beings, and "fiends" refers to evildoers or evil spirits. DEMONS fits as they are commonly portrayed as sinister, supernatural entities from imagination or legend.

The clue "Assign a number, maybe?" suggests evaluating or giving a numeric value, such as scoring or ranking something. "RATE" fits perfectly, as it means to assess or assign a numerical value (like rating a movie or performance), aligning with the wording and the hint of the question mark for wordplay.

The clue "Takes orders at a restaurant" refers to the role of a waiter or server, who literally takes food and drink orders from customers. The answer, WAITS, plays on the dual meaning of "waiting tables" (serving) and "waiting" (being attentive to customers).

The Otoe are a Native American tribe originally from the Great Plains region, particularly in present-day Nebraska, Kansas, and Iowa. Historically, they were part of the Siouan-speaking tribes. The clue directly refers to them as a Great Plains tribe, making OTOE the correct answer.

The clue "I'll be right with you" is enclosed in quotes, signaling a spoken phrase. "In a sec" is a common, casual way of saying "just a moment" or "I'll be there shortly," which matches the sentiment of the clue perfectly. Hence, the answer is INASEC.

The name "OLAV" transforms into the shape "OVAL" when you switch the second ("L") and fourth ("V") letters. This wordplay aligns with the clue's instruction and pun. "Oval" is a shape, making OLAV the correct answer to this creative and playful clue.

The clue "They might leave you in stitches, for short" uses a pun. "In stitches" can mean laughter but also refers to actual stitches in a medical setting. ERDOCS, short for Emergency Room doctors, are the ones who treat injuries requiring stitches, fitting both the humor and medical aspects.

The clue "Not marbled, say" refers to meat. "Marbled" describes meat with streaks of fat. "Not marbled" indicates meat without fat, which is "LEAN." The word "say" implies a descriptive or interpretive answer, fitting "LEAN" as a description of such meat.

The clue "Electronic music genre" directly describes a category of music that relies heavily on electronic instruments and production. TECHNO is a popular genre within electronic music, known for its repetitive beats, synthesized sounds, and futuristic vibe, making it the accurate answer here.

In Pai gow, a traditional Chinese gambling game, players use domino-like pieces called "tiles." These tiles feature various patterns and are central to forming winning combinations in the game. Hence, "tile" is the correct answer for this game piece clue.

The clue "Relieve" directly relates to easing, calming, or alleviating distress or discomfort. "SOOTHE" perfectly fits as it means to comfort or alleviate pain or trouble, effectively acting as a synonym for "Relieve." This alignment in meaning makes SOOTHE the appropriate solution for the clue.

The phrase "They have seniority" refers to individuals who are older or have higher rank due to age or experience. "Elders" fits perfectly, as it commonly describes older people who are respected for their wisdom, experience, and seniority within a group or society.

The answer "BEET" fits the clue "Bit of red in a salad" because beets are a common salad ingredient known for their deep red (or reddish-purple) color. "Bit" indicates a small portion, referencing how salads often feature sliced or diced beets as a component.

The clue "What accepts all cookies?" uses a playful pun. While "accepts all cookies" might initially evoke internet terminology, the literal answer is an OVEN, as it is the appliance that physically "accepts" and bakes all types of cookies.

The clue "Bottom" uses wordplay, hinting at a slang term for the buttocks. "TUSHIE" is a playful and informal term often used to refer to one's bottom. Its lighthearted tone aligns perfectly with the clue's suggestion.

The term "SOTTO" comes from the Italian phrase "sotto voce," meaning "under the voice." In musical scores, "sotto" directs performers to play or sing softly or subdued, essentially "under" in volume. The clue's mention of "score" hints at musical notation, leading to SOTTO.

The phrase "___ of all" typically means "the smallest amount or degree" when completed with "least." "Least of all" suggests the minimum or smallest extent, fitting perfectly in this context. It aligns with the common idiomatic usage.

The clue "They might be padded" uses wordplay. "RESUMES" can be "padded" when people exaggerate or embellish their qualifications, experiences, or skills to seem more impressive when applying for jobs. This figurative "padding" aligns with the clue's playful phrasing.

In the 2000 movie The Gift, the protagonist, played by Cate Blanchett, possesses extrasensory perception (ESP) — a "gift" that allows her to see visions and uncover hidden truths. This supernatural ability is central to the film's plot, making ESP the fitting answer.

The clue "Here, in Paris" includes the phrase "in Paris," indicating that the answer will be in French. The French word for "here" is ICI. Thus, the solution is ICI.

PEAT is partially decayed organic matter found in bogs, traditionally dried and used as fuel. It serves as an alternative energy source, especially in regions with limited access to wood or coal. This fits "Alternative fuel source" as PEAT is a renewable alternative to conventional fossil fuels.

The clue "___ Noël" refers to "Père Noël," which is French for "Father Christmas," or Santa Claus. The blank is filled with "Père," meaning "father" in French, commonly paired with "Noël" (Christmas) as a cultural reference to Santa Claus in French-speaking regions.

In yoga, "Oms" are the sacred sounds often chanted during meditation or practice. The syllable "Om" represents universal consciousness and is a key spiritual sound in yoga traditions. The plural form "Oms" reflects the clue's plural "sounds," making it the accurate solution.

The clue "'60s war zone" refers to the Vietnam War, a major conflict during the 1960s. "Nam" is a common abbreviated slang for Vietnam, often used in casual or historical contexts to reference the war or location. Thus, NAM is the correct answer.

The answer is ELPHABA because she is the main character and protagonist in the musical Wicked. The story reimagines the world of The Wizard of Oz and focuses on Elphaba, the Wicked Witch of the West, exploring her origins and misunderstood nature.

The solution "UEY" refers to a U-turn, represented phonetically. Crossword clues that involve informal or slang terms, like "U-turn" in this case, often use variations of pronunciation for an answer. "UEY" is a common shorthand or slang spelling for executing a U-turn.

The clue "Acknowledge silently" suggests a nonverbal action. To silently acknowledge something, one might give a small nod. The phrase "NOD AT" literally describes this act (to nod at someone or something as acknowledgment). Thus, "NODAT" fits the clue perfectly as the solution.

The phrase "Leave be" means to let something remain as it is, undisturbed. "Let lie" is a synonymous phrase, where "let" implies allowing and "lie" refers to something staying in its state. Together, "LETLIE" perfectly captures this idea of leaving something alone.

The answer "GOB" fits the clue "Big hunk" as "gob" can mean a large lump or chunk of something, like food or material. It's often used informally to describe a substantial portion, aligning with the idea of a "big hunk."

The clue "Many idol worshipers" suggests a playful interpretation. "TWEENS" (kids aged 9–12) are known for passionately following pop idols, celebrities, or trends, making them stereotypical "idol worshipers." The pun lies in the exaggeration of their enthusiasm for their idols. Hence, TWEENS fits perfectly.

The answer is SHEL because Shel Silverstein was a renowned cartoonist, author, and poet, known for his works in Playboy magazine and children’s books like The Giving Tree. The clue directly refers to his first name, making "SHEL" the correct solution.

The clue "Took an hour off mid-day, say" suggests a common activity during a midday break. "Had lunch" is a typical way to spend such a break, taking about an hour. The phrase matches the clue's description of a mid-day pause, aligning perfectly with the answer HADLUNCH.

The clue "Phrase cooed en español" suggests a romantic or affectionate phrase in Spanish. "Te amo" translates to "I love you" in English and is often cooed or spoken tenderly. The phrase matches both the language indicator (en español) and the context of cooed affection.

The clue specifies "as Spanish wine," indicating the answer is in Spanish. "Seco" is the Spanish word for "dry," which is commonly used to describe wine that is not sweet. It directly matches both the language and the meaning of the clue.

STBEDE refers to Saint Bede, an English monk from the 7th–8th century. He earned the title "The Father of English History" for his influential work Ecclesiastical History of the English People. "ST" is an abbreviation for "Saint," commonly used in religious contexts. Thus, STBEDE perfectly fits the clue.

The answer "DECO" refers to Art Deco, a design style from the 1920s-30s characterized by strong geometric shapes, bold lines, and symmetry. "Familiarly" indicates a shortened or colloquial form of "Art Deco," making "DECO" the fitting solution here.

The answer "ERRING" means making a mistake or straying from correctness, which directly aligns with the clue "Going wrong." In this context, "erring" effectively captures the act of being in error or deviating from the proper path, making it a precise solution.

The ERHU is a traditional Chinese musical instrument with two strings, often referred to as the "Chinese two-stringed fiddle." Known for its unique, expressive sound, it is a fitting solution for the clue, as it directly matches the description of a two-stringed Chinese instrument.

The phrase "Gave a hoot" means to show concern or care about something. The answer "CARED" directly aligns with this meaning, as caring demonstrates interest or concern—essentially "giving a hoot." No wordplay or additional tricks apply here; it's a straightforward synonym.

The clue "Gentleman's disagreement?" ends with a question mark, signaling wordplay. "No, sir" is a polite, formal way a gentleman might express disagreement. Written as NOSIR, it fits cleverly with the idea of a gentleman's courteous but firm refusal. The pun lies in the phrase's reinterpretation.

RSS stands for "Really Simple Syndication," which is a web feed format used to deliver regularly updated content, such as blog posts or news headlines, from websites. The clue specifies "Website feed inits.," making RSS the correct abbreviation to answer the clue.

The clue "Basketball shooter's lament" suggests something a basketball shooter might say after failing to score. The phrase "I MISSED" is a direct expression of disappointment for missing a shot, aligning perfectly with the clue's description of a lament. It’s brief and conversational, fitting the context.

The clue "Flattering lines" hints at a form of poetic expression that offers praise or admiration. An ODE is a type of lyrical poem that often celebrates or flatters its subject, aligning perfectly with the clue's description. The "lines" refer to lines of poetry in the ode.

The clue "Subj. for John Maynard Keynes" refers to the subject area John Maynard Keynes is famously associated with: economics. "ECON" is a common abbreviation for economics, making it the correct answer here. Keynes was a foundational economist known for his theories on government intervention in economies.

The answer is ETON because John Maynard Keynes, a renowned economist, attended Eton College, one of the most prestigious schools in England. "Alma mater" refers to a former school or university of a person, and Eton was where Keynes studied during his early years.

The clue "Dot in la mer" includes the French phrase "la mer" (the sea). This signals the answer is in French. In French, a small "dot" or landmass in the sea is an "île," which means "island." Hence, the solution is "ILE."

The phrase "move north" metaphorically refers to going upward, and the "UP ARROW" is a keyboard key or visual indicator that moves a cursor or selection upwards on a screen. Therefore, "UPARROW" fits as the answer to the clue.

CTA is the solution because it stands for the Chicago Transit Authority, the public transportation system in Chicago, also known as the "Windy City." It operates buses and trains used for commuting, aligning perfectly with the clue's reference to a commuting organization in Chicago.

The phrase "A picture is worth a thousand words" is a well-known saying that conveys a general truth or piece of wisdom. Such sayings are commonly referred to as adages. The clue specifies "e.g." (for example), indicating the answer is a category fitting this phrase—hence, ADAGE.

The clue "Mulligans" refers to a term often used in golf, meaning a do-over or a second attempt after a mistake. Similarly, "REDOS" represents repeated attempts or doing something over again, which aligns perfectly with the concept of mulligans.

ROKU is a leading company in streaming media, offering devices and a platform for accessing TV shows, movies, and more from various streaming services. As a prominent brand in the streaming industry, "Big name in streaming" aptly refers to ROKU.

The answer "DISHON" comes from the phrase "dish on," which is slang for gossiping or telling juicy details about someone. The clue "Gossip about" directly points to this informal expression, making "dish on" a fitting solution.

The answer "RING" refers to a championship ring, a common memento awarded to winners in sports and competitions (e.g., Super Bowl, NBA Finals). It symbolizes victory and serves as a tangible keepsake for champions, aligning perfectly with the clue "Champion's memento."

The verb "resent" means to feel bitterness or displeasure toward someone or something, fitting the definition of "hold a grudge against." It captures the strong negative emotional response associated with lingering anger or offense, perfectly aligning with the clue's meaning.

The answer "ELON" refers to Elon University, a private university located in Elon, North Carolina. The clue directly asks for a university in North Carolina, and Elon is a well-known institution in the state, making it the correct solution.

The clue "See if that's OK" is a conversational phrase suggesting an action. The answer, GOASK, matches this idea—if you want to check if something is acceptable or permitted, you would "go ask" someone. The clue's casual tone aligns with the spoken phrase as the solution.

The clue "Chore-o-graph?" ends with a question mark, signaling wordplay. Here, it's a pun on "choreography" and "chore." A "To-Do List" is essentially a 'graph' (or outline) of chores/tasks to complete. Thus, "To-Do List" cleverly fits as the answer!

The clue "Significant start" is wordplay. A "dent" signifies a noticeable mark, implying a beginning or impact that's significant enough to be noticed. In other words, it's a "start" that leaves an impression—hence, "dent" fits perfectly as the answer.

The IRS, or Internal Revenue Service, is the U.S. government agency responsible for collecting taxes. The clue "Collectors' org." uses "Collectors" as a nod to tax collection, making IRS the fitting answer. The abbreviation "org." hints at it being an organization.

The answer "INPAWN" relates to the practice of pawning items. To obtain cash, one might trade a possession by leaving it as collateral at a pawnshop—essentially putting the item "in pawn" until repaid. The term directly aligns with the idea of trading something for cash.

The solution "TSLOT" describes a T-shaped slot or opening. The clue "Letter-shaped opening" directly hints at an opening resembling the letter "T," making TSLOT the correct answer. This is often seen in tools, construction, or machinery where such shaped grooves or slots are functional.

The clue "Postgrad degs." refers to advanced degrees earned after completing an undergraduate program. "MAS" stands for Master of Arts, a common postgraduate degree. The abbreviation "degs." hints at the shortened form "MAS" rather than spelling out the full term.

The answer is ESOBESO, which translates to "that kiss" in Spanish. While “Kiss me mucho” might more directly translate to bésame mucho, the clue is playing off the idea of a romantic Spanish phrase. “Eso Beso” is actually the title of a 1962 hit song by Paul Anka, making it a fitting (if slightly playful) answer tied to a well-known piece of pop music.

"EAT" works as the solution because "absorb" metaphorically means to take on or deal with, and "eat" can mean to bear or endure something unpleasant, like a financial cost. For example, "eating the cost" means accepting a loss without passing it on.

The clue "___ bin ein Berliner" requires a German phrase completion. "Ich bin ein Berliner," famously spoken by John F. Kennedy, translates to "I am a Berliner" in German. "Ich" means "I" in German, fitting the phrase grammatically and contextually.

IRIS is the answer because, in Greek mythology, Iris is the Goddess of the rainbow and a messenger of the gods. She serves as a link between heaven and earth, often depicted in art as traveling on a rainbow. The clue directly points to her role.

The answer "LOON" is correct because the common loon (Gavia immer) is the official state bird of Minnesota. This designation reflects the bird’s abundance on Minnesota’s lakes, its iconic haunting calls, and its significance in representing the state’s natural beauty and wildlife.

The phrase "___ degree" commonly refers to the utmost or highest level of something, often expressed as "to the nth degree." "Nth" is used in mathematics and figurative speech to represent an unspecified or unlimited number, making it the perfect fit for this clue.

The clue "Give bad marks" plays on the word "marks." To "mar" something means to damage, blemish, or spoil it—essentially giving it a "bad mark" or imperfection. This word perfectly fits the clue through this interpretive connection.

The clue "Reason for a successful steal, maybe" hints at a baseball play. A "steal" refers to a runner advancing a base, and "late tag" occurs when the fielder applies the tag too late to catch the runner.

RADON is a correct solution because it is a noble gas, part of Group 18 on the periodic table, known for their stability due to full electron shells. However, RADON is unstable as it is radioactive, decaying into other elements. This duality fits the "Unstable noble gas" clue perfectly.

The answer "SATIE" refers to Erik Satie, a renowned French composer known for pioneering minimalist and avant-garde music. He is famous for works like "Gymnopédies" and "Gnossiennes," making him a fitting answer to the clue about a "French composer Erik."

The clue "Eeyore-esque" refers to Eeyore, the melancholic donkey from Winnie-the-Pooh. His personality is persistently sad and dreary, which aligns with the word "GLOOMY." This adjective perfectly captures the moody, pessimistic nature associated with Eeyore.

The term "AAVE" stands for African American Vernacular English, a recognized dialect spoken primarily by Black communities in the U.S. The clue says "in brief," signaling the use of an acronym, making AAVE the concise and accurate solution for "Black dialect, in brief."

The clue "Seemingly forever" describes something that feels like it takes a very long time. "Ages" is a term used to express an extremely long duration, often figuratively. For example, "It’s been ages" emphasizes a lengthy passage of time, making it the perfect answer.

The word "Roar" describes a loud, deep sound, often associated with an animal like a lion. Similarly, "BELLOW" means to emit a loud, deep roar, often in anger or pain, making it a fitting synonym for "Roar" that matches the clue's meaning.

The clue "Soft palate appendages" refers to structures attached to the soft palate, part of the mouth. The uvula is a small, fleshy projection that hangs down from the back of the soft palate. "UVULAE" is its plural form, matching the plural "appendages" in the clue.

In baseball, "R.B.I." stands for "Runs Batted In," a key statistic and highlight in Major League Baseball (M.L.B.) games. Players earn RBIs by driving in runs, which often represents game-changing moments—hence the clue’s reference to “highlights.”

The answer "ILL SUE" directly translates to a litigious threat, as it is a declarative phrase meaning "I will sue." It conveys a legal warning, fitting the context of the clue perfectly. This wordplay combines a straightforward legal threat into a compact expression.

The answer "TINA" refers to Tina Belcher, a main character and the eldest daughter on the animated TV show Bob's Burgers. Tina is well-known for her socially awkward, quirky personality and her role as part of the Belcher family, which aligns perfectly with the clue.

The clue "Group in charge" refers to a governing body or system in power. "Regime" aligns perfectly, as it denotes a government or authoritative system that exercises control or leadership, effectively being the "group in charge" of a country or organization.

The clue "Puffer or blazer" refers to types of outerwear. A "puffer" is a puffer coat or jacket, known for its quilted, insulated design. A "blazer" is a more formal jacket or coat. Both items fit under the general category of a "COAT," making it the correct answer.

The clue "Still looming, say" suggests something that is yet to occur or is pending. "Still" hints at continuation, and "looming" implies an impending occurrence. TO COME perfectly fits, as it describes something that remains ahead or is yet to happen, aligning with the clue's phrasing.

The shape "OVAL" becomes "OLAV" when the second (V) and fourth (L) letters are switched. "Olav" is a common Scandinavian name. This wordplay clue uses the transformation to cleverly connect the shape to a proper name.

The clue "Wet bar?" uses wordplay. A "shoal" is a shallow sandbar or area of a body of water, often near the surface, which matches the playful interpretation of a "wet bar" as a bar-like formation in water.

The clue "Smooth with a whetstone" directly describes the action of sharpening or refining a blade or edge, which is achieved by using a whetstone. The word "HONE" is the exact term for this process, making it the perfect solution.

The clue "Like some bobsleighs" refers to a type of bobsleigh designed for two people. "Two-man" describes a bobsleigh team consisting of two athletes: a driver and a brakeman. The answer TWOMAN directly corresponds to this common format in bobsleigh racing.

The clue "Hawk" refers to one meaning of the word: to peddle or promote goods aggressively or publicly, which is synonymous with "SELL." This plays on the verb form of "hawk" rather than the bird, making SELL the fitting solution.