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NY Times Crossword Logo

Compact wooden figures ... and a hint to 5-, 11-, 22- and 25-Down - NYT The Crossword Clue

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Across

  • "Top tier" cleverly refers to the uppermost part of a building, which is the attic. The wordplay lies in interpreting "tier" as a physical level and "top" pointing to the highest one, making attic the perfect fit.

  • SMOG is the answer because it represents a key environmental issue in The Lorax. The story highlights pollution caused by industrial activity, and smog—a harmful air pollutant—is a byproduct of such activities. This aligns with the book's central theme of environmental degradation and the need for preservation.

  • The answer is EDAM because it refers to a type of cheese originating from Edam, Netherlands. EDAM is known for its mild flavor and smooth texture, fitting the "Mild cheese" clue perfectly. This classic red-waxed cheese is a staple in many crossword puzzles due to its brevity and distinctiveness.

  • The answer is BAIDU because it is a leading search engine company headquartered in China. Known as the "Google of China," Baidu is one of the largest internet and AI companies, fitting the description of a "search engine giant based in China."

  • The answer is HAKE because it is a type of white fish with flaky, delicate flesh, commonly used in cooking. This matches the descriptor "Flaky white fish" in the clue, making HAKE the correct solution.

  • The clue "Drag" with no additional context plays on wordplay. A "toke" refers to inhaling a puff from a cigarette or joint, which involves "dragging" the smoke in. The answer uses the double meaning of "drag," tying it to smoking.

  • The answer is EXCEL because it is a Microsoft product, and its name phonetically sounds like "X" and "L," two letters of the alphabet when spoken aloud ("EX-EL"). The phrase in the clue highlights this wordplay, making it the apt solution.

  • The clue "Ones who are out of cite, in brief?" involves wordplay—"cite" here refers to citations, as in referencing sources. "Et al." (short for "et alia") is used in citations to mean "and others," referencing authors not explicitly mentioned. They're "out of cite" because they aren't fully listed.

  • The answer "OMIT" matches the clue "Skip over" because both mean to leave something out or not include it. "OMIT" is a direct synonym for skipping over content, aligning perfectly with the straightforward phrasing of the clue.

  • The clue "Hang outdoors, say" suggests an action often done with wet clothes or items. The phrase "say" indicates a possible example or method. AIRDRY describes a common way to dry items by hanging them outdoors, letting air circulate to remove moisture naturally. Perfect fit!

  • The clue "Expensive topper" hints at something luxurious (expensive) that goes on top (topper). A tiara is a jeweled, ornamental crown often associated with royalty or formal events, fitting both the luxury and topper aspects of the clue.

  • The answer "APP" is short for "application," which is often evaluated by a college admissions panel. The clue uses the word "informally" to hint that the answer is the abbreviated, casual term for it.

  • The clue "Intrusive" suggests someone overly interested in others' business. The word "nosy" directly describes a person who meddles or pries into matters that don't concern them, making it a perfect fit for this definition. It aligns with the idea of being overly curious or intrusive.

  • The term "filial" relates to a son or daughter and their duties or feelings toward a parent. "Like respect for a parent" describes the kind of devotion, love, or duty expected of a child toward their parents, making "FILIAL" the fitting answer.

  • The clue "It has its ups and downs" uses wordplay. A seesaw is a playground equipment that moves up and down as two people alternate weight, perfectly matching the description. The "ups and downs" metaphorically represents the seesaw's motion, making it the fitting answer.

  • "There Will Be Blood" is a 2007 film centered on the oil industry, following Daniel Plainview, an ambitious oilman. The key characters in the movie revolve around oil drilling and wealth from oil. Thus, "OILMEN" aptly describes the primary figures in the film's plot.

  • The word "Navigate" relates to guiding or directing, much like steering a vehicle or ship. "STEER" perfectly fits, as it describes the act of controlling direction, aligning directly with the clue's straightforward meaning.

  • In a political debate, a "talking point" refers to a specific topic or subject of discussion that candidates address or debate over. The term "ISSUE" perfectly fits as it represents a matter of concern or debate that is central to political discourse.

  • The answer "NIT" refers to a trivial or minor complaint, criticism, or detail—essentially a "small sticking point." The term originates from the tiny eggs of lice, emphasizing its association with something minuscule but potentially irritating, perfectly matching the clue's phrasing!

  • The answer "ARRAY" fits because solar panels are typically arranged in a grid or organized pattern, which is often called an "array." The term also aligns with the clue's general structure, as "array" signifies an organized layout of multiple elements, matching the arrangement of solar panels.

  • The answer is SHE because it refers to the song "She," performed by Elvis Costello for the movie Notting Hill (1999). This romantic ballad is prominently featured in the film's soundtrack, making it a fitting solution to the clue.

  • The answer is MOANA because she is the protagonist of Disney's 2016 animated film "Moana." In the movie, she embarks on a journey to find the demigod Maui to restore the heart of Te Fiti and save her island. This perfectly aligns with the clue's description.

  • The answer "MIR" refers to the Russian space station that operated from 1986 to 2001. It was an important precursor to the International Space Station (ISS), serving as a model for modular assembly and international collaboration in space exploration. "MIR" means "peace" or "world" in Russian.

  • The clue "Similar" directly defines the word ALIKE. Both terms refer to things being the same or resembling each other in appearance, nature, or qualities. This is a straightforward synonym-based clue with no wordplay or additional hints involved.

  • The answer "ARMOR" fits the clue "Something carried into battle" because armor is protective equipment worn or carried by soldiers to shield themselves in combat. It’s historically essential for battles, making it a fitting and literal solution to the clue.

  • The answer "ERRATA" refers to a list of errors or corrections typically included at the end of a textbook. Publishers often use this section to address mistakes in the text, making it a common feature found in such books.

  • The answer "ACCENT" fits the clue "Manner of speaking" because an accent refers to the distinctive pronunciation or speech pattern associated with a particular region, culture, or individual. It specifically reflects a way of speaking, aligning perfectly with the definition of the clue.

  • The clue "Jet wing fasteners" directly refers to RIVETS, which are mechanical fasteners used to securely join materials, such as metal panels in jet wings. They are essential in aircraft assembly, providing strength and durability while withstanding high stress during flight. This makes RIVETS the perfect answer.

  • The clue "Sprint" refers to a quick burst of movement or action, which directly aligns with the word "DASH." Both suggest rapid motion or hurry. Additionally, "dash" can metaphorically represent doing something swiftly, making it an apt synonym for "sprint."

  • The word "SET" forms common phrases with "foot" (e.g., "set foot," meaning to step somewhere), "fire" (e.g., "set fire," meaning to ignite), and "free" (e.g., "set free," meaning to release). Therefore, it logically fits as the answer to the clue.

  • The clue "Grand tales" refers to stories of great scale, importance, or heroism, often long and elaborate. The word "EPICS" fits as it denotes lengthy narrative poems or tales, such as "The Iliad" or "The Odyssey," which are classic examples of grand storytelling.

  • The Badlands are known for their rich deposits of prehistoric remains. The word "discovery" hints at finding something ancient, and "maybe" adds ambiguity, fitting a potential find like a FOSSIL. Fossils are common discoveries in regions like the Badlands, famous for their geological and paleontological history.

  • The clue "Surface ___" refers to a measurable aspect of a surface. "Area" is the correct answer as it's the term used to describe the size of a surface in two-dimensional space (e.g., length × width). The blank is filled with "area" to complete the logical phrase.

  • The clue "Afflicts" directly means to cause pain, trouble, or hardship, which aligns with "AILS." "Ails" is a verb signifying suffering or being in distress, making it a fitting match for the definition provided without any additional wordplay.

  • The answer "NITRO" is short for nitroglycerin, a highly explosive substance. The clue's use of "familiarly" signals a casual or shortened term, making "NITRO" the fitting abbreviation for this explosive material in everyday or informal reference.

  • The answer LAWN fits as many formal and ceremonial events at the White House, such as press conferences, celebrations, and Easter Egg Rolls, are held outdoors on the White House lawn (e.g., South Lawn or Rose Garden). It aligns with the clue's context of a specific White House setting.

  • The clue "Like some chatter" refers to chatter that is purposeless or trivial, which is often described as "idle chatter." The term "idle" here signifies something lacking meaningful activity, aligning perfectly with the idea of casual, insignificant conversation.

  • The answer is ELMER because the quote in the clue is famously spoken by Elmer Fudd, a classic Looney Tunes cartoon character. Known for hunting "wabbits" (especially Bugs Bunny), Elmer often says "Shhh. Be vewy vewy quiet" while sneaking around. The clue mimics his distinctive speech style.

  • The answer is MYST because it refers to the groundbreaking computer game released in 1993. Known for its innovative gameplay, MYST was pioneering in its use of intricate, immersive puzzles and a captivating narrative, making it a landmark title in the puzzle-adventure gaming genre.

  • The clue "Yearbook superlative" refers to a title often given in high school yearbooks, such as "Most Likely to Succeed" or "Most Athletic." These superlatives commonly start with "Most," making it the fitting and logical answer.

  • The clue "Smart" involves wordplay, as it can mean both intelligence and pain. The answer "STING" refers to the sharp pain one feels (as in "a stinging sensation"). This play on the dual meaning of "Smart" provides the clever connection to the solution.

Down

  • The clue "Prez on a penny" refers to Abraham Lincoln, whose face is famously featured on the U.S. one-cent coin (penny). "Prez" is a shorthand for "President," and Abraham Lincoln (often called "Abe") was the 16th U.S. President. Hence, the answer is ABE.

  • The clue "Burden" connects to TAX as both can mean a weight or obligation. A tax imposes a financial burden on individuals or entities, making it a fitting answer through this shared sense of responsibility or strain.

  • The answer "TIC" fits the clue "Nervous twitch" because a "tic" is an involuntary, repetitive movement or twitch, often caused by stress or anxiety. This directly relates to the clue's description of a nervous or involuntary physical reaction.

  • The clue "That's a thought" directly refers to the definition of an "IDEA," which is essentially a thought, concept, or mental notion. The conversational phrasing ties naturally to "IDEA," making it a perfect fit for the solution.

  • The innermost clue “not any” gives NARY, then “false witness” becomes LIAR, “stops filming” is CUTS, producing CU(LI(NARY)AR)TS, or CULINARY ARTS, the final phrase.

  • The answer "SHEDS" fits because pets, such as dogs or cats, often lose hair or fur, which scatters around and makes a literal mess. The clue's phrasing "in a way" signals this is one specific interpretation of "makes a mess" relating to pets.

  • The revealer MATRYOSHKADOLLS refers to the iconic Russian nesting dolls, and it hints at how the themed entries are constructed: each answer contains smaller answers layered within it, just like one doll inside another. To solve the themers, solvers had to start from the innermost clue and work outward, carefully “nesting” one word inside the next until the full answer was revealed.

  • The clue "Agree to" implies an action or phrase that signifies consent or approval. "OKAY" is a conversational term that means to agree or accept something, fitting perfectly as the solution. The casual tone of "OKAY" aligns with the straightforward nature of the clue.

  • The answer "GEL" fits because "come together" metaphorically describes the process of solidifying or uniting, just as a gel forms by coming together at a molecular level. It also conveys the idea of plans, ideas, or teams solidifying and working cohesively.

  • The clue "Alpha Centauri A, par exemple" contains the French phrase "par exemple," signaling the answer is in French. Alpha Centauri A is a star, and the French word for "star" is étoile. Thus, ETOILE is the correct answer.

  • “Inn” is the “roadside stopover”; “ma’am” is the lady’s title, forming MA(INN)AM. That nests into “mates” for bucks (DOES) creating DO(MA(INN)AM)ES, or DOMAIN NAMES.

  • Akira Kurosawa (1910–1998) was a legendary Japanese film director renowned for works like Seven Samurai and Rashomon. The clue refers directly to his first name, "Akira," making it the straightforward answer. This is a common trivia-based clue frequently seen in crosswords.

  • The clue "Headbanger's genre" refers to the music genre associated with headbanging, a vigorous dance move often performed during heavy, intense music. The genre most linked to this practice is "METAL" (short for heavy metal), known for its loud, fast-paced, and aggressive sound.

  • The answer "ROW" fits because in seat assignments, particularly on planes, theaters, or arenas, seats are organized in rows. Part of assigning a seat involves specifying the row number, e.g., Row 5, to locate your seat. Thus, "ROW" directly refers to this element of seating organization.

  • “Physicist Ernst” gives MACH; the German possessive “mein” wraps that to form ME(MACH)IN; finally, “baseball rarities” = TIES, which wrap around it to create TIME MACHINES.

  • ASSAM is a northeastern region in India renowned for its high-quality tea production, especially Assam tea. It’s also famous for its production of Assam silk, particularly Muga silk, unique to the area. The clue directly references these well-known attributes, making ASSAM the fitting answer.

  • The answer "PETRI" refers to a Petri dish, a shallow, circular dish commonly used in laboratories to culture microorganisms. The blank in "___ dish" is completed with "PETRI" because it is a type of dish specifically associated with science and biology.

  • “Minister, informally” = REV; “Buffalo’s waters” = ERIE; “Church seats” = PEWS. Stack them outward: REV in ERIE = ER(REV)IE, inside PEWS = PE(ER(REV)IE)WS, or PEER REVIEWS.

  • The clue "Seasonal malady" refers to an illness that occurs in specific seasons. The flu (short for influenza) is a common viral infection that spikes during the colder months, especially fall and winter, making "FLU" a fitting answer to the clue.

  • The clue "Pirates' sphere" leads to the answer SEA because pirates traditionally operate in or around the open seas, which serve as their primary domain or "sphere" of activity. The term directly links pirates to their maritime environment, making SEA the fitting solution.

  • The clue "Gotcha" in quotes signals a conversational or spoken phrase. "I SEE" is a common verbal expression people use when they understand or acknowledge something, conveying a sense of realization or "getting it." Hence, "I SEE" fits perfectly as the answer.

  • The clue "You sure?" in quotes replicates casual, spoken language. The answer "ISIT" mirrors this conversational tone, representing a questioning or doubtful response someone might give when confirming something. The phrase "Is it?" aligns perfectly with the clue's informal phrasing and questioning nature.

  • The phrase "in-one" often follows numbers and hyphens, as seen in expressions like "two-in-one" or "all-in-one," which describe multi-functional items or combined features. The clue emphasizes this common usage pattern, making "INONE" the fitting answer.

  • The answer is TARTT because Jamie Tartt is a key character in the popular television series Ted Lasso. He is a talented but initially self-centered soccer player whose development is a major storyline in the show. The clue specifies "Ted Lasso" to lead you to this character.

  • The answer "ORC" refers to a monstrous creature from J.R.R. Tolkien's fantasy works, such as The Lord of the Rings. Orcs are malevolent, goblin-like beings serving dark forces. Since the clue specifies "Tolkien creature," ORC fits perfectly as it directly ties to his fictional universe.

  • The clue plays on wordplay: "Las Vegan" sounds like "Las Vegas," Nevada's largest city. By splitting "Las" from "Vegan," the clue cleverly refers to someone from Las Vegas. Thus, the answer "LAS" completes "___ Vegan," indicating a resident of Las Vegas.

  • The clue "Withdraw one's testimony" directly points to the word RECANT, which means to formally withdraw or take back a statement or belief previously made. In legal or formal contexts, it specifically refers to reversing one's testimony or public declaration, making it the perfect fit for the clue.

  • The answer "ASS" fits the clue "Pack animal" because an ass, also known as a donkey, is commonly used as a work animal to carry loads or "packs." It directly refers to an animal known for its strength and endurance in transporting goods or supplies.

  • The word "REALM" is synonymous with "Kingdom," as both refer to a territory, domain, or area ruled by a monarch or leader. The two terms are interchangeable in meaning, making REALM the perfect fit for the clue.

  • The clue "Here's hoping …" is a spoken phrase expressing a wish or hope, often tied to making a prayer or wishing for something sincerely. "I PRAY" aligns perfectly with this sentiment, reflecting the act of hoping or wishing through prayer. The quotation marks signal it’s a spoken phrase.

  • The clue "Plus" suggests something positive or advantageous. ASSET fits as it represents a valuable or positive attribute, in line with the notion of a "plus" as a benefit or bonus. This clue relies on a figurative interpretation rather than a direct definition.

  • FIDO is a classic and widely recognized pet name, typically for a dog. Its origin lies in the Latin word "fidus," meaning "faithful," reflecting the loyalty associated with dogs. It has become a staple stereotypical name for dogs in popular culture and fits the "Classic pet name" clue perfectly.

  • The clue "Cheerful air" hints at something light and uplifting. "LILT" refers to a rhythmic, buoyant, and cheerful tone or melody in music or voice, perfectly aligning with the idea of a cheerful, melodic "air" often used to describe a tune or mood.

  • The clue "Target" directly relates to "AIM" because to target something is to focus on or direct toward it, which aligns with the meaning of the word "aim" — to direct intention or effort toward a specific goal or object.

  • The clue "You're oversharing" is in quotes, indicating spoken words or a phrase. TMI stands for "Too Much Information," a common expression used when someone shares overly personal or excessive details. It perfectly matches the context of oversharing, making it the correct answer.

  • The answer "REN" refers to Ren Höek, the cartoon chihuahua from the animated series The Ren & Stimpy Show. Ren is a well-known canine character, making him the correct solution to the clue "Cartoon canine."

  • The clue "Alternative to .com" refers to different domain name endings used on websites. While ".com" is common for commercial sites, ".org" is often used for nonprofit or organization websites. Here, ORG fits as an alternative domain suffix to ".com," making it the correct answer.

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Solving today’s NYT The Crossword Puzzle and stuck on the 15-letter answer to the Compact wooden figures ... and a hint to 5-, 11-, 22- and 25-Down 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!

Compact wooden figures ... and a hint to 5-, 11-, 22- and 25-Down Answer Explained

The answer is MATRYOSHKADOLLS.

The revealer MATRYOSHKADOLLS is a perfect metaphor for today’s intricate theme. Just like the traditional Russian nesting dolls, each one fitting snugly inside the next, the four themed clues are built from layered wordplay, with each part of the clue containing another. Each of the theme entries follows a nested structure: take the innermost word, insert it into a middle word, and place that inside the outermost word. For example, 25-Down reads (Church (Buffalo’s (minister, informally) waters) seats). The innermost answer is REV, which goes into ERIE (Buffalo’s waters), forming ER(REV)IE. That in turn is inserted into PEWS, yielding PEER REVIEWS. Similarly, 22-Down gives us TIME MACHINES from (Baseball (German (physicist Ernst) possessive) rarities) by nesting MACH inside MEIN, then placing that inside TIES. Each themed entry works this way, elegantly embodying the layered structure of MATRYOSHKADOLLS.

Now that you've cracked the 7D Compact wooden figures ... and a hint to 5-, 11-, 22- and 25-Down 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

Sam Brody’s second New York Times Crossword is a layered delight, literally. Themed around MATRYOSHKA DOLLS, the puzzle nests clues within clues within clues, demanding solvers unravel them like the iconic Russian toys. Each long Down entry is a wordplay triptych, with parentheses helping guide the order in which to mentally “unbox” the answers. The intricate constructions, like TIME MACHINES and PEER REVIEWS, are impressively executed, with clean surface clues that make the reveals feel earned. It’s an ambitious concept, but thanks to the clear logic of the nesting and a puzzle-wide consistency, it doesn’t collapse under its own cleverness. Definitely a standout puzzle, and surprisingly smooth given its architectural complexity.

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.

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