Way back? - NYT The Crossword Clue

The clue "Final act of a play?" ends with a question mark, signaling wordplay. The answer, BOW, refers to the gesture cast members traditionally perform at the end of a play's final act to acknowledge the audience's applause—both a literal and figurative "final act."

The answer "THEE" refers to the layout of the shaded squares in the puzzle spelling out "THE ENTERPRISE," the iconic starship from Star Trek. "THEE" is isolated from "THE ENTERPRISE," highlighting the connection to the sci-fi setting in the clue.

The word "Skyrocket" as a clue suggests a rapid ascent or increase, which aligns with the definition of "RISE." Both imply upward movement or growth. The answer works literally and metaphorically, fitting the succinct connection between the clue and solution.

The clue "Reckon so!" is in quotes, signaling conversational language. "Reckon" is a colloquial way of saying "think" or "suppose," and "so" expresses agreement. "YUP" is an informal way to say "yes," fitting the casual tone and meaning of the clue.

The phrase "working without a net" refers to performing a task without a safety backup or margin for error, like a trapeze artist without a safety net. The blank is metaphorically filled by "a net," making "ANET" the correct answer.

The answer "AEONS" refers to extremely long, indefinite periods of time, often used poetically or figuratively. The clue "Seemingly forever" suggests something that feels endless, making AEONS an ideal fit as it describes vast stretches of time that can feel like eternity.

The clue "Some spa jobs, in brief" hints at a short term for a type of service offered at spas. "PEDIS" is short for pedicures, which are common spa treatments for feet. The "in brief" part signals the use of an abbreviation, making PEDIS the fitting solution.

The clue "Manner of speaking" refers to the way something is said, including the attitude, emotion, or style conveyed by speech. "TONE" perfectly fits, as it describes the inflection or mood in speaking that reflects someone's manner or intent, aligning directly with the clue.

The clue "Like used BBQ pits" suggests the state of a BBQ pit after use. When a BBQ pit has been used, it typically contains ash from burned charcoal or wood. The word "ashy" describes something covered in or resembling ash, making it the perfect fit.

MISTERSCOTT refers to Montgomery “Scotty” Scott, the iconic engineer from Star Trek, best known for exclaiming, “I cannot change the laws of physics, Captain!” In this puzzle, the shaded squares spell out THE ENTERPRISE, the ship Scotty served on. This makes MISTERSCOTT a perfect thematic entry, directly tying the character to the ship visually represented in the grid.

The behavior described—being late or cutting in line—is socially inappropriate, often considered discourteous or impolite. "RUDE" is a term that captures such disrespectful actions, making it the correct solution for this clue.

The clue uses wordplay. "Something clicked" references the distinct clicking sound a stapler makes when used. "To add an attachment" refers to the stapler's function: securing papers together by attaching them with staples. Combined, this makes "STAPLER" the fitting answer.

The phrase "Take up space" metaphorically refers to being present or having a presence in the world. To "exist" means to be present or to occupy a position in reality, making it a fitting solution to this straightforward clue.

The answer "HEROCOP" fits because both "Lethal Weapon" and "Die Hard" feature protagonists who are law enforcement officers (cops) depicted as action-packed heroes. These characters demonstrate bravery, combat skills, and a drive to save lives in dangerous situations, embodying the term "hero cop."

The word "Swear" can mean to make a solemn declaration or affirm strongly. "AVOW" aligns with this definition, as it means to assert or declare openly and earnestly, often in a serious or solemn manner. Thus, "AVOW" fits perfectly as the solution.

The clue "Digital investment choices, informally" refers to cryptocurrencies, which are digital assets used for investment and transactions. Informally, cryptocurrencies are often called "cryptos." The answer "CRYPTOS" fits as a concise and colloquial way of describing these digital investments.

The clue "Not much, as of wasabi" plays on the intense spiciness of wasabi. "A dab" is a small amount, which is enough for such a strong condiment. Thus, the answer "ADAB" phonetically represents "a dab," meaning a small amount. The wordplay explains the solution.

The phrase "Narrowly get (by)" suggests barely managing or surviving with difficulty. "EKE" fits as it means to scrape by or manage to make something last despite scarcity, often expressed as "eke out." It captures the struggle to barely achieve or sustain.

The clue "Now that we're all here, please proceed" uses phrasing resembling spoken words, which is hinted by the quotation marks. "OKGO" is a succinct way to communicate agreement ("OK") and the instruction to proceed ("GO"), fitting the given context perfectly.

The clue "Lab reports?" is a pun. "Lab" cleverly refers to a Labrador Retriever, a breed of dog. The "reports" in the clue playfully hint at the sounds or "reports" the dog might make. Hence, the answer "ARFS" represents the barking sounds a Labrador (or any dog) might make.

The clue "Overzealous sort" hints at someone excessively enthusiastic or fanatical. "NUT" is a slang term used to describe such a person, as in a sports nut or a movie nut, who exhibits an intense level of passion or obsession.

The answer "MET" fits "Got acquainted" because "met" is the past tense of "meet," which means to encounter or become familiar with someone for the first time—essentially getting acquainted. This straightforward clue directly links the definition to the answer.

The answer is REALID because it refers to the "Real ID," a federally standardized identification card issued by the DMV. Airport security uses it for authentication to enhance security measures. The clue emphasizes its function and issuance, aligning perfectly with this government-enforced ID requirement for domestic flights.

The solution "SAVEUP" fits "Build a stockpile" because to build a stockpile, you accumulate or gather items over time. "Save up" directly describes the act of setting aside resources, money, or supplies gradually, aligning perfectly with the clue's meaning.

The clue "Didn't go fast?" with a question mark indicates wordplay. Here, "Didn't go fast" cleverly refers to eating slowly, as in taking time to savor a meal. The answer "ATE" fits because it describes the act of eating, aligning with the pun in the clue.

The answer "OOO" stands for "Out of Office," a common abbreviation used in professional settings to indicate that an employee is currently away and unavailable for work. The clue's phrasing reflects this status directly, tying to the abbreviation's meaning.

The phrase "Take down a notch" means to lower someone's status, rank, or position. "DEMOTE" perfectly matches this definition, as it specifically refers to reducing someone to a lower rank or position, often in a professional or hierarchical context. Hence, DEMOTE is the correct answer.

The answer is TROLLS because "purveyors of provocative posts" refers to individuals who deliberately post inflammatory or controversial content online to provoke reactions or disrupt discussions. This behavior is commonly associated with internet trolls, making TROLLS the fitting solution to this clue.

The clue "8.5" x 11": Abbr." refers to the standard size of a sheet of paper, which is commonly associated with a "letter" size. The abbreviation for "letter" is LTR, making it the correct answer.

The answer is JUMP because the song "Jump" by Kris Kross was their #1 hit, famously including the lyric "How high? Real high, 'cause I'm just so fly." The clue references this specific line, making JUMP the clear solution tied to the song's iconic status.

The answer is PERON because Juan Domingo Perón was the president of Argentina, famously ousted in a military coup in 1955. The clue’s use of "El presidente" points to a Spanish-speaking leader, and "coup" aligns with Perón’s removal from power that year.

The clue "Danger" and the answer "PERIL" are synonyms, both signifying exposure to harm or risk. This straightforward clue directly correlates with the definition of the answer, making "PERIL" an exact and fitting solution for "Danger."

The clue "Cry from a victor" implies a triumphant exclamation often heard after winning. "IWON" is a direct and simple phrase one might shout to declare victory, fitting both the sentiment and the structure of the clue. It matches the tone and brevity of a celebratory cry.

The clue uses wordplay with "Type" referring to font styles. ITALICS is a font type that physically "leans to the right," making it a clever pun-based answer to the phrase "right-leaning."

The phrase "ON KEY" refers to singing or playing music in the correct pitch, which is considered a hallmark of quality vocals. The clue uses "quality" to signal precision, and "vocals" points to singing, making "ONKEY" the fitting solution.

The clue "Looks inside?" with a question mark signals wordplay. A CT scan (Computed Tomography scan) is a medical imaging process that "looks inside" the body to diagnose issues. Here, the pun refers to both literal internal examination and the metaphorical concept of "looking inside."

The clue "Drug-busting unit" refers to the metric unit "KILO," short for kilogram, which is often used to measure and reference large drug quantities in law enforcement contexts. Hence, KILO works as the solution, playing on the dual meaning of "unit" as both a measurement and a task force size.

KYOTO is correct because the Fushimi Inari shrine, renowned for its thousands of vibrant red torii gates forming iconic pathways, is located in this historic city in Japan. KYOTO is famous for its rich cultural and religious heritage, making it a fitting answer for the clue.

In Disney's classic cartoons, Huey, Dewey, and Louie Duck are Donald Duck’s mischievous triplet nephews. The clue specifies "brother" of Louie and Dewey Duck, making HUEY the correct answer as he completes the trio of these iconic characters.

The clue "Something hit to get fit" uses wordplay with "hit" and "fit." The phrase "hit the gym" is a common expression meaning to go to the gym to exercise and improve physical fitness. Thus, the answer "THEGYM" fits perfectly.

The clue "Hands-on professional?" uses a pun to hint at someone whose work involves physical touch. A MASSEUR (a male massage therapist) is a professional who uses their hands to provide massages. The question mark signals the playful wordplay in describing their hands-on expertise.

Wally the Green Monster is the official mascot of the Boston Red Sox, a Major League Baseball team. The name references Fenway Park’s famous "Green Monster" wall in left field, a signature feature of the team’s home stadium. Hence, the answer is REDSOX.

The clue "Seeing romantically" suggests being in a romantic relationship or dating someone. The word "WITH" fits this context as it is commonly used to describe being romantically involved with another person (e.g., "She’s seeing someone WITH love"). This implies companionship romantically.

In Texas Hold 'em poker, a "humble" hand refers to a simple or low-value one. A PAIR is a basic hand consisting of two cards of the same rank, making it a modest but common "holding." Hence, PAIR fits both the clue's humble and poker-related context.

The answer is HULU because "The Bear" is a popular television series that streams exclusively on the platform Hulu. The clue uses “streamer” to refer to a streaming service, and Hulu is where viewers can watch this critically acclaimed show.

The clue "Cold War weapon inits." refers to the initials of a weapon used during the Cold War. ICBM stands for Intercontinental Ballistic Missile, a long-range missile capable of carrying nuclear warheads, which was a critical strategic weapon during that era. The initials ICBM match the clue perfectly.

The clue "Beethoven's No. 8?" contains wordplay. Beethoven was German, so the number 8 in German is "acht." The question mark hints at a playful twist, linking Beethoven (a German composer) to the German word for 8. Thus, the answer is ACHT.

The answer "OMNIS" refers to Omni Hotels & Resorts, a well-known luxury hotel chain. The clue "Line of luxury hotels" points to "line" as a chain or brand, making OMNIS, a prominent luxury hotel brand, the correct solution.

The clue "Takes to school, in a way" hints at a method of transport commonly used to bring students to school. "In a way" suggests a specific example, and "buses" are widely recognized as a primary means of transporting students to schools. Thus, the answer is BUSES.

The answer "NOVA" fits because a nova is a powerful, sudden explosion of energy from a star, often described as a "cosmic explosion." It perfectly matches the clue, as novas occur in space and result in a sudden increase in brightness, aligning with the cosmic theme.

The clue "It goes on the run" uses a play on words. "Run" refers to a ski run, the slope used in skiing. A ski is an object that literally moves or "goes" on a ski run, making SKI the correct answer.

In this clue, "Be a wingman, e.g." refers to supporting or helping someone, just as a wingman would do in social or tactical contexts. An "assist" is a direct form of help or support, aligning perfectly with the role of a wingman.

The answer "ERSATZ" is fitting for the clue "False" because "ersatz" refers to something that is a substitute or imitation, often of lower quality and not genuine. It conveys the idea of being fake or not authentic, aligning with the concept of "false."

The shaded squares in this puzzle likely represent U.S. ships, as "USS" is the standard prefix for United States Ships. The clue asks for initials, and "USS" fits as it directly relates to the theme indicated by the highlighted areas. This leverages naval references for clever wordplay.

The answer "STRUT" fits because supermodels are known for their confident, stylish walk on the runway, often described as a strut. The clue implies an action associated with high fashion, and "strut" captures that poised, bold movement perfectly.

In the context of gold, KARAT is a unit that measures its purity. Pure gold is 24 KARAT, meaning it's 100% gold. Lower KARAT values indicate the presence of other metals. This direct association with purity makes KARAT the correct answer for "Unit of purity."

The word "DEIGN" means to condescend or stoop to do something considered beneath oneself, which matches the clue "Lower oneself." It implies reluctantly agreeing to do something with a sense of superiority, perfectly fitting the definition provided in the clue.

The clue includes a pun. "Knights" refers to medieval knights, whose assistants or apprentices were squires. Squires "study" knights closely, learning their movements and duties to serve them better, making SQUIRES the fitting answer.

"Canyon's edge" refers to the outer boundary or border of a canyon. The "RIM" specifically describes the upper edge or margin of the canyon, often overlooking the drop below. This makes "RIM" a precise fit for the clue describing a canyon's edge.

The phrase "On the warpath" is a common idiom meaning someone is angry or raging, akin to gearing up for confrontation. The clue's hint "(raging)" points to this figurative use, making WARPATH the fitting answer to complete "On the ___.

The clue "Gone skinny-dipping, e.g." suggests an activity involving water. The past participle "Gone" points to a completed action. "Skinny-dipping" involves swimming, and the correct past participle of "swim" is "SWUM," making it the fitting solution here.

The clue "Significant stretch" refers to a notable period of time. An ERA is commonly defined as a long and distinct period in history or someone's life, making it a "significant stretch" of time. This aligns perfectly with the clue's phrasing.

The clue "Mr. Turkey" uses wordplay, referring to a male turkey, which is commonly called a TOM. In nature, male turkeys are specifically named "toms," making this a clever pun-based clue. The capitalization of "Mr." reinforces that the answer relates to a male turkey.

The answer "ACS" refers to air conditioning systems (A/Cs), which often involve window installations. The abbreviation "ACs" is shortened further to "ACS" here, fitting the informal tone indicated in the clue. "Some" suggests not all windows but specific instances like A/C units.

The answer "LOOM" fits because a loom is a device used in weaving to interlace threads. "Warp" refers to the lengthwise threads held under tension on the loom, driven by the device, while "weft" threads are woven through them. This clue uses wordplay around textile weaving terminology.

Haiti is a major exporter of mangoes due to its favorable tropical climate, with mangoes being one of its primary agricultural products. The country produces several varieties, particularly the sought-after "Madame Francis" mango, contributing to its significant mango exports, especially to markets like the U.S.

The clue "One giving the highlights?" uses wordplay with "highlights." It refers to hair highlights, which are often applied by a professional. A "DYER" is someone who applies color to hair, making them the one "giving the highlights." The pun in the question mark indicates this playful interpretation.

The clue "By dawn's early light?" uses wordplay with "dawn," the time the sun rises. The sun rises in the EAST, making it the direction associated with early morning light. The question mark signals this playful interpretation.

The clue "Intending to, casually" indicates a relaxed, informal way of expressing intent. "Gonna" is a contraction of "going to," often used in casual speech to signify intent or future action, making it the perfect match for the clue's tone and meaning.

The verb "INCUR" means to bring something upon oneself, typically something unpleasant or undesirable, like debt, wrath, or blame. It aligns directly with the clue "Bring upon oneself," as it describes the action of becoming subject to or liable for something due to one's actions or choices.

The clue uses a playful wordplay with "Wordlessly indicate" and "give me a hand." In poker, to "ante" is to place a bet that contributes to the collective pot, signaling a desire to participate in the game or "hand." Thus, "ANTE" fits as a subtle, wordless gesture.

The answer is UNTO because it completes the title of Emily Dickinson's poem “Unto a Broken Heart.” In this context, "___ a broken heart" fits as UNTO, reflecting the archaic, poetic phrasing typical of Dickinson's 19th-century style.

The clue refers to Iron Man, a superhero who famously wears a high-tech suit for protection and combat. The term "armor" fits as it describes a protective suit, which aligns with the example, Iron Man's iconic suit. Additionally, "e.g." signals the answer is a general category.

"Fire away!" is a conversational phrase encouraging someone to ask a question. The solution, ASKME, is a direct response, suggesting the speaker is inviting queries. The exclamation mark in the clue hints at playful phrasing, aligning perfectly with the informal tone of ASKME.

The clue "False" is looking for a synonym. "Mock" fits because it can mean to imitate falsely or insincerely, such as mocking someone by pretending to be them in a fake way. Additionally, "mock" implies something not genuine or deceptive, aligning with "false."

The clue "Docking station" refers to a place where boats or ships are secured or docked. A "PIER" is a structure that extends into the water and serves as a mooring point, making it a fitting answer based on its definition.

The clue "Some draft picks?" signals wordplay. "Draft" cleverly refers to draft beer, a drink served from a keg. "Picks" implies choices or selections. Together, "Some draft picks?" humorously points to BEERS, as they are choices of draft beverages.