The answer is CALEB because Caleb Bradham was the pharmacist who invented Pepsi in 1893. Originally called "Brad's Drink," it was later renamed Pepsi-Cola. The blank in the clue specifies Bradham's first name, Caleb.
6SkewerSTAB????✨ See Why
The clue "Skewer" suggests stabbing or piercing, which aligns with the verb "stab." To skewer something, such as food, means to pierce it with a pointed object like a skewer. Hence, the answer "STAB" fits perfectly as it captures the action described.
10Cook in hot waterBOIL????✨ See Why
The clue "Cook in hot water" directly describes the cooking method "boil," which involves heating water until it reaches its boiling point and then using it to cook food. BOIL is a succinct and accurate fit for this straightforward clue.
14Frank account?DIARY?????✨ See Why
The clue "Frank account?" uses a pun with "Frank" referring to Anne Frank, known for her famous diary documenting her life during the Holocaust. A "diary" is also a personal account, making it the clever solution to this wordplay clue.
15Father's sisterAUNT????✨ See Why
The clue "Father's sister" directly defines a familial relationship. A "father" is one's dad, and his "sister" is the specific term we use to describe that relationship: an "AUNT." Therefore, the answer "AUNT" fits perfectly as it matches the definition provided in the clue.
16"Casablanca" heroineILSA????✨ See Why
In the classic 1942 film Casablanca, the heroine is Ilsa Lund, portrayed by Ingrid Bergman. The clue directly references this character, making "ILSA" the correct solution.
17Acclaimed 2004 science fiction work by David Mitchell made into a 2012 filmCLOUDATLAS??????????✨ See Why
The answer is CLOUDATLAS because it is the title of David Mitchell's acclaimed 2004 science fiction novel, which was later adapted into a 2012 film directed by the Wachowskis and Tom Tykwer. The novel's intricate narrative structure and themes of interconnectedness align with the clue's description.
19ExcessGLUT????✨ See Why
"GLUT" is the solution for "Excess" because "GLUT" means an overabundance or surplus of something—matching the sense of abundance or over-supply implied by "Excess." Both terms denote having more than what is needed or wanted.
20Floor modelsDEMOS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Floor models" is a pun. "Floor" can refer to the showroom floor where product demonstrations (DEMOS) are given, and "models" refers to showcasing or demonstrating products. Therefore, DEMOS fits as the solution, reflecting the act of demonstrating floor models in a store.
21FloorAMAZE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Floor" is tricky because it's used as a verb, not as a noun. To "floor" someone means to astonish or shock them, which aligns with the meaning of AMAZE. It's a clever play on words where "floor" equates to stunning or amazing someone.
221959 Broadway drama by Lorraine Hansberry, with "A"RAISININTHESUN??????????????✨ See Why
The answer is RAISININTHESUN because Lorraine Hansberry's A Raisin in the Sun was a landmark Broadway drama first performed in 1959. The clue specifies "with 'A'," pointing to the full title of the play, which explores themes of racial and economic struggle in America.
26Dearest palBESTIE??????✨ See Why
The clue "Dearest pal" hints at a term for a close, affectionate friend. "Dearest" implies a strong emotional bond, and "pal" refers to a friend. The casual term BESTIE is widely used to describe someone's closest friend, making it the perfect fit for this clue.
27Sounds at a fireworks showOOHS????✨ See Why
The clue "Sounds at a fireworks show" suggests nonverbal reactions. Spectators often express amazement with audible "OOHS" when seeing impressive fireworks. As the clue indicates sounds (enclosed in quotes), the answer must reflect such exclamatory reactions to the visual spectacle. Hence, "OOHS" fits perfectly.
28Remove from a clothesline, sayUNPEG?????✨ See Why
The clue "Remove from a clothesline, say" refers to taking laundry off a line, which is often secured with pegs. To "unpeg" something means to take off the pegs holding it, fitting the context perfectly as the action needed to remove items from the clothesline.
29Beach blanket?SAND????✨ See Why
The clue "Beach blanket?" uses wordplay indicated by the question mark. It hints at something covering the beach. SAND blankets the entire surface of a beach, metaphorically acting as the "blanket" on the beach, making "SAND" the fitting answer.
31Black Friday offeringSALE????✨ See Why
Black Friday is famously associated with major discounts and deals in retail, making "SALE" a fitting answer. The clue refers to what stores prominently offer on Black Friday to attract shoppers—large-scale sales. The straightforward connection between Black Friday and sales justifies this solution.
35Preceder of Jan.DEC???✨ See Why
The answer "DEC" refers to December, the month that directly precedes January in the Gregorian calendar. This is a straightforward, non-punny clue based on chronological order.
362006 romantic fantasy novel by Stephenie MeyerNEWMOON???????✨ See Why
The 2006 romantic fantasy novel by Stephenie Meyer is "New Moon," the second book in the Twilight saga. It follows the relationship between Bella Swan and Edward Cullen, particularly during a period of separation. "New Moon" is also a celestial phase, aligning with the series' thematic ties to darkness and supernatural elements.
39With 43-Across, playful marine mammalSEA???✨ See Why
The clue spans two entries: "With 43-Across, playful marine mammal." The answer "SEA" paired with the 43-Across answer "OTTER" creates "SEA OTTER," a well-known playful marine mammal. This type of clue relies on combining related entries to form the full answer.
40Playful marine mammalSEAL????✨ See Why
SEAL fits "Playful marine mammal" because seals are known for their playful behavior in the water, often performing acrobatics or interacting with their environment. They are marine mammals commonly found in oceans worldwide, making the answer straightforward and precise.
42Pros who may care for playful marine mammalsVETS????✨ See Why
The clue refers to "Pros" (professionals) who care for animals, including marine mammals like seals and dolphins, which are often described as playful. Veterinarians, or VETS, are the professionals who treat animals, making "VETS" a fitting and succinct answer here. The question mark indicates a slightly playful interpretation.
43See 39-AcrossOTTER?????✨ See Why
The clue “See 39-Across” means the answer at 39-Across provides context. If 39-Across refers to an animal like “Playful aquatic mammal,” the answer is OTTER, a playful water-loving creature often associated with rivers and coasts. Solve 39-Across to confirm this link!
45"Ah, gotcha"ISEE????✨ See Why
The clue "Ah, gotcha" is in quotes, signaling a spoken phrase or expression. "ISEE" mirrors the conversational acknowledgment of understanding or realization, akin to saying "Oh, I understand" or "I get it." It aligns perfectly with the tone and meaning of the clue.
47Workers who sometimes carry flashlightsUSHERS??????✨ See Why
The clue uses a bit of wordplay with "Workers who sometimes carry flashlights." Ushers—such as those in theaters or events—often carry flashlights to help guide people to their seats in dark settings. This matches the hint of occasional use and their role as workers.
48Newbery Medal-winning 1989 novel for children by Lois LowryNUMBERTHESTARS??????????????✨ See Why
The answer is NUMBERTHESTARS because it is the title of the 1989 Newbery Medal-winning novel by Lois Lowry. The book is a historical fiction story about a young girl's experience in Nazi-occupied Denmark during World War II, aligning perfectly with the clue's description.
53Standard option in a popular rideshare appUBERX?????✨ See Why
UBERX is the standard, mid-tier service offered by Uber, a popular rideshare app. It provides a private ride in a typical 4-door car, making it the default and most commonly selected option for riders seeking affordability and convenience.
54WarnALERT?????✨ See Why
The clue "Warn" directly relates to the word ALERT, as to warn someone is to notify them of potential danger or a need for caution, making them vigilant or alert to the situation. ALERT serves as both a warning and a state of awareness.
55Covid-19, in slangRONA????✨ See Why
The answer "RONA" is a slang term derived from the word "corona," referring to the coronavirus, specifically Covid-19. It’s a casual, shortened form commonly used in informal speech or text to reference the pandemic. The clue's informal tone signals the use of slang.
56Message from a pilot ... or what 17-, 22-, 36- and 48-Across each is?SKYWRITING??????????✨ See Why
The answer is SKYWRITING because it refers to messages written in the sky by pilots using aircraft smoke. Additionally, the entries at 17-, 22-, 36-, and 48-Across in the grid are phrases or words that metaphorically represent messages "written" in the sky, aligning with the pun in the clue.
61Type of word banned in North American competitive Scrabble in 2020SLUR????✨ See Why
The answer "SLUR" fits because in 2020, the North American Scrabble Players Association (NASPA) banned racial and offensive slurs from competitive play to promote inclusivity and respect, even though such words were previously allowed under standard Scrabble rules. It reflects the type of word excluded for ethical reasons.
62White House stafferAIDE????✨ See Why
The answer is AIDE because in political contexts, an "aide" is a personal assistant or staff member who supports officials, such as those working for the President in the White House. The term directly refers to someone helping a high-ranking authority, which fits "White House staffer."
63Shower scrubberLOOFA?????✨ See Why
The answer "LOOFA" fits the clue "Shower scrubber" because a loofa (or loofah) is a natural sponge often used in showers for scrubbing and exfoliating skin. It’s a common bath accessory designed specifically for cleaning during showers, making it an appropriate solution for this clue.
64Online crafts shopETSY????✨ See Why
ETSY is the answer because it’s a well-known online platform where individuals sell handmade, vintage, or unique craft items. The clue "Online crafts shop" directly describes ETSY’s main function as a marketplace for creators and craft enthusiasts.
65Equipment in "Top Chef"PANS????✨ See Why
The answer is PANS because "Top Chef" contestants frequently use pans as essential cooking equipment for tasks like sautéing, frying, and baking. The clue references tools central to culinary activity, making "pans" a fitting and straightforward solution for the clue.
66SpiritsSOULS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Spirits" refers to a double meaning: it can signify alcohol or ghostly entities. Here, "spirits" metaphorically means the immaterial essence or character of a being, aligning with "SOULS" as the answer, which represents the non-physical aspect of living beings.
Down
1Org. encouraging flu shotsCDC???✨ See Why
The answer "CDC" refers to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, a U.S. government organization. The CDC is widely known for promoting public health initiatives, including encouraging flu vaccinations to prevent the spread of influenza. "Org." in the clue hints at an abbreviated organizational name, matching "CDC."
2Feel illAIL???✨ See Why
The clue "Feel ill" directly describes the verb "AIL," which means to suffer from poor health or feel unwell. It's a straightforward match between the definition and the synonym, making "AIL" the correct and concise answer.
3Neighbor of a ThaiLAO???✨ See Why
The clue "Neighbor of a Thai" refers to geography. Thailand shares a border with Laos, a Southeast Asian country. The term "Lao" refers to something or someone from Laos, making LAO the correct answer as it describes the Thai's neighboring people or nation.
4ScholarlyERUDITE???????✨ See Why
The answer "ERUDITE" is fitting for the clue "Scholarly" because "erudite" describes someone possessing deep, extensive learning or knowledge, which aligns perfectly with the meaning of "scholarly." Both terms emphasize intellectual depth and education.
5IntentionallyBYDESIGN????????✨ See Why
The phrase "Intentionally" suggests something done with purpose or deliberate planning. "BY DESIGN" is a common expression meaning exactly that—purposefully or intentionally planned. It directly aligns with the clue, making "BY DESIGN" the perfect answer.
6Used, as a chairSATON?????✨ See Why
The clue "Used, as a chair" refers to the action of sitting on a chair. The past tense "Used" aligns with the past tense phrase "SAT ON," which describes the act of sitting on something (e.g., a chair). Thus, SATON is the correct answer.
7Politician GabbardTULSI?????✨ See Why
The answer is TULSI because Tulsi Gabbard is a well-known American politician. She served as a U.S. Representative from Hawaii and gained national attention during her 2020 presidential campaign. The clue directly references her last name, making her first name, Tulsi, the solution.
8Santa ___ windsANA???✨ See Why
The Santa Ana winds are strong, dry winds originating in Southern California. This proper noun references a well-known meteorological phenomenon, making "ANA" the correct completion of "Santa ___ winds." The clue plays on the specificity of the regional name.
9"Dynamite" K-pop bandBTS???✨ See Why
BTS is the solution because it is a globally famous K-pop band known for its hit song "Dynamite." The clue directly refers to their song, which was a record-breaking English-language track that gained worldwide recognition, tying the band's name to the clue.
10Chaotic situationBIGMESS???????✨ See Why
The clue "Chaotic situation" directly describes disorder or confusion. The phrase "BIG MESS" is a common way to characteristically describe such a scenario, fitting both the literal meaning of chaos and the casual tone often used to express it. This makes BIGMESS the perfect solution.
11Some cantina cookwareOLLAS?????✨ See Why
The clue references "cantina," a Spanish term for a bar or small restaurant, indicating the answer is likely in Spanish. "Ollas" means cooking pots in Spanish, fitting as cookware commonly found in cantinas for preparing food. Thus, "OLLAS" is the correct answer.
12Japanese truck manufacturerISUZU?????✨ See Why
The solution ISUZU fits the clue "Japanese truck manufacturer" because Isuzu Motors is a well-known Japanese company specializing in commercial vehicles and diesel engines. Founded in 1916, Isuzu is globally recognized for producing trucks, buses, and utility vehicles, making it the correct and fitting answer to the clue.
13Draw toward darkLATEN?????✨ See Why
The word LATEN means “to grow late” or “to darken as night approaches.” The clue "Draw toward dark" refers to the process of becoming darker, or nighttime setting in, perfectly matching the definition of LATEN. Hence, LATEN is the correct answer.
18Female French friendAMIE????✨ See Why
The clue "Female French friend" signals the answer is in French. In French, "friend" is ami (masculine) or amie (feminine). Since the clue specifies "female," the feminine form amie is correct. Additionally, "friend" directly translates to amie in the context of a female friend.
21Sound at a massage parlorAHH???✨ See Why
The clue "Sound at a massage parlor" suggests a nonverbal expression. A soothing massage often prompts a deeply relaxed or relieved vocalization, like "AHH," mimicking the sound of contentment or pleasure. The repetition of letters conveys the drawn-out relaxation associated with the experience.
22Actress ZellwegerRENEE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Actress Zellweger" directly refers to the famous actress Renée Zellweger. She is well-known for her roles in films like Bridget Jones's Diary and Chicago. The answer "RENEE" is simply her first name, matching the clue's straightforward description.
23Pet adoption org.ASPCA?????✨ See Why
The answer "ASPCA" refers to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals. It’s a well-known organization that helps rescue animals, promotes adoption, and prevents animal cruelty, fitting perfectly with the clue "Pet adoption org." as it directly works in pet adoption and welfare.
24TaboosNONOS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Taboos" refers to things that are socially or culturally prohibited or unacceptable. "NONOS" is a colloquial term for actions or behaviors considered forbidden or off-limits, making it an apt synonym for taboos. The plural form matches the plural clue.
25Kind of listTODO????✨ See Why
The clue "Kind of list" refers to a specific type of list often used for organizing tasks or responsibilities. A "to-do" list is a common term for a list of tasks to complete, making TODO the correct answer. It directly describes this kind of organizational tool.
26Blossoms-to-beBUDS????✨ See Why
The clue "Blossoms-to-be" suggests something that will eventually become blossoms. BUDS are the undeveloped parts of a plant that grow and bloom into flowers, making them the perfect match for the clue. This is a straightforward reference to plant growth terminology.
29"Too ___" (2024 #1 Hozier hit)SWEET?????✨ See Why
The answer is SWEET because "Too Sweet" is a popular 2024 song by the artist Hozier, making it a direct reference to the artist's hit. The blank signals the second part of the song title, fitting the clue perfectly.
30Tsp. or tbsp.AMT???✨ See Why
The clue "Tsp. or tbsp." refers to abbreviations for teaspoon and tablespoon, which are measurements. The shared concept here is "amount," and the abbreviated nature of the clue suggests the answer should also be an abbreviation. Therefore, the solution is AMT, short for "amount."
32Daisylike flowerASTER?????✨ See Why
The answer "ASTER" is correct for "Daisylike flower" because asters are flowers with a similar appearance to daisies, featuring a central disk surrounded by petal-like rays. Their resemblance to daisies makes them a fitting solution for this straightforward botanical clue.
33OglesLEERS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Ogles" hints at a way of looking or staring, often with a suggestive or inappropriate intent. "LEERS" fits because it describes a type of gaze that is lustful or lecherous, aligning with the connotation of ogling. Both imply inspecting someone inappropriately.
34Removable Potato Head partsEARS????✨ See Why
The clue refers to the playful Mr. Potato Head toy, which comes with detachable body parts for customization. EARS are one of the toy's removable features, making them a perfect fit for this clue. The plural aligns with "parts."
37Happily/after connectorEVER????✨ See Why
The phrase "happily ever after" is a well-known expression used in storytelling to signify a joyful conclusion. The word "ever" is the natural connector between "happily" and "after" in this phrase, making it the perfect answer to the clue "Happily/after connector."
38Flared facial featuresNOSTRILS????????✨ See Why
The clue "Flared facial features" refers to parts of the face that can physically flare, such as during strong emotions or breathing. NOSTRILS are the openings of the nose, which can visibly flare or expand, particularly during intense breathing or expressions, making this the correct answer.
41Spot to find 17-, 22-, 36- and 48-AcrossLIBRARY???????✨ See Why
LIBRARY is the solution because 17-, 22-, 36-, and 48-Across likely reference book-related terms or titles (common in libraries). The clue suggests these entries share a connection, and the library is the logical "spot" to find books, tying the theme together.
44"Your point also"THATTOO???????✨ See Why
The clue "Your point also" in quotes signals conversational phrasing. In dialogue, if someone agrees or acknowledges another's argument, they might respond with "That too," emphasizing inclusion of the referenced point. Thus, the answer "THATTOO" fits as a natural spoken response.
46It sells, in an axiomSEX???✨ See Why
The solution "SEX" refers to the popular saying or axiom "Sex sells," highlighting how sexual appeal is often used in marketing to attract attention and boost sales. This clue plays on the direct link between the axiom and its meaning.
47Computer operatorUSER????✨ See Why
The answer "USER" fits the clue "Computer operator" because a "user" is the person who operates or interacts with a computer by utilizing its software, applications, or functions. It’s the general term for someone actively engaging with a computer system.
48Sip slowlyNURSE?????✨ See Why
The answer "NURSE" fits because it describes the act of sipping a drink slowly to make it last—similar to how someone might "nurse" a beverage over time. This metaphor is often used to imply careful, gradual enjoyment of a drink.
49Letter-shaped fastenerUBOLT?????✨ See Why
The answer "UBOLT" fits because it describes a fastener shaped like the letter "U." A U-bolt is a metal fastener with a curved section and threaded ends, often used to secure pipes or heavy objects. The clue directly refers to the shape and function of this hardware piece.
50Laminated restaurant itemsMENUS?????✨ See Why
The answer "MENUS" fits because laminated items in restaurants are often the menus, which are protected from wear and spills by lamination. The clue directly describes these laminated items without wordplay, making "MENUS" a straightforward and logical solution.
51"Surprise Symphony" composerHAYDN?????✨ See Why
The "Surprise Symphony" is a nickname for Symphony No. 94 by Austrian composer Joseph Haydn. It earned this nickname due to its sudden loud chord in the otherwise soft second movement, meant to surprise listeners. Haydn, a key figure in classical music, composed many famous symphonies, including this one.
52Cary of "The Princess Bride"ELWES?????✨ See Why
The answer "ELWES" refers to Cary Elwes, the actor who played the iconic role of Westley (a.k.a. the Dread Pirate Roberts) in the beloved 1987 movie The Princess Bride. The clue directly names Cary, making his last name the solution.
56DepleteSAP???✨ See Why
The word "SAP" means to gradually weaken or drain something, which aligns with "Deplete," as both suggest reducing or exhausting resources, strength, or energy. The connection works directly, capturing the core meaning of "Deplete" in a succinct, single word.
57Sportage makerKIA???✨ See Why
KIA is the solution because it is the South Korean automobile manufacturer known for producing the Sportage, a popular compact SUV. The clue directly refers to the maker of the specific car model.
58Collector's item, informally?IOU???✨ See Why
The clue "Collector's item, informally?" involves wordplay. A "collector" could be someone owed money, and an "IOU" (informal for "I owe you") is a note acknowledging a debt. The "item" they collect is the IOU itself. The question mark hints at this playful interpretation.
59Lions' org.NFL???✨ See Why
The Detroit Lions are a professional football team, and their organization belongs to the NFL (National Football League). The clue uses "Lions" to refer to this team, making NFL the correct answer as their governing body.
60Neon or FreonGAS???✨ See Why
The answer is "GAS" because both Neon and Freon are types of gases. Neon is a noble gas used in lighting, while Freon is a refrigerant gas. The clue directly refers to their shared state of matter—gas.
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NYT Crossword Themes and Titles
The difficulty of the NYT Crossword evolves throughout the week, and a big part of that progression comes from its use of themes and titles.
Themes
Monday to Wednesday: These puzzles almost always have a theme, with several long answers connected by a common thread. Many include a “revealer” clue—a final answer that explains the theme’s pattern.
Thursday: Still themed, but often with an added twist. Expect trickier mechanics like rebus squares (where multiple letters fit in one box) or unconventional entry rules.
Friday & Saturday: These puzzles are themeless, relying instead on clever wordplay and more challenging vocabulary. Without a theme as a guide, the difficulty increases.
Sunday: The largest puzzle of the week is always themed, and its title offers a hint about the underlying concept.
Titles
Sunday puzzles always have a title that helps solvers identify the theme.
Monday through Saturday puzzles generally don’t have official titles.
While these patterns hold most of the time, creativity and playfulness are at the heart of crossword construction—so expect occasional surprises!
NYT Crossword Puzzle Availability
Online and All Access Subscribers: Daily puzzles are available the evening before their print release.
Weekday and Saturday Puzzles: Available at 10 p.m. EST the previous day.
Sunday Puzzles: Available at 6 p.m. EST on Saturday.
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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
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