The answer is RASTA because Safiya Sinclair's memoir, "How to Say Babylon," explores her upbringing in a Rastafarian family in Jamaica. "Rasta" refers to the Rastafarian culture, which includes its unique beliefs, traditions, and connections to Jamaica, central to the memoir's themes.
6English translation of the Dutch "klompen"CLOGS?????✨ See Why
The Dutch word "klompen" refers to traditional wooden shoes commonly worn in the Netherlands. The English translation for these shoes is "clogs." Hence, the answer to the clue "English translation of the Dutch 'klompen'" is CLOGS.
11Robotic error messageDOESNOTCOMPUTE??????????????✨ See Why
The answer "DOES NOT COMPUTE" is a classic phrase associated with robots or artificial intelligence failing to process information correctly. It perfectly fits the clue "Robotic error message" as it reflects a common sci-fi depiction of robots encountering something illogical or incomprehensible.
15Sooner rather than laterINTHENEARFUTURE???????????????✨ See Why
The phrase "Sooner rather than later" implies something happening relatively quickly or in a short time frame. "IN THE NEAR FUTURE" directly conveys this idea, as it suggests an event or action occurring soon, aligning perfectly with the clue's meaning.
17Preps for a photo shoot, saySTYLES??????✨ See Why
The clue "Preps for a photo shoot, say" refers to arranging or grooming appearances, like selecting outfits, hairstyles, or overall looks for a photo shoot. "Styles" captures this process, as it means organizing or designing visual elements, making it the perfect fit for the clue.
18Rest areasSPAS????✨ See Why
The clue "Rest areas" is a play on words. While it might initially suggest highway stops, it refers to places for relaxation and rejuvenation. SPAS are facilities where people go to rest, unwind, and enjoy treatments, fitting the pun in the clue perfectly.
19Engage in pugilismBOX???✨ See Why
The answer is BOX because "pugilism" refers to the sport of boxing, which involves fighting with fists. Therefore, to "engage in pugilism" is to BOX. This clue uses the direct definition of the sport.
20Rock alternativePAPER?????✨ See Why
The clue "Rock alternative" refers to the classic game Rock-Paper-Scissors. In this game, "Paper" is one of the alternatives to "Rock," as paper covers rock. This is a play on the game's mechanics, making "Paper" the fitting solution.
21X, as in MexicoBESO????✨ See Why
The clue "X, as in Mexico" uses "X" as shorthand for a kiss. In Mexico (and Spanish), "kiss" translates to BESO. The reference to Mexico serves as a language hint, indicating the answer should be in Spanish. Thus, BESO fits perfectly.
22InCHIC????✨ See Why
The clue "In" can mean fashionable or trendy, which aligns perfectly with CHIC. CHIC refers to style, elegance, and being in vogue, embodying the idea of being "in" or up-to-date in fashion or taste.
23Touching event?EPEE????✨ See Why
The clue "Touching event?" uses pun-based wordplay. "Touching" refers to the scoring in fencing, where competitors aim to "touch" their opponent with an EPEE, a type of fencing sword. The "event" portion hints at fencing as a competitive sport. Hence, EPEE is the answer.
24ForecastBODE????✨ See Why
The word "Forecast" in the clue refers to predicting or indicating a future outcome. "BODE" means to be an omen or sign of something, often good or bad, aligning with the definition of forecasting or foretelling. Thus, "BODE" is the correct answer.
25Some like it hotSAUCE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Some like it hot" employs wordplay, hinting at something people might prefer in a heated state. SAUCE fits because sauces, such as hot sauce, are often enjoyed warm or spicy. The phrase cleverly connects personal preference ("some like") with "hot" as a descriptor for sauces.
26Didn't followLED???✨ See Why
The answer "LED" works because "Didn't follow" can mean "was in front of," as in leading. To "lead" means to be ahead or guide, and if someone "led," they were ahead, meaning others didn't follow. This clue emphasizes wordplay.
27Itsy-bitsyMINI????✨ See Why
The clue "Itsy-bitsy" refers to something very small. "Mini" is a synonym for tiny or small in size, making it the perfect fit. It's a concise, straightforward answer matching the clue's meaning without additional wordplay or misdirection.
28Like one part of the SATVERBAL??????✨ See Why
The SAT is divided into sections, one of which is the "Verbal" section, focusing on reading and language skills. The clue “Like one part of the SAT” refers to this specific section, making VERBAL the appropriate answer. It directly describes that segment of the exam.
29Typical yearbook photosHEADSHOTS?????????✨ See Why
The answer "HEADSHOTS" refers to the standard close-up photos typically used in yearbooks, showcasing a person's face and upper shoulders. These are common, formal portraits for students and faculty in yearbooks, perfectly fitting the clue "Typical yearbook photos."
31Sisal and othersFIBERS??????✨ See Why
Sisal is a type of plant that produces strong, durable natural fibers, widely used for making ropes, mats, and more. The clue "Sisal and others" refers to similar materials derived from plants, making "FIBERS" the correct answer as it encompasses sisal and similar products.
34It can add upMATH????✨ See Why
The clue "It can add up" employs wordplay, as "add up" relates to addition, a fundamental operation in mathematics (MATH). MATH involves calculations, like adding numbers, that result in totals. Thus, MATH fittingly answers the clue as "it" that literally enables things to "add up."
35A real piece of workJOB???✨ See Why
The clue "A real piece of work" uses wordplay. "Piece of work" can refer to a task or assignment, and in this context, "real" emphasizes its existence. A "job" is literally a real piece of work someone performs, making JOB the fitting answer.
38That feeling "when the world seems to shine like you've had too much wine"AMORE?????✨ See Why
The clue quotes lyrics from the song "That's Amore," famously sung by Dean Martin. In the song, "when the world seems to shine like you've had too much wine" describes the romantic feeling of "amore," which means "love" in Italian. Thus, the answer is AMORE.
39Word before piece and after peaceTIME????✨ See Why
The answer "TIME" fits the clue because "timepiece" is a common compound word referring to a clock or watch (word before "piece"). Similarly, the phrase "peace time" refers to a period without war (word after "peace"). The word "TIME" seamlessly connects both phrases.
40Glazier's replacementPANE????✨ See Why
A glazier works with glass, often replacing or installing window glass. A "PANE" refers to a single sheet of glass within a window. If a glazier replaces broken glass, the "replacement" is a new pane, making PANE the fitting answer to this clue.
41Some sky lights, in briefUFOS????✨ See Why
The clue "Some sky lights, in brief" hints at unidentified flying objects (UFOs), which are often described as mysterious, glowing lights seen in the sky. The phrase "in brief" signals an abbreviation, thus leading to the answer UFOS. The play on "lights" ties to their enigmatic appearance.
42Person with fire powerBOSS????✨ See Why
The clue "Person with fire power?" includes a pun. "Fire power" cleverly refers to authority to "fire" employees, which is a power typically held by a BOSS. Hence, BOSS is the correct solution, fitting the wordplay and context of the clue.
43Miso soup baseDASHI?????✨ See Why
The answer is DASHI because it is a traditional Japanese soup stock made from ingredients like kombu (kelp) and bonito flakes. DASHI serves as the foundational broth for many Japanese dishes, including miso soup, providing its distinct savory flavor.
44Director's cryCUT???✨ See Why
The answer "CUT" fits because a film director uses this command to stop a scene during filming. This is a common, spoken term in the context of movie production, making it the perfect solution for the clue "Director's cry."
45One of four suits in a tarot deckCUPS????✨ See Why
In a tarot deck, there are four suits: Cups, Wands, Swords, and Pentacles. "Cups" represent emotions, relationships, and intuition, making it one of the standard suits within the deck. This matches the clue directly, identifying "Cups" as one of the four tarot suits.
46Source of schadenfreude?GERMAN??????✨ See Why
The clue "Source of schadenfreude?" plays on the fact that "schadenfreude," meaning pleasure from others' misfortune, is a German word. The question mark signals wordplay, emphasizing the term’s linguistic origin. Thus, the "source" referenced is the German language, making the answer GERMAN.
47"Let me handle this"ILLDOTHETALKING???????????????✨ See Why
The clue "Let me handle this" is in quotation marks, signaling a spoken phrase. "I'LL DO THE TALKING" is a direct response someone might say when taking control of a conversation or situation, perfectly matching the clue's intent of taking charge through speech.
50Small businesses that generally don't require permitsLEMONADESTANDS??????????????✨ See Why
The answer "LEMONADE STANDS" fits because they are small, informal businesses often run by children selling lemonade, usually in residential areas. These stands are typically casual and temporary, so they usually operate without the need for official permits, aligning perfectly with the clue's description.
51Sensitive subject?GSPOT?????✨ See Why
The clue “Sensitive subject?” uses a pun. "Sensitive subject" refers to a topic related to sensitivity, but with wordplay, it hints at the G-spot, an erogenous zone known for its physical sensitivity. The question mark signals the playful, double-meaning nature of the clue.
52Figure on the $10,000 bill, the largest U.S. note ever in public circulationCHASE?????✨ See Why
The answer is CHASE because Salmon P. Chase, U.S. Treasury Secretary during the Civil War and later Chief Justice, was featured on the $10,000 bill. This note, the largest ever publicly circulated, honored his significant role in shaping U.S. fiscal policy and introducing paper currency.
Down
1Corrected autocorrect, sayRETYPED???????✨ See Why
The clue "Corrected autocorrect, say" suggests an action of fixing a text error caused by autocorrect. "Say" hints at an example or manner of doing so. To fix such errors, one would often manually delete and retype the text. Thus, the answer "RETYPED" fits perfectly.
2Younger Simpson sisterASHLEE??????✨ See Why
The clue “Younger Simpson sister” refers to Ashlee Simpson, the younger sister of singer and actress Jessica Simpson. Ashlee is known for her music career and reality TV appearances, making her the fitting answer to this straightforward, factual clue.
3Mean mienSNEER?????✨ See Why
"Mien" refers to one's facial expression or demeanor, and "mean" suggests something harsh or contemptuous. A SNEER is a facial expression showing disdain or contempt, aligning perfectly with both "mean" and "mien," making it the apt solution to the clue.
4Freight weightsTONS????✨ See Why
The clue "Freight weights" straightforwardly refers to units commonly used to measure large, heavy shipments or cargo. "TONS" fits perfectly as it is a standard term for heavy weights often associated with freight, matching the plural clue structure and context.
5Had one's cake, sayATE???✨ See Why
The clue "Had one's cake, say" uses "say" to suggest a synonym or interpretation. To "have" cake can imply eating it. The past tense "had" aligns with ATE, meaning consumed. It’s a straightforward play on the common act of eating cake.
6Body of Agatha Christie's work?CORPSE??????✨ See Why
The clue "Body of Agatha Christie's work?" is a play on words. Agatha Christie is famously known for her murder mysteries, where a "body" (a corpse) often plays a central role. The pun is on "body" referring to both her collection of work and a literal corpse.
7"u r freaking hilarious!"LMFAO?????✨ See Why
The clue "u r freaking hilarious!" is a colloquial, informal expression indicating intense laughter. LMFAO ("Laughing My Freaking A** Off") is an internet slang acronym often used in texting or online to express extreme amusement, making it the perfect match for this clue's tone and meaning.
8Work with a numberOPUS????✨ See Why
The answer "OPUS" fits because "opus" is a term for a creative work, often musical. The clue's phrase "number" typically refers to a musical piece or song, and an opus is a numbered composition in classical music, linking "work" and "number" cleverly together.
9EviscerateGUT???✨ See Why
The word "eviscerate" means to remove the internal organs of something, often metaphorically meaning to destroy or hollow out. "Gut" is a concise synonym for physically removing internal organs, aligning perfectly with the clue's intended meaning. Hence, GUT is the correct solution.
10Ticket exchange site since 2000STUBHUB???????✨ See Why
The answer is STUBHUB because it is a well-known ticket resale website that has been facilitating ticket exchanges for events like concerts, sports, and theater since its founding in 2000. The clue directly points to its purpose and timeline, making STUBHUB the fitting solution.
11BanishDISPEL??????✨ See Why
The word "Banish" means to drive away or eliminate something, often associated with getting rid of fears, doubts, or misconceptions. "Dispel" directly aligns with this definition, as it means to cause something to vanish or scatter, making it the perfect synonym and solution.
12Like old voice mail messagesONTAPE??????✨ See Why
The answer "ONTAPE" refers to how old voice mail messages were originally recorded and stored on physical tapes, before the advent of digital storage. The clue evokes nostalgia and highlights outdated technology, making ONTAPE the fitting solution.
13Order in the court?CASEDISMISSED?????????????✨ See Why
The clue “Order in the court?” ends with a question mark, indicating wordplay. Here, "Order" is a legal decision or statement, and "Order in the court" can amusingly refer to a judge dismissing a case. "CASE DISMISSED" is both a legal declaration and resolves the playful clue.
14Symphony that marked the beginning of Beethoven's "middle period"EROICA??????✨ See Why
The answer is EROICA because Beethoven’s "Symphony No. 3" is famously titled Eroica, meaning "heroic" in Italian. This groundbreaking symphony marked a departure from his earlier style, initiating his "middle period," characterized by bold, innovative compositions. It was originally dedicated to Napoleon but later revised.
16Office programEXCEL?????✨ See Why
The clue "Office program" refers to software from Microsoft Office. Excel is a popular program within this suite, primarily used for creating spreadsheets, managing data, and performing calculations. The answer fits logically as Excel is a well-known "Office program."
21My word!BOND????✨ See Why
The clue "My word!" suggests an exclamation or a significant term regarding trust, connection, or promise. The answer, BOND, aligns as it represents a commitment or union, fitting the exclamatory tone. This subtle wordplay reflects "My word!" as a pledge or assurance, synonymous with bond.
22Saturn and MercuryCARS????✨ See Why
The clue "Saturn and Mercury" refers to a play on words. While they are planets, they are also car brands. Saturn was a brand of cars by General Motors, and Mercury was a brand by Ford. Hence, the solution is CARS, highlighting the wordplay in the clue.
24FavoritismBIAS????✨ See Why
The term "favoritism" implies an unfair preference toward one side or group, which aligns with the definition of "bias." Bias represents partiality or prejudice in decision-making or opinions, making it a direct synonym for favoritism in this context.
25First name in late-nightSETH????✨ See Why
The answer is SETH because Seth Meyers is a prominent host in late-night television, leading "Late Night with Seth Meyers." The clue refers to a well-known figure in this entertainment genre, and Seth Meyers fits perfectly as a first name associated with late-night shows.
27JustMERE????✨ See Why
The solution "MERE" fits the clue "Just" because both words can mean "no more than" or "only." For example, "It's just a scratch" can also mean "It's merely a scratch," highlighting their synonymous nature in this context.
28Primary actionVOTE????✨ See Why
The clue "Primary action" refers to the act of voting in a primary election, which is a key step in selecting candidates for general elections. "Primary" here signifies the election process, and the "action" involved is casting a VOTE. Hence, the correct answer is VOTE.
29Partner of hisHERS????✨ See Why
The clue "Partner of his" refers to the possessive counterpart to "his." In English, the possessive pronoun that pairs with "his" is "hers," indicating ownership or association. Together, "his and hers" often describe items meant for a couple, making HERS the correct answer.
30They can be curedHAMS????✨ See Why
The clue "They can be cured" is a wordplay clue. "Cured" refers to the process of preserving meats, like salting or smoking. HAMS are a type of meat that can undergo this curing process. The pun lies in interpreting "cured" beyond its typical medical meaning.
31"On Call: A Doctor's Journey in Public Service" memoirist, 2024FAUCI?????✨ See Why
The answer is FAUCI because Dr. Anthony Fauci, a prominent immunologist and public health leader, announced plans to publish his memoir, "On Call: A Doctor's Journey in Public Service," reflecting on his decades-long career, including his role during the COVID-19 pandemic. This aligns with the clue's description.
32"Nothing more for me, thank you"IMFULL??????✨ See Why
The clue "Nothing more for me, thank you" is enclosed in quotes, signaling a spoken phrase. "I'M FULL" is a common expression used when someone has eaten enough and is politely declining more. It matches the context of politely refusing additional food or portions.
33Illegal musical recording, e.g.BOOTLEG???????✨ See Why
The answer "BOOTLEG" fits because it refers to an illegal copy or recording of a musical performance, often unauthorized and distributed without consent. The term originates from smugglers hiding contraband in their boots, making it a fitting word for something covert and illicit, like illegal music recordings.
35Fragrant flower whose name means "gift from God"JASMINE???????✨ See Why
The answer is JASMINE because this flower is known for its sweet fragrance, fitting "fragrant flower." Its name originates from Persian "yasmin," translating to "gift from God," aligning perfectly with the clue's meaning. Additionally, jasmine is widely associated with beauty and divine blessings, reinforcing the connection.
36In stockONHAND??????✨ See Why
The phrase "In stock" implies something that is currently available or readily accessible. Similarly, "ONHAND" describes items or supplies that are immediately available or within reach, making it the fitting solution to the clue.
37They're aliveBEINGS??????✨ See Why
The clue "They're alive" uses the phrase to describe entities that exist and have life. The word BEINGS refers to living creatures, such as humans, animals, or other sentient forms, aligning perfectly with the clue's meaning. Both hint at existence and life.
39Bit of attire that might accompany a caneTOPHAT??????✨ See Why
The answer "TOPHAT" fits because a top hat is a classic piece of formal attire historically associated with sophistication or elegance. This type of outfit was often complemented by a cane, especially in the 19th and early 20th centuries, making "TOPHAT" the correct choice.
40Some products sold by PatagoniaPARKAS??????✨ See Why
The answer is PARKAS because Patagonia is an outdoor clothing and gear brand specializing in products for cold weather and outdoor activities. Parkas, being insulated jackets designed for warmth in harsh climates, are a common item sold by the brand.
42"On the contrary …"BUTNO?????✨ See Why
The clue "On the contrary …" in quotes suggests a conversational phrase expressing disagreement or contradiction. "But no" is commonly used in speech to present an opposing point ("but, on the contrary, no"). The phrasing aligns perfectly with the casual context implied by the quotation marks.
43Area around a mouthDELTA?????✨ See Why
The clue "Area around a mouth" uses wordplay. A "mouth" can refer to the opening of a river where it meets a larger body of water. The "area around" such a mouth is often a DELTA, a landform formed by sediment deposits as the river flows into the sea or a lake.
45Place to broodCOOP????✨ See Why
The clue "Place to brood" refers to where birds, especially chickens, sit to hatch their eggs. A "coop" is a small enclosure or cage where chickens are housed and often where they brood. This literal definition makes COOP the solution.
46Cause for stitchesGASH????✨ See Why
The clue "Cause for stitches" refers to a deep cut or wound that might require medical stitches to close. GASH is a term for such a deep, severe cut, making it the perfect fit for this clue.
48Hits up, as on TikTokDMS???✨ See Why
The answer "DMS" stands for "Direct Messages." On TikTok and other social platforms, to "hit someone up" often means to send them a private message, which is done through DMs. The phrasing aligns with the casual tone commonly used in such platforms.
49P.I.TEC???✨ See Why
The clue "P.I." refers to a private investigator. "TEC" is a slang abbreviation for "detective," commonly associated with private investigators in mystery or crime contexts. The clue's brevity hints at this shorthand term, making TEC the correct answer.
Dena R. Verkuil’s first themeless for the Times is an energetic, slightly spicy Friday romp, impressive for a constructor’s third NYT puzzle. The grid balances marathon entries like DOESNOTCOMPUTE, INTHENEARFUTURE, LEMONADESTANDS and ILLDOTHETALKING with crisp shorter fill (MATH, DASHI, AMORE). Pop-culture shout-outs (LMFAO, STUBHUB) and a cheeky entry (GSPOT) give the puzzle personality and a wink. Cluing ranges from straightforward to sly, and the long Downs and acrosses interlock cleanly. It’s a lively, modern themeless that plays harder than it looks and rewards both patience and a sense of humor.
Today's Tricky Wordplay
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:
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 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.
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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