The clue "Beauty lounge, of a sort" suggests a place related to beauty services. A "BLOWDRYBAR" is a specific type of salon or "lounge" where clients go primarily for blowouts (hair styling via blow-drying). The phrase matches the description of a modern, specialized beauty venue.
11CalmHUSH????✨ See Why
The clue "Calm" suggests quietness or silence. "HUSH" directly means to quiet or silence someone or something, aligning perfectly with the clue. It is a concise term commonly associated with calming situations or encouraging quietness, making it an ideal match for "Calm."
15Mexico's Chamber of Deputies or France's National Assembly, for exampleLOWERHOUSE??????????✨ See Why
The clue refers to legislative bodies in Mexico and France, both of which are the lower chambers of their respective bicameral legislatures. The Chamber of Deputies (Mexico) and the National Assembly (France) serve as the LOWER HOUSE, complementing their upper houses: the Senate. Thus, LOWERHOUSE fits perfectly.
16Cash on hand?ANTE????✨ See Why
The clue "Cash on hand?" uses a question mark to indicate a pun or wordplay. "Ante" refers to a stake or amount of money players place on the table before a poker game begins, literally "cash on hand" to participate. The wordplay ties "cash" to gambling vocabulary.
17French kiss kissersOPENMOUTHS??????????✨ See Why
The clue "French kiss kissers?" signals wordplay. French kissing involves open mouths during the act. Thus, "OPENMOUTHS" fits as the playful and literal answer to describe those engaging in a French kiss. It's a clever pun on the act itself.
18PullSWAY????✨ See Why
The clue "Pull" leads to SWAY because "pull" can metaphorically mean influence or persuasion, and "sway" is often used to describe the ability to influence or sway someone's opinion or actions, aligning with the figurative use of the term.
19Leading counsel?BESTADVICE??????????✨ See Why
The clue "Leading counsel?" includes a pun (indicated by the question mark). "Leading" suggests the "best," and "counsel" refers to advice. Together, "BEST ADVICE" is a playful way to describe the most effective guidance or "leading counsel."
20Parting wordTATA????✨ See Why
The clue "Parting word" refers to a casual or informal way of saying goodbye. "TATA" is a British English expression often used as an affectionate, lighthearted farewell. It fits the clue perfectly as it is a commonly recognized "parting word."
21One of the First NationsCREE????✨ See Why
The Cree are an Indigenous people in Canada and one of the largest First Nations groups. The clue directly asks for "One of the First Nations," and CREE fits both the definition and the crossword's letter count.
22Tied upALLEVEN???????✨ See Why
The clue "Tied up" hints at a situation where both sides are equal or balanced, such as in a game score. "All even" is another way of saying everything is level or tied. The phrase ALLEVEN satisfies this wordplay and fits the definition perfectly.
24Évariste ___, 19th-century French math prodigy for whom a differential theory is namedGALOIS??????✨ See Why
The answer is GALOIS because Évariste Galois was a 19th-century French mathematician known for his revolutionary work in abstract algebra. He developed Galois theory, which applies group theory to solve polynomial equations and analyze symmetries, making him one of history's greatest math prodigies.
27Melancholy 1964 #1 hit for Bobby VintonMRLONELY????????✨ See Why
The answer is MRLONELY because Bobby Vinton's 1964 hit song "Mr. Lonely" reached #1 on the charts and is renowned for its melancholy tone, expressing deep loneliness and longing. The title directly matches the clue, making it the perfect fit for the crossword solution.
28Sponge brand originally spelled with two hyphensOCELO?????✨ See Why
The answer is OCELO because it refers to the sponge brand "O-Cel-O," which was originally hyphenated as "O-Cel-O" before transitioning to its current single-word form. This matches the clue's reference to the brand's original hyphenated spelling.
29SpotsSITES?????✨ See Why
"Spots" can refer to locations or places, which aligns with the definition of "SITES." Both words denote specific areas or positions, often used interchangeably to describe places where something is found or occurs. This clue plays on the synonym for "spots" as physical locations.
30N.B.A. stat: Abbr.REB???✨ See Why
The clue "N.B.A. stat: Abbr." asks for an abbreviated basketball statistic. REB stands for "rebounds," a key stat in the NBA that tracks how many times a player retrieves the ball after a missed shot. The abbreviation aligns perfectly with the clue's "Abbr." hint.
31SlightlyATAD????✨ See Why
The answer "ATAD" for the clue "Slightly" plays on the phrase "a tad," which is a common informal expression meaning a small amount or slightly. This direct synonym makes "ATAD" a fitting solution for the clue.
32Practitioner of black magicHEXER?????✨ See Why
The answer "HEXER" refers to someone who casts hexes, which are spells or curses typically associated with black magic. The word "practitioner" in the clue aligns with this, as it denotes someone who actively engages in such magical practices. "Hex" directly connects to the idea of black magic or curses.
33Kind of box for media watchersTIVO????✨ See Why
TIVO is the answer because it refers to a popular brand of digital video recorders (DVRs), often called "boxes," used to watch and record TV. "Media watchers" hints at TV viewers, while "box" cleverly signifies the DVR device.
34"___ the Damn Season" (Taylor Swift holiday song)TIS???✨ See Why
The clue references Taylor Swift's holiday song "'Tis the Damn Season." The phrase "'tis" is a poetic contraction of "it is," commonly used in holiday or old-fashioned contexts. Here, it completes the song title, making TIS the correct answer.
35Machine for a highway crewPAVER?????✨ See Why
The answer "PAVER" fits because it’s a machine commonly used by highway crews to lay asphalt or concrete while constructing or resurfacing roads. It smoothly spreads the material, forming a flat, even surface, essential for highway construction and maintenance. The clue directly refers to this equipment's role.
36Like bismuth and bitcoinMINED?????✨ See Why
The answer is MINED because both bismuth (a metal) and bitcoin (a cryptocurrency) are extracted in a process referred to as "mining." Bismuth is mined from the earth, while bitcoin is obtained through a computational process called cryptocurrency mining. The clue uses a shared characteristic to connect the terms.
37Swimwear that can be worn as shortsBOARDIES????????✨ See Why
The answer "BOARDIES" refers to board shorts, a type of swimwear often worn by surfers. They are versatile, knee-length, and resemble casual shorts, making them suitable for both swimming and everyday wear. The clue hints at their dual purpose as swimwear and regular shorts.
39Full of snickersGIGGLY??????✨ See Why
The clue "Full of snickers" plays on the word "snickers" as giggles or light laughter, not the candy. "GIGGLY" describes someone prone to giggling or laughing lightly, hence "full of snickers." It fits perfectly within this playful interpretation.
40Try to break, as a bad habitUNLEARN???????✨ See Why
The term UNLEARN fits because breaking a bad habit often requires "unlearning" the behaviors or patterns associated with it. "Try to break" emphasizes an effort to undo or reverse learned behavior, aligning perfectly with the concept of unlearning something ingrained, like a bad habit.
41Curve that's high and outside?ARCH????✨ See Why
The clue "Curve that's high and outside?" uses wordplay. An "arch" is a curved structure that can be described as "high" in shape, and it also describes something "outside," such as an architectural feature. The question mark indicates the playful, metaphorical use of "curve." ARCH fits perfectly.
42Abbreviated first name found three times on the signed Declaration of IndependenceTHOS????✨ See Why
The solution is THOS, an abbreviation for "Thomas." The Declaration of Independence is signed by three individuals named Thomas: Thomas Jefferson, Thomas Lynch Jr., and Thomas McKean. The clue specifies "Abbreviated first name," leading to this shortened form of Thomas.
431990 novelty dance inspired by a comics superheroTHEBARTMAN??????????✨ See Why
The answer "THEBARTMAN" refers to a 1990 novelty dance song titled "Do the Bartman," inspired by Bart Simpson from the animated series The Simpsons. Bart, a mischievous comic-like character, was popularized as a superhero figure in pop culture, influencing this dance trend tied to his persona.
48Staple of an outdoor receptionTENT????✨ See Why
The solution "TENT" fits because a tent is a common fixture at outdoor receptions, providing shelter and serving as a centerpiece for events like weddings, parties, or banquets. It’s a functional and symbolic "staple" of such gatherings, ensuring comfort and weather protection.
49Became a marquee name, sayROSETOFAME??????????✨ See Why
The solution "ROSETOFAME" fits the clue "Became a marquee name, say" because it refers to gaining fame and recognition, metaphorically rising in prominence, like one's name appearing on a marquee. "Marquee name" implies a celebrated or well-known individual, aligning with the phrase "rose to fame."
50Logical connectiveERGO????✨ See Why
The answer "ERGO" is used as a logical connective meaning "therefore" or "as a result." It connects premises to conclusions in logical reasoning. For example, "A, ergo B" expresses that B follows logically from A, fitting the clue's context of logical connection.
51Lovers of "Emma" and "Persuasion"AUSTENITES??????????✨ See Why
The clue refers to "Emma" and "Persuasion," both novels by celebrated author Jane Austen. "Austenites" is a term used for devoted fans or admirers of Jane Austen's works, which aptly describes "lovers" of these literary classics. The suffix "-ites" often denotes followers or enthusiasts.
52Equine colorROAN????✨ See Why
The answer is ROAN because it refers to a distinctive equine coat color seen in horses. ROAN describes a mix of colored and white hairs, giving the horse a speckled or blended appearance. It's a common term specifically used for horse colors in the equine world, fitting the clue perfectly.
53Way to begin gaming, sayPRESSSTART??????????✨ See Why
The clue "Way to begin gaming, say" hints at a familiar action taken to start gaming, often seen in older video games or consoles. "PRESS START" is commonly displayed on screens, prompting users to begin playing by pressing the "Start" button, making it the fitting answer.
Down
1Appearance of the marine creature called "by-the-wind sailor"BLOB????✨ See Why
The "by-the-wind sailor," a marine creature (a type of jelly-like organism), often has a shapeless or amorphous appearance, akin to a "blob." The clue references how this creature looks, making "BLOB" a fitting descriptive answer.
2Run easilyLOPE????✨ See Why
The solution "LOPE" fits because it describes a smooth, relaxed gait often associated with easy running, particularly in animals like horses or runners conserving energy. The clue suggests an effortless motion, and LOPE perfectly captures this sense of running without strain or difficulty.
3Hasn't settled upOWES????✨ See Why
The clue "Hasn't settled up" refers to a situation where a payment or debt remains unpaid. The word "OWES" fits perfectly, as it describes owing money or being in debt, meaning the person has not yet resolved or "settled up" their dues.
4Foundered, as an investigationWENTCOLD????????✨ See Why
"Foundered" suggests something failing or coming to a halt. In investigations, when leads or progress diminish, they are said to have "gone cold." The past tense matches "foundered," making WENTCOLD the apt answer for an investigation that stalled or stopped progressing.
5Nintendo title character with a head mirrorDRMARIO???????✨ See Why
The answer "DRMARIO" refers to the Nintendo character Dr. Mario, who is a doctor-themed version of Mario, a famous video game character. The "head mirror" in the clue alludes to the reflective circular headband traditionally worn by doctors, which Dr. Mario is depicted wearing in the game.
6Largest of the Dodecanese IslandsRHODES??????✨ See Why
The Dodecanese Islands are a group of Greek islands in the Aegean Sea. Rhodes, known for its historical significance and size, is the largest among them. This makes RHODES the correct answer to the clue "Largest of the Dodecanese Islands."
7"___ changed"YOUVE?????✨ See Why
The clue "___ changed" suggests a phrase completing this blank. "YOU'VE changed" is a common expression signifying personal transformation, perfectly fitting the blank. The contraction "YOU'VE" (short for "you have") aligns grammatically and contextually to complete this familiar phrase. The quotation marks signal conversational phrasing.
8"___ disagree"BUTI????✨ See Why
The clue "___ disagree" signals a conversational or spoken phrase. The answer "BUT I" fits because it is commonly used to introduce a contrasting opinion in speech, as in "But I disagree." It flows naturally in dialogue and completes the phrase contextually.
9Barack Obama's final secretary of defense (2015-17)ASHCARTER?????????✨ See Why
The answer is ASHCARTER because Ashton B. Carter, commonly known as Ash Carter, served as the U.S. Secretary of Defense from 2015 to 2017. He held the position during the final years of Barack Obama's presidency, making him Obama's last Secretary of Defense.
10One who profits from eBay, sayRESELLER????????✨ See Why
The answer "RESELLER" fits because it describes someone who buys items, often at a lower price, and sells them for profit. eBay is a platform where users commonly resell goods, making "RESELLER" a direct description of one who profits on such transactions.
11ExpediteHASTEN??????✨ See Why
The word "Expedite" means to speed up or hasten a process. "HASTEN" directly aligns with this definition, as it means to move quickly or to accelerate an action. Both terms share the essence of urgency and swiftness, making HASTEN the perfect synonym and solution.
12Rock solidUNWAVERING??????????✨ See Why
The clue "Rock solid" metaphorically suggests firmness, determination, or stability—qualities described by "UNWAVERING." Something UNWAVERING, like steadfast resolve, doesn’t waver or falter, making it figuratively "rock solid." This explanation connects the metaphorical robustness of both the clue and the answer.
13Where the 10th Amendment leaves many issuesSTATELEVEL??????????✨ See Why
The 10th Amendment reserves powers not delegated to the federal government to the states or the people. This decentralizes authority, leaving many issues to be addressed at the state level rather than federally, making "STATELEVEL" the accurate answer to this clue.
14Call to whomeverHEYANYBODY??????????✨ See Why
The clue "Call to whomever" suggests a casual, non-specific call for attention. HEYANYBODY fits perfectly as a phrase someone might yell when addressing no one in particular but hoping for a response. It's informal and aligns with the clue's generality, matching the tone and intent of "whomever."
23___ Alamitos, Calif.LOS???✨ See Why
The answer "LOS" completes the place name "Los Alamitos," a city in California. "Los" is the Spanish word for "the," commonly found in Californian city names due to the state's Spanish heritage, such as Los Angeles or Los Altos. Hence, "Los Alamitos" is the full city name.
24Dairy spread in a health food storeGOATBUTTER??????????✨ See Why
The solution is GOATBUTTER because it is a type of butter made from goat's milk—a dairy product. Health food stores often stock specialty or alternative items like this for those seeking unique, possibly healthier, options compared to standard cow's milk butter.
25Bond classificationACTIONHERO??????????✨ See Why
The clue "Bond classification" refers to James Bond, a famous fictional character known for performing daring feats and saving the day. This aligns with the concept of an "ACTION HERO," a term for protagonists in action-packed films, like Bond. Hence, the answer is ACTIONHERO.
26Tony-winning actress who provided the singing voice for the Disney princesses Jasmine and MulanLEASALONGA??????????✨ See Why
The answer is LEASALONGA because Lea Salonga is a Tony-winning actress known for her Broadway work. She provided the singing voice for Princess Jasmine in Aladdin and Fa Mulan in Mulan. These iconic Disney roles highlight her celebrated vocal talent, fitting perfectly with the clue.
27Is a social butterflyMIXES?????✨ See Why
The phrase "Is a social butterfly" metaphorically describes someone who mingles or interacts freely in social settings. The answer "MIXES" aligns with this, as it refers to engaging and blending with various groups or people, fitting the nature of a social butterfly.
29Like a typical flight from New York to LondonSEVENHOUR?????????✨ See Why
The clue describes the typical duration of a flight from New York to London. Such flights usually take around seven hours. Since "seven-hour" properly represents the approximate length of the journey, it fits the phrasing of the clue perfectly. Thus, the answer is SEVENHOUR.
32Shower drain protectorHAIRTRAP????????✨ See Why
The answer "HAIRTRAP" fits because a shower drain protector is designed to catch hair and prevent it from clogging the drain. The term "trap" implies capturing or stopping something—in this case, hair—making "HAIRTRAP" a clear and practical solution to the clue.
33Property of a wet suit or shapewearTIGHTFIT????????✨ See Why
The answer "TIGHTFIT" describes a key property of both a wet suit and shapewear—they are designed to fit snugly against the body. This tightness ensures functionality: wet suits trap a thin layer of water for insulation, while shapewear contours the body for a streamlined look.
35Smack in the middle of a crowd, in brief?PDA???✨ See Why
The clue uses wordplay with "Smack" and "in the middle of a crowd," suggesting a public display of affection (like a kiss, hug, or similar act) that occurs openly around others. The abbreviation PDA stands for Public Display of Affection, fitting the playful tone of the clue.
36Units for measuring bacteria and dustMICRONS???????✨ See Why
MICRONS is the solution because it is a unit of measurement equal to one-millionth of a meter (also called micrometers). This tiny scale is used to measure extremely small particles, such as bacteria and dust, which are often just a few microns in size.
38SurmountRESTON??????✨ See Why
The clue "Surmount" cleverly hints at a veiled capital. Reston is a city in Virginia, whose name humorously implies "rest on" or "to surmount/rest upon something." This wordplay connects "surmount" with the concept of resting or rising atop.
39Hazards for high heelsGRATES??????✨ See Why
The answer "GRATES" solves the clue "Hazards for high heels" because metal grates or grids, often found on sidewalks or streets, have gaps that can easily catch and trap the thin heels of high-heeled shoes, posing a risk to wearers. This is a practical and tricky hazard!
41Provides job assistance?ABETS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Provides job assistance?" with a question mark signals wordplay. "Abets" means to assist or support, often in wrongdoing. The pun here is on "job" as in a criminal act (e.g., a robbery). Thus, "abetting" provides "assistance" in carrying out such a "job."
44To be, to BrutusESSE????✨ See Why
The clue "To be, to Brutus" implies a Latin connection, as Brutus is a Roman historical figure. In Latin, "esse" translates to "to be." Thus, the answer is ESSE, reflecting how "to be" would be expressed in Brutus's native language.
45___ HariMATA????✨ See Why
The answer "MATA" refers to Mata Hari, a famous Dutch exotic dancer and courtesan accused of being a spy during World War I. Her name is often used in puzzles, as "Hari" signals her iconic association with intrigue and espionage. The blank prompts this specific name completion.
46Part of A.S.L.: Abbr.AMER????✨ See Why
The clue "Part of A.S.L.: Abbr." refers to the abbreviation for "American Sign Language." "A.S.L." stands for "American Sign Language," making "AMER" (short for "American") a fitting answer. The abbreviation indicator in the clue confirms the answer is abbreviated.
47Group of spies, sayNEST????✨ See Why
The clue "Group of spies, say" hints at wordplay. "Nest" metaphorically refers to a den or hideout, often associated with secretive groups like spies. For example, a "spy nest" evokes an undercover hub or gathering, fitting the playful language of the clue.
This Saturday themeless comes from veteran constructor Byron Walden, and the numbers behind his record are almost as impressive as the puzzle itself: his 109th puzzle overall for the Times and his 70th Saturday. It is a rigorously crafted, brain-burner: only 64 entries and 24 blocks means almost no short filler, so long answers must carry heavy load and crossings get brutal. The grid rewards solvers familiar with fresh, debutish fill—BLOWDRYBAR, GOATBUTTER, LEASALONGA, PRESSSTART—and pop-culture nuggets like THEBARTMAN and MRLONELY. Clues trend lively and specific, pushing you toward trivia (ASHCARTER, RHODES) and tight vocabulary (ARCH, THOS). The payoff is real: once a few long answers fall, the rest unlocks, but expect a slow, satisfying solve. Tough even for a Saturday, but elegant and surprisingly modern in voice.
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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