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Largest college fraternity in the U.S., familiarly - NYT The Crossword Clue

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Across

  • The phrase "Sign off on" means to approve or consent to something, which matches the meaning of "AGREE TO." In this context, "sign off" metaphorically refers to giving approval, aligning with the answer in both logic and intent.

  • The clue "Feel the pain" directly correlates to the verb "SUFFER," which means to experience pain, distress, or hardship. It’s a straightforward definition-based clue with no wordplay, making SUFFER the precise match for the concept of enduring or feeling pain.

  • The "Three B's" of classical music refer to Johann Sebastian Bach, Ludwig van Beethoven, and Johannes Brahms—three highly influential composers. The clue points to one of them, and Bach fits as a correct answer. It's a straightforward reference to this famous musical trio.

  • ROADGANG is the answer because it refers to a group of workers who construct or repair roads, literally "paving the way." The plural clue "They’re" aligns with the collective nature of the ROADGANG, making it a straightforward yet fitting solution.

  • The answer is MINORCA because it is one of Spain's Balearic Islands, located in the Mediterranean. Ferries connect the Balearic Islands, and there are routes between Minorca and Ibiza, making it a direct and fitting solution for "Island with ferries to Ibiza."

  • The clue "Tangent line?" uses wordplay. A tangent is something that deviates or diverges, often leading into an additional or related topic. The word "ALSO" commonly introduces an additional thought or line of discussion, making it a fitting pun-based answer.

  • The clue "One of the better morning beverages?" includes a pun, signaled by the question mark. "Not your average OJ" cleverly plays on the phrase "not your average Joe" and refers to an exceptional orange juice ("OJ"), implying it’s a superior or unique morning beverage.

  • The clue "Zoom background option" refers to a feature in Zoom. A "blur" background is a common option in Zoom settings, used to obscure the surroundings during a video call. The answer, BLUR, fits perfectly as it's a straightforward reference to this functionality.

  • The clue refers to Augusta, Georgia, and its time zone during August. Since August falls under daylight saving time in the U.S., Augusta observes Eastern Daylight Time (EDT). "Hrs." indicates a time reference, and EDT is the correct abbreviation for this time zone in summer.

  • The answer SUZIE refers to the song "Suzie Q," a 1968 hit famously covered by Creedence Clearwater Revival. The clue “___ Q” directly points to the song title, where “Suzie” completes the phrase. This aligns with the clue's reference to the specific hit song.

  • The clue "Styling substance" refers to a product used to style hair. GEL is a common hair product used to shape, hold, or style hair, making it the perfect answer. Its simple, everyday association with hairstyling makes it fit seamlessly with the clue.

  • The clue "C'mon, the car door's open!" suggests a spoken phrase encouraging someone to enter a car. Since it’s conversational and prompts action, the answer is "GET IN," a concise command urging someone to step into the car.

  • The clue "Avoid ___ (GPS option)" refers to a common setting in GPS navigation systems that lets drivers bypass specific routes. GPS devices often allow users to "Avoid TOLLS," helping them steer clear of toll roads. Thus, "TOLLS" correctly completes the phrase and matches the clue's context.

  • The clue "Slice of the economy" refers to a specific subset or division within the economy. The word "sector" is commonly used to describe segments like the tech sector, healthcare sector, or manufacturing sector, making it a perfect fit for this definition of a "slice."

  • The answer is PARASITE because it is the first non-English-language film to win the Academy Award for Best Picture. Directed by Bong Joon-ho, this South Korean film won the award in 2020, making history with its groundbreaking achievement in cinema.

  • The clue "Just one inning left after this?" uses a pun and wordplay. In baseball, if the eighth inning is already underway, only one inning (the ninth) remains after it. The phrase "THE EIGHTH UNDERWAY" cleverly captures this scenario, making it the correct answer.

  • The clue refers to "The Met Gala," an annual fundraiser held at the Metropolitan Museum of Art (The Met) in New York City. The Met is a well-known venue for this prestigious event, making "MET" the fitting answer.

  • The answer is RAGU because it is a classic Italian meat-based sauce. Ragu typically consists of minced meat, tomatoes, and seasonings, and is used in iconic Italian dishes like pasta. The clue specifies "Italian cooking," directly hinting at this traditional sauce. It's a straightforward reference to its culinary origin.

  • The clue "Go-getter sorts" suggests a personality type known for being ambitious, proactive, and determined. The phrase plays on the categorization of personality types, with "Type A" individuals fitting this description. The plural "sorts" leads to the answer TYPEAS, referring to these driven personalities.

  • The clue "Trifling" suggests something insignificant or minimal. "MERE" fits as it means "only" or "barely," implying something of little importance. It's a succinct way to capture the essence of "trifling." No wordplay, foreign language, or additional hints are needed for this straightforward match.

  • The Quai d'Orsay is a famed location in Paris along the River SEINE. The clue refers to what one would commonly see from this riverside spot, making SEINE the correct answer. It connects geographical knowledge with the specific view of the iconic river.

  • SEBASTIAN is the solution because he is the beloved crab in Disney's The Little Mermaid. Known for his strong Jamaican accent, his distinctive voice and musical talent shine in iconic songs like "Under the Sea," making him memorable as Ariel's loyal advisor and friend.

  • The clue describes the steep incline or decline of a mountain road. "Steeply" refers to a sharp gradient, fitting both ways the road can "rise or fall" - either ascending or descending at a sharp angle. It aligns perfectly with the description of mountainous terrain.

  • The clue "Threads, e.g." uses wordplay, as "threads" colloquially refers to clothing or outfits. However, in this context, it also alludes to "Threads," a social media platform, which is a type of APP. Thus, APP is the correct answer.

  • The clue "Query of worry" hints at a question typically asked when concerned about someone's well-being. "Are you ok?" is a common, concise way to express such worry. The phrase fits the conversational tone of the clue and aligns with the meaning perfectly.

  • OHMS is the correct answer because it is the unit of electrical resistance, which is one of the measurements a multimeter can take (along with voltage and current). The multimeter measures resistance in ohms, named after Georg Ohm, who formulated Ohm's Law in electricity.

  • The clue plays on baseball: if there’s just one inning left, the eighth is underway. Say it aloud, though, and it sounds like “the Eighth Wonder,” a phrase used for extraordinary marvels like the Great Wall or Hoover Dam. A neat crossover of sports lingo and cultural hyperbole.

  • The SLOE is a type of berry produced by the blackthorn plant, which is closely related to the hawthorn. Both are part of the Rosaceae family. Sloe berries are small, dark, and often used to make sloe gin. This botanical connection explains the answer.

  • The answer "LEO" refers to the astrological sign represented by a lion. Its time frame falls during summer (July 23 - August 22). The question mark in the clue signals a playful, punny interpretation, linking "lion" (LEO's symbol) and "summer" (its seasonal period).

  • The clue is enclosed in quotes, signaling a spoken phrase. "So here's my question ..." is something someone might say before asking a question. The phrase "I ASK YOU" directly matches the tone and meaning, making it the solution. The pun fits the conversational context perfectly.

  • The clue "Humorous ending with hater?" uses wordplay. Adding the suffix "ADE" to "hater" forms "haterade," which humorously refers to excessive criticism or negativity, derived from "Gatorade." The pun works on the playful combination to create a recognizable and humorous term.

  • The clue "Sephora competitor" refers to another major beauty retailer. ULTA Beauty is a direct competitor of Sephora, both being well-known chains offering cosmetics, skincare, and haircare products. The concise answer "ULTA" fits perfectly as it identifies this prominent rival in the beauty industry.

  • A “two-pound tomahawk steak” is certainly a jumbo entrée. Phonetically, though, the phrase becomes Jumbotron, the massive arena screen. The humor comes from the scale connection—both oversized portions and oversized displays—and the goofy leap from steakhouse to sports arena.

  • The answer is GILL because gills are the respiratory organs used by fish and other aquatic creatures to extract oxygen from water, enabling them to "breathe" underwater. The clue uses a straightforward description of this function, making GILL the fitting solution.

  • The clue "Home on the internet, perhaps?" hints at a website's central or "home" location. It also indicates wordplay, suggesting a metaphorical home. "MAINPAGE" is often used to describe the homepage of a website, making it the perfect fit for this clue.

  • The clue "Prescriptions, for short" references the abbreviated form "Rxs," where "Rx" is commonly used as shorthand for a medical prescription. Adding an "s" makes it plural, aligning with the clue's plural "Prescriptions." This abbreviation originates from the Latin word "recipe," meaning "to take."

  • The clue "Arouses" directly relates to stirring up feelings or emotions, which is the definition of "excites." Both words are synonyms, often used to describe causing enthusiasm, stimulation, or strong emotional responses. There’s no wordplay here—it’s a straightforward definition match.

  • The clue "Slimy scheme for profit?" suggests a shady, unethical way of making money. The phrase "money grab" means aggressively or unscrupulously taking financial advantage, aligning perfectly with the clue's tone and wordplay.

  • The answer "CLAIM" fits as it refers to an insurance or benefits claim, a "listing" of details submitted to receive benefits. This often includes an explanation of benefits—a document outlining what is covered or reimbursed, directly tying the clue to the answer.

  • The answer "NEWS" fits the clue "Anchors provide this" because news anchors are broadcasters who deliver or "provide" news stories to the public on television, radio, or online platforms. The clue directly refers to their primary role in presenting current events and updates.

  • The answer "LOAFER" fits the clue "Casual shoe" because loafers are slip-on shoes known for their relaxed, easy-to-wear style, commonly associated with casual or semi-casual attire. The term directly matches the description of a comfortable, leisurely shoe.

  • The clue "New Jersey?" with a question mark signals wordplay. Here, "Jersey" refers to a type of cow. A "new Jersey" would be a young cow, which is a CALF. The pun connects the state name to the animal, creating a playful twist.

  • UVA is the abbreviation for the University of Virginia, which is a member of the Atlantic Coast Conference (A.C.C.), a prominent collegiate athletic conference in the U.S. The clue directly refers to a school within this conference, making UVA the correct answer.

  • TThe clue frames hesitation about bidding on eBay. Written as TOEBAYORNOTTOEBAY, it sounds like Shakespeare’s “to be or not to be.” The pun works beautifully because it merges the world’s most famous soliloquy with the modern anxiety of online shopping wars.

  • The answer "PILSENER" refers to Pilsner, a pale lager style of beer originating in Plzeň (Pilsen), Czech Republic. The term derives from the city where it was first brewed in 1842, making it a quintessential Czech brew. The spelling variation "PILSENER" is also widely used.

  • The answer "SCOOCH" fits the clue "Move (over)" because "scooch" is an informal term meaning to shift or slide a small distance, often to make room for someone or something. The phrasing "(over)" specifically hints at a slight adjustment, aligning perfectly with the word's meaning.

  • The answer is STIPE because Michael Stipe is the lead singer and lyricist of the band R.E.M. The clue directly refers to him by name and his association with the band. This type of clue is a straightforward reference to a well-known individual.

  • The clue "The government, at times" plays on the idea that one of the government's key roles is to impose taxes. A "TAXER" is someone or something that taxes, metaphorically representing the government in this function. The phrasing "at times" reflects this specific role, rather than all government actions.

  • The clue "What Pomeranians do" refers to the behavior of Pomeranians, a small dog breed known for their frequent and high-pitched barking. "YAP" is an onomatopoeic word that imitates the sound of a small dog barking, making it the perfect fitting answer to the clue.

  • The clue refers to the unstressed "uh" sound (ə) in the middle of the word "silence." This is called a "schwa," the most common vowel sound in English. The pun on "sound" and the middle position point directly to this linguistic term.

  • The clue "___ but a scratch" is a well-known line from the comedic film Monty Python and the Holy Grail. The phrase is spoken as "Tis but a scratch," where "Tis" is an archaic contraction of "it is," fitting the blank in the quote perfectly.

  • In Magic: The Gathering, an "Ogre" is a common creature type featured in the game’s lore and card sets. Ogres are often depicted as brutish, strong, and usually aligned with red or black mana, fitting the fantasy theme of the game, making OGRE the accurate solution.

  • Clued as “Give an extra perk to a cigarette smoker?,” the surface answer makes sense, but said aloud, TOSSINTHEASHTRAY becomes “toss in the trash.” It’s a classic Pig Latin flip—an everyday phrase hidden in a slightly twisted but logical setting.

  • The answer "WRAP" works because in film production, the term “That’s a wrap!” is commonly used to signal the end of filming for a scene or entire project. It directly ties to the clue "Finish filming," making it an apt and accurate solution.

  • CRISPUS Attucks was an African American man who became one of the first casualties of the American Revolution, killed during the Boston Massacre in 1770. His death made him a martyr and a powerful symbol for abolition and civil rights movements, making CRISPUS the correct answer.

  • The answer "TREASURE" fits the clue "Cherish" because to cherish something means to hold it dear or value it highly. Similarly, "treasure" implies something of great worth or importance, often deeply valued or cherished. Both terms convey profound appreciation or love.

  • The clue "No side" plays on wordplay. In decision-making or voting, "no" represents the oppositional side. The term "NAYS" specifically refers to the votes against a proposal or motion, aligning with the "no" side in a debate or vote. Hence, the answer is NAYS.

  • The answer "MELTON" is clever wordplay. While cheese "melts on" a hot burger, "Melton" also refers to a type of thick woolen fabric—a punny twist.

  • The clue refers to a keyboard layout. On a standard QWERTY keyboard, the "Q" key is located on the top left letter row, and the TAB keys (or TAB key) are positioned directly to the left of it. Thus, the answer "TABKEYS" fits perfectly.

Down

  • The answer is ARNETT because Will Arnett is the actor who provides the voice for the title character, BoJack Horseman, in the popular animated Netflix series BoJack Horseman. The clue directly references his role in the show.

  • The answer "GOODOH" represents a British expression of approval or praise. The combination of "Good" and the exclamation "Oh!" conveys excitement or satisfaction, often used informally in the UK. This aligns with the clue’s context, as it specifically refers to a British phrasing for showing approval.

  • The solution "RATTLER" refers to a rattlesnake, a type of snake known for its characteristic rattle sound made to warn predators. The clue "Scary snake" is straightforward, as rattlesnakes are venomous and can invoke fear, making the answer fitting.

  • The answer "EDY" refers to Joseph Edy, the co-founder of Dreyer’s (Edy’s) Ice Cream. Joseph Edy, along with William Dreyer, is credited with creating rocky road ice cream in 1929. The brand Edy’s uses his name, making it a fitting solution to the clue.

  • The clue "Obstruction to teamwork, maybe" suggests something that could hinder collaboration or unity in a group. EGO fits here as it refers to an inflated sense of self-importance, which can create conflicts, prevent cooperation, or prioritize individual needs over team goals—a clear obstacle to teamwork.

  • The answer "TAUS" refers to the Greek letter tau (Τ/τ), which is shaped like a T and resembles a cross in appearance. In the context of the clue "Greek crosses," it cleverly points to this Greek letter, often associated with cross-like shapes in symbolism or geometry.

  • The term "ONRUSH" directly describes a sudden, forceful movement or surge, aligning perfectly with the clue "Sudden surge." It conveys the idea of something happening quickly and powerfully, such as a rush of water, people, or emotions, making it the ideal match for this clue.

  • The "Round Table" clue refers to the legendary King Arthur's Round Table, where knights were titled "Sir." "Title" in the clue, therefore, hints at the honorary prefix given to knights, making SIR the fitting answer.

  • The clue "___ cerveza, por favor" is in Spanish, so the answer must also be in Spanish. "Cerveza" means beer, and "una" is the feminine form of "a" or "one," matching the feminine noun "cerveza." Translated, it means "One beer, please." Hence, the answer is UNA.

  • Phileas Fogg is the protagonist in Jules Verne's classic novel "Around the World in Eighty Days". The clue directly references him by name, making FOGG the correct answer.

  • The clue refers to social media's ability to create buzz and promote brands without direct costs. Informally, this is often called "free PR" (public relations), as businesses gain exposure and visibility through shares, likes, and user interactions—essentially free marketing. Hence, the answer is FREEPR.

  • The clue "Bit of green legislation" refers to laws or policies addressing environmental concerns ("green"). "Eco" relates to ecology or the environment, and "law" is legislation. Together, ECOLAW reflects environmental laws, making it a concise answer fitting the context.

  • The clue specifies “Hindi,” signaling the answer will be a word from that language. In Hindi, "RAJ" translates directly to "reign" or "rule." It’s also commonly associated with governance or dominion, making RAJ the correct and fitting answer.

  • The clue "Sweethearts" refers to endearing terms for loved ones. "Babes" is a common affectionate term for significant others, aligning perfectly with the plural form of "Sweethearts." It's a straightforward synonym, making "BABES" the fitting solution.

  • The clue asks for “one of the best coffee beverages ever.” A café au lait is a classic, so ALLTIME AULAIT makes sense literally. But phonetically it sounds like all-time low. A perfect pun that marries coffeehouse culture with a familiar phrase of ultimate disappointment.

  • The clue "Top execs, collectively" refers to the group of highest-ranking executives in a company, commonly known as the "C-Suite." The "C" stands for chief, as in CEO (Chief Executive Officer) or CFO (Chief Financial Officer). Collectively, they are called the C-Suite, making CSUITE the answer.

  • The Charlotte N.B.A. team is named the Charlotte Hornets. Therefore, a "Charlotte N.B.A. player" would be a HORNET, referring to someone playing for this team. This clue directly references the team's name to derive the answer.

  • The clue refers to the oldest continuously published newspaper in Montreal, which is "The Gazette." Established in 1778, "The Gazette" has been a prominent newspaper in the city, making GAZETTE the fitting answer. The definite article "The" in the clue aligns perfectly with the publication's name.

  • The clue "Get-together" directly refers to a gathering or meeting, which is synonymous with "meet-up." "MEETUP" specifically describes an informal group gathering, fitting the straightforward definition of the clue. The lack of wordplay or modifiers indicates the answer is literal.

  • The answer is VICHY because it refers to Vichyssoise, a creamy, cold potato-leek soup that originated in France and is named after the French city of Vichy. The clue points directly to this culinary connection, as the soup's name is derived from the city.

  • The clue specifies "Merriment, in one spelling," indicating there are alternate spellings for this term. "Gayety" is an older or less common spelling of "gaiety," which means cheerfulness or merriment. This fits the definition directly, aligning with the clue's focus on a specific form of the word.

  • The clue "Doesn't own, say" suggests a situation where someone uses or occupies something without owning it. LEASES fits because leasing involves renting property or items, meaning temporary use without ownership. The "say" hints at it being an example of not owning.

  • The answer "SIGEP" refers to Sigma Phi Epsilon, one of the largest fraternities in the U.S. "Familiarly" signals the use of its common nickname. Known for its size and nationwide presence, SIGEP fits the clue as the answer for the largest college fraternity, abbreviated informally.

  • The solution is ONE because U.S. area codes cannot start with the digit "1." By regulation, area codes must begin with digits 2-9, as "1" is reserved for signaling purposes in the telephone system (e.g., dialing long-distance). This makes "1" an invalid starting digit for area codes.

  • The clue "Nutrition figs." refers to nutritional figures, and RDAs stands for "Recommended Dietary Allowances." These are guidelines for the daily intake of essential nutrients. The abbreviated format of the answer matches the abbreviation in the clue, making RDAs the correct solution.

  • The solution is RAMSEY because Ramsey County is a real county in Minnesota, and its county seat is St. Paul, which is also the state capital. This clue straightforwardly names a geographic fact, leading to the correct answer, Ramsey.

  • The answer "GUILE" fits the clue "Artfulness" because "guile" refers to cleverness, cunning, or deceptive skill—qualities linked to being artful or crafty in achieving goals. It captures the idea of strategic ingenuity, aligning directly with the clue's meaning.

  • The suffix "ESE" creates adjectives or nouns referring to origin, language, or style. Adding "ESE" to "journal" forms "journalese," which describes a particular writing style typical of journalistic language, often seen as exaggerated or clichéd. Hence, "ESE" is the appropriate suffix here.

  • The clue "Some natural borders en México" includes "en," indicating the answer is in Spanish. Rivers (ríos in Spanish) often form natural borders, aligning with the clue. In Mexico, several rivers, like Río Grande, serve as such borders, making RIOS the correct answer.

  • NYX is the Greek goddess of the night in mythology. Known for her powerful, shadowy presence, she represents the night itself. The clue directly refers to this deity, and her name fits the three-letter requirement of the puzzle. The simplicity aligns with common crossword structure.

  • The answer is BABUR because he was the founder of the Mughal Empire in India in 1526. A descendant of Timur and Genghis Khan, Babur established his rule after winning the Battle of Panipat, laying the foundation for one of South Asia's most powerful empires.

  • The solution is ARA because it is the name of a constellation in the southern sky, representing an altar. Additionally, "palindromic" in the clue indicates the answer reads the same forward and backward—ARA is a palindrome, satisfying both the constellation and wordplay aspects of the clue.

  • The clue "Noggin" is a casual term for "head." NOODLE is a slang term that also means "head" or "brain," aligning with the clue. This simple synonym highlights wordplay and informal language commonly used in crossword puzzles.

  • The clue specifies "Latin," so the answer will be a Latin word. "Solum" in Latin translates to "only" or "just," making it the correct solution. Additionally, solum can also mean ground or soil in other contexts, but here it aligns with the intended meaning of "only."

  • The clue "What fugitives are on" with a question mark signals wordplay. "On the lam" is a common phrase used to describe someone fleeing or escaping, as fugitives do. Rearranged, it forms THELAM, capturing the essence of the phrase in a playful manner.

  • An athlete’s MRI or X-ray might confirm the worst injury. But said aloud, EMOTIONALXRAY = “emotional wreck.” It’s clever because it takes something clinical and diagnostic, then pivots to an idiomatic description of personal collapse, linking sports medicine with human vulnerability.

  • The answer "ARAB" applies because Bahrain is an Arab nation located in the Persian Gulf, and the majority of its population identifies as ethnically Arab. The clue, "Many a Bahraini," indicates a general characteristic, making "ARAB" the fitting description.

  • The answer PASO completes the Tex-Mex brand name "Old El Paso," which is a well-known company specializing in Mexican food products like taco shells, seasonings, and sauces. "Paso" translates to "step" in Spanish, but here it references the brand, not its literal meaning.

  • The World Series of Poker (WSOP) is a globally renowned annual poker tournament that began in 1970. Its title refers to poker as the “game,” aligning with the clue. This iconic event gathers top players, making "POKER" the fitting answer.

  • The word "keels" relates to the phrase "keels over," which means to collapse or fall over, often suddenly or dramatically. This aligns perfectly with the clue "Collapses, with 'over'," as it's a direct expression of what happens when someone or something topples or faints.

  • The answer "TIMER" fits because it is a common function found within a smartphone’s clock app. A timer measures a set duration of time and is used frequently for tasks such as cooking, workouts, or reminders, making it a clear match for "Smartphone clock function."

  • The answer is LYNX because a bobcat (Lynx rufus) belongs to the Lynx genus. While "bobcat" is its common name, it is technically a species of lynx, making the statement accurate from a scientific classification perspective.

  • DOTS could be the answer because the clue might involve wordplay or imagery. Commonly, “dots” are used in Morse code, connect-the-dots puzzles, or patterns. If the clue is playful or abstract, it may be hinting at small, discrete points, visually or conceptually. Specific context clarifies further!

  • The answer is ANNE because Anne Bancroft was a renowned actress, celebrated for roles in films like The Graduate. This clue directly refers to her as the solution with no wordplay or misdirection involved. The clue is straightforward, pointing to her first name.

  • The answer "JAYSON" refers to Jayson Tatum, a professional basketball player and multiple-time NBA All-Star. Tatum is a prominent figure in the league, playing for the Boston Celtics and known for his scoring ability and versatility on the court.

  • The clue "Boot out of Australia?" contains a pun. UGG is a popular brand of sheepskin boots originating from Australia. The wordplay hinges on interpreting "Boot" both as footwear and an expulsion phrase, linking it cleverly to Australia's iconic UGG boots.

  • The answer is EEL because this creature's larvae, called "leptocephali," are distinctively flat and transparent. Eels undergo a unique life cycle that includes this juvenile stage, which is a well-known characteristic of their biology. This clue directly references this defining trait of eels.

  • The clue "___ change" asks for a word that fits the blank contextually. The answer, EXACT, pairs with "change" to describe an amount of money that is precise or correct, such as providing "exact change" when making a payment. It's a common phrase in daily usage.

  • The answer "GIMLET" fits because a Gimlet is a classic cocktail traditionally made with gin or vodka and lime juice, aligning perfectly with the clue "Vodka-and-lime cocktail." The clue directly describes the drink without wordplay, leading to this straightforward solution.

  • The answer is PEWTER because it is a malleable metal alloy historically used for dishware and household items. Before porcelain became popular, pewter was a common material as it was durable, easy to mold, and affordable, making it practical for plates, cups, and utensils.

  • The clue "Ta-tas" uses wordplay as it mimics a casual way to say goodbye. "CIAOS" is the plural of "ciao," an informal Italian word meaning both "hello" and "goodbye." The plural here reflects multiple farewells, matching the playful tone of the clue.

  • The answer "ALA" comes from the phrase "à la," which is a French term meaning "in the style of" or "in the manner of." It’s commonly used in English to indicate something done in the style or fashion of someone or something else.

  • The clue "School bathroom sign" directly refers to the labels typically seen outside school restrooms. One common designation is "BOYS," indicating that the bathroom is for male students. The clue is straightforward, with no wordplay or puns involved, making BOYS the logical solution.

  • The clue "Spin a yarn, perhaps?" features a pun. While "spin a yarn" can mean telling a tale, it also hints at creating something from yarn. CROCHET is a textile art using yarn to craft fabric through hooked stitches, fitting the wordplay. "Perhaps" emphasizes the double meaning.

  • The solution "AOC" refers to Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a prominent progressive member of the U.S. Congress. The clue specifies “inits.” for initials, and AOC is her widely-recognized abbreviation. Known for her progressive policies, she serves as a U.S. Representative, aligning perfectly with the clue’s description.

  • The clue "Puts icing on" directly refers to the action of applying frosting (icing) to baked goods, such as cakes. "FROSTS" is the correct verb form meaning to cover or decorate with icing, matching the clue's wording perfectly.

  • The answer is ENOCH because, in the Bible, Enoch is named as the father of Methuselah in the Book of Genesis (Genesis 5:21-27). Methuselah is known as the oldest person in biblical records, and Enoch is his direct parent according to the genealogies.

  • The answer "FBITRUE" refers to the Paramount+ docuseries "FBI: True," which focuses on real-life crime stories investigated by the FBI. The title combines "FBI," the investigative agency, with "True," signifying true stories, perfectly aligning with the clue's description of real-life crime tales.

  • The clue "Like Manhattan in the 80s and 90s?" uses wordplay with the question mark. In this period, "Uptown" Manhattan was made famous by pop culture, including music like Billy Joel's "Uptown Girl." The answer humorously plays on literal "Uptown" being popular during those decades.

  • The clue "Cialis alternative" refers to medications used to treat erectile dysfunction. Viagra, like Cialis, is a well-known drug for this purpose. As both serve similar functions, "alternative" points to Viagra as a comparable option to Cialis, making it the correct answer.

  • The answer "EEYORE" refers to the donkey character from A.A. Milne’s Winnie-the-Pooh series. Eeyore is known for his long ears, befitting “long-eared,” and he is a close friend (or “pal”) of Winnie-the-Pooh, matching the clue's description.

  • The answer is BRASIL because it refers to the country's name in Portuguese, its official language. Americans typically spell it as Brazil with a "z," whereas in Portuguese, it is spelled Brasil with an "s." The clue plays on this difference in spelling conventions.

  • The clue "Stymie" means to block or hinder progress, which aligns exactly with the definition of the word "THWART." "THWART" means to oppose successfully or prevent something from happening, making it the ideal solution.

  • The clue "Abode that's abuzz" uses wordplay. "Abuzz" suggests a place filled with buzzing activity, which directly refers to bees. An "abode" for bees is an apiary, where bees are kept and thrive, making this the perfect answer.

  • The clue "Ah, that's right!" mimics an expression of sudden realization or agreement, often spoken affirmatively. "YESYES" captures this response perfectly as a repeated, enthusiastic confirmation, fitting the tone of the clue. The quotation marks signal spoken phrasing, making this conversational answer appropriate.

  • The answer "SEEPS" fits the clue "Trickles" because "seeps" means to flow or leak gradually, often in small amounts, which closely matches the meaning of "trickles." Both describe a slow, gentle movement of liquid, making "SEEPS" the perfect solution for this clue.

  • The clue "Vowelless attention-getter" describes a word that grabs attention and has no vowels. "PSST" fits perfectly as it mimics a whispered sound used to discreetly get someone's attention, and it contains no vowels, aligning with the clue's description.

  • The answer "ASEA" fits because it literally means "at sea," which conveys the idea of being on the ocean and traveling on waves. The clue cleverly suggests this imagery of movement on water, aligning perfectly with the term ASEA.

  • The answer "TCM" stands for Turner Classic Movies, a broadcast channel known for showcasing vintage and classic films from Hollywood's golden era. It is widely associated with old, iconic movies, making it the perfect fit for the clue "Vintage film channel."

  • IPO stands for Initial Public Offering, a significant milestone for a start-up when it offers shares to the public for the first time. This event symbolizes growth, credibility, and access to capital. The clue specifies "for short," indicating the abbreviation IPO fits perfectly.

  • The solution "NUN" fits because a nun is often addressed as "Sister" within religious contexts, specifically in Christianity, where nuns dedicate their lives to service and faith. The clue's phrasing directly hints at this title, linking "Sister" to the figure of a nun.

  • The answer "HAB" is short for "prehab," a preparatory rehabilitation program designed to improve physical fitness before surgery. "Pre-" indicates preparation, and "hab" derives from "rehabilitation," making it an exercise regimen carried out in advance of surgical intervention.

  • The clue "Vowelless rebuke" hints at a short, nonverbal sound used to express disapproval or reprimand, and "vowelless" suggests a word lacking vowels. TSK fits perfectly as it’s a common sound for mild rebuke and contains no vowels.

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Solving today’s NYT The Crossword Puzzle and stuck on the 5-letter answer to the Largest college fraternity in the U.S., familiarly clue? Don’t worry—Lady Puzzle Pro is here to help! Whether you need the answer right away, want to reveal it letter by letter, or just can’t figure out a tricky clue, we’ve got you. You can even solve the whole Crossword puzzle of the day right here!

Largest college fraternity in the U.S., familiarly Answer Explained

The answer is SIGEP.

“Familiarly” hints at a nickname or contraction. Largest by membership points me to Sigma Phi Epsilon, commonly called SigEp. Other big fraternities—TKE, SAE, Sigma Chi—are contenders, but “largest” frequently lands on SigEp in recent stats. The five-letter pattern S-I-G-E-P matches the house’s casual name used on campuses. The clue’s phrasing “in the U.S.” narrows to American Greek life, and “college fraternity” clarifies we’re not talking honor societies. Crosses lock in the uncommon G-E-P sequence. If you considered “Sigma,” that’s too generic; “SigEp” is the precise familiar form. Clean, factual clue; brand-like nickname; crossword-friendly five.

Now that you've cracked the 31D Largest college fraternity in the U.S., familiarly clue, you're one step closer to completing today’s Mini Puzzle! If you're still stuck on other clues, don't worry—we've got you covered. Explore more NYT Crossword answers right here, or check out our tools for solving the NYT The Mini, Connections, or Strands.

Today’s NYT The Crossword Highlights

Sam Ezersky (Spelling Bee editor, and today's NYT The Mini author) serves a playful Sunday with “Ixnay That!” a Pig Latin showcase. Eight themers read like straight answers until you “decode” them back to familiar phrases: NOTYOURAVERAGEOJ → “not your average Joe,” THEEIGHTHUNDERWAY → “the Eighth Wonder,” EXTRAOLDBAY → “extra bold,” TOEBAYORNOTTOEBAY → “to be or not to be,” TOSSINTHEASHTRAY → “toss in the trash,” ALLTIMEAULAIT → “all-time low,” JUMBOENTREE → “Jumbotron,” EMOTIONALXRAY → “emotional wreck.” The aha lands big, and the grid supports it with smooth, modern fill (PARASITE, MONEYGRAB, MAINPAGE). Cluing is lively but fair. A witty, ear-forward theme executed with sparkle.

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:

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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.

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NYT Crossword Help

The New York Times provides various resources to aid in solving puzzles and improving solving skills.

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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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