An ADAPTOR is essential for overseas travel because different countries use various plug types for electrical outlets. This device allows travelers to connect their electronic devices to foreign sockets, serving as a practical accessory for ensuring compatibility and charging needs during international trips.
8Camila with the hit 2022 album "Familia"CABELLO???????✨ See Why
The answer is CABELLO because Camila Cabello is a Cuban-American singer who released the hit 2022 album Familia. The clue directly references her first name and an album she is famously associated with, making "Cabello" the fitting solution.
15Disassemble in order to understandREVERSEENGINEER???????????????✨ See Why
The answer "REVERSEENGINEER" fits because it describes the process of taking something apart (disassembling it) to study its components and functionality in order to understand or replicate it. The clue perfectly aligns with this technical and analytical method, commonly applied in engineering and technology fields.
17Ideal resolutionFAIRYTALEENDING???????????????✨ See Why
"Fairy tale endings" are synonymous with ideal or perfect resolutions, often involving happiness or positive outcomes, like "happily ever after." The clue uses wordplay to evoke this familiar narrative trope, making FAIRYTALEENDING the fitting answer for an "Ideal resolution."
18Bit of a blindSLAT????✨ See Why
The clue "Bit of a blind" refers to a single component of a window blind. Blinds are often made up of horizontal or vertical strips called slats that can be tilted to control light and privacy. Hence, SLAT is the correct answer.
19Button added to iPhone messages in 2022EDIT????✨ See Why
The answer "EDIT" refers to the feature Apple introduced in iOS 16 (2022), allowing users to edit sent messages in iPhone's Messages app. The button enables users to correct mistakes or modify their texts within a short window after sending, fitting the clue perfectly.
20Like challenging kite-flying weatherGUSTY?????✨ See Why
The answer "GUSTY" fits because challenging kite-flying weather involves sudden, strong bursts of wind, known as gusts. "GUSTY" describes such conditions perfectly, making it a precise adjective for weather that makes controlling a kite difficult. The clue’s context directly aligns with this definition.
21Becky on "Full House" and Esther on "Sanford and Son"AUNTS?????✨ See Why
The answer is AUNTS because both Becky on "Full House" and Esther on "Sanford and Son" are characters who are aunts within their respective shows. Becky is Aunt Becky to the Tanner children, while Esther is referred to as Aunt Esther by her nephew Lamont on "Sanford and Son."
23A little "Help here!"?SOS???✨ See Why
The answer is SOS because it’s a universally recognized distress signal meaning "help." The clue ends in a question mark, signaling wordplay. "A little 'Help here!'" humorously hints at this concise cry for assistance, fitting the description of "a little" help perfectly.
24Access, in a wayLOGINTO???????✨ See Why
The answer "LOGINTO" fits the clue "Access, in a way" because it describes the act of gaining access to an account, platform, or system by entering credentials (like a username and password). It's a common term for accessing digital or online resources.
27Regards with astonishmentGAPESAT???????✨ See Why
The answer GAPESAT fits because "regards with astonishment" describes an action of staring with an open mouth in awe or shock, which is the definition of "gape." When paired with "at," it forms "gapes at," meaning to look at something in astonishment, aligning perfectly with the clue's intent.
31___ Gorman, "The Hill We Climb" poetAMANDA??????✨ See Why
The answer is AMANDA because Amanda Gorman is the poet who authored "The Hill We Climb," famously recited during the 2021 U.S. Presidential Inauguration. The blank in the clue indicates her first name, completing the reference to this prominent poet.
32Stone to cast?EMMA????✨ See Why
The clue "Stone to cast?" uses wordplay with "Stone" referring to actress Emma Stone. The phrase "to cast" hints at her acting career since actors are part of a cast. Thus, the solution is EMMA, cleverly pointing to the famous actress.
33ForPRO???✨ See Why
The clue "For" suggests support or endorsement. The answer "PRO" fits because "pro" is commonly used to indicate being in favor of or supporting something, aligning with the meaning of "for" in this context. It's a straightforward synonym.
34Reveal allRAISETHECURTAIN???????????????✨ See Why
The clue "Reveal all" suggests something dramatic or theatrical. "Raise the curtain" is a phrase used in theater to indicate the start of a performance, symbolizing revealing everything to the audience. It fits perfectly as the solution because it conveys the act of uncovering or revealing all.
37One might walk right into a trapANT???✨ See Why
The clue "One might walk right into a trap?" is a playful reference. Ants are creatures that commonly fall into traps, like ant traps used to control infestations. The wordplay lies in imagining the ant physically walking into a literal "trap."
38Baroque stringed instrumentVIOL????✨ See Why
The VIOL is a Baroque-era stringed instrument, part of the viol family, which includes the viola da gamba. Popular in the 16th-18th centuries, it has frets and is played with a bow. Its historical significance ties it directly to Baroque music, making VIOL the perfect fit for the clue.
39Plaza resident of fictionELOISE??????✨ See Why
The answer "ELOISE" refers to the beloved fictional character from the children’s book series by Kay Thompson. Eloise is a young, precocious girl who famously resides in The Plaza Hotel in New York City, making her a "Plaza resident of fiction."
40Apollo 13, for oneMISSION???????✨ See Why
Apollo 13 was a significant space mission launched by NASA in 1970. The term "mission" refers to an organized operation, often with a specific goal, like space exploration. As the clue defines Apollo 13, the answer "MISSION" fits perfectly.
42Made funny faces, sayCLOWNED???????✨ See Why
The answer "CLOWNED" fits because "made funny faces" describes playful or exaggerated expressions, which clowns are known for. The word "say" in the clue signals a synonym or example, and "clowned" works as a verb meaning to act funny or silly, including making amusing faces.
43Solo in spaceHAN???✨ See Why
The clue "Solo in space" refers to the iconic Star Wars character Han Solo, a pilot who operates in outer space. The word "Solo" cleverly hints at both his surname and his role as a spacefaring individual, making "HAN" the fitting answer.
44Inlay material on some guitarsNACRE?????✨ See Why
The answer is NACRE, also known as mother-of-pearl. It’s a shiny, iridescent material found inside mollusk shells, commonly used as decorative inlays on guitar fretboards or headstocks due to its aesthetic appeal and durability.
45AttacksHASAT?????✨ See Why
The clue "Attacks" leads to the answer HASAT because "has at" is a phrase meaning to go after, criticize, or attack something verbally or physically. This fits the synonym-based nature of the clue, making it a straightforward match.
48Alternative to 53-AcrossROTH????✨ See Why
The clue “Alternative to 53-Across” is a direct contrast: instead of the tax-deferred Traditional IRA, you might choose a ROTH IRA, where contributions are taxed upfront but withdrawals in retirement are tax-free.
49BlowoutROMP????✨ See Why
The clue "Blowout" is a double-meaning hint. A "blowout" can refer to an easy, decisive victory, which aligns with "ROMP," meaning an effortless win. Additionally, "ROMP" conveys fun or carefree activity, fitting the spirit of a lopsided or exuberant event.
53Some nest eggsTRADITIONALIRAS???????????????✨ See Why
The clue "Some nest eggs" refers to retirement savings, metaphorically described as "nest eggs." Traditional IRAs (Individual Retirement Accounts) are common retirement savings accounts. The word "some" indicates a subset, fitting the specific type of retirement accounts—TRADITIONAL IRAS.
56Be ruthlessTAKENOPRISONERS???????????????✨ See Why
The phrase "TAKE NO PRISONERS" describes an approach or attitude that is extremely ruthless, showing no mercy. It metaphorically means to act without restraint or consideration for others, aligning perfectly with the clue "Be ruthless."
57Brothers-to-bePLEDGES???????✨ See Why
The clue “Brothers-to-be” hints at individuals who are in the process of becoming "brothers" in a fraternity. The answer, PLEDGES, refers to students who have pledged to join a fraternity but have not yet become full members. This matches the context of "brothers-to-be."
58Beloved kid on one's farm, maybePETGOAT???????✨ See Why
The clue plays on the word "kid," which can mean a young goat. On a farm, a "beloved kid" could be a pet goat. 'Maybe' signals wordplay, suggesting the playful double meaning of "kid" as both a baby goat and something adored on a farm.
Down
1YapsARFS????✨ See Why
The clue "Yaps" refers to the sound small dogs make when barking. "Arfs" mimics the onomatopoeic sound of a dog's bark, fitting the plural form indicated by "Yaps." The playful, nonverbal nature of the clue ties directly to the sound-based answer ARFS.
2"You're on!"DEAL????✨ See Why
The clue "You're on!" is in quotes, signaling spoken language. "DEAL" fits as it's a common way of agreeing to something or accepting a proposal, akin to saying "It's a deal!" or "I agree." It reflects the moment of mutual confirmation.
3Brand of athletic shoesAVIA????✨ See Why
The answer is AVIA because it is a well-known brand of athletic footwear. Founded in 1979, AVIA specializes in performance shoes for running, walking, and training, making it a perfect fit for the clue "Brand of athletic shoes."
4Relates (to)PERTAINS????????✨ See Why
The word "pertains" is synonymous with "relates (to)" as both refer to having a connection or relevance to a subject or matter. The clue's straightforward nature suggests a direct synonym, and "pertains" fits perfectly in both meaning and grammatical structure.
5Cause headaches forTRY???✨ See Why
The clue "Cause headaches for" suggests a straightforward but figurative answer. "TRY" fits because something challenging or frustrating can “try” one's patience or endurance, metaphorically causing a headache. This usage aligns with the idea of being tested or troubled by a situation.
6Peacock's displayOSTENTATION???????????✨ See Why
The clue "Peacock's display" refers metaphorically to a showy, extravagant demonstration, akin to how a peacock displays its feathers to impress. The word "ostentation" means excessive showiness or a flashy display, aligning perfectly with the idea of a peacock's flaunting nature.
7Entertain at bedtime, maybeREADTO??????✨ See Why
The clue "Entertain at bedtime, maybe" suggests a common activity associated with bedtime, particularly for children. "Read to" refers to reading a story aloud, a frequent and entertaining bedtime ritual. The "maybe" implies this is one of several possibilities, fitting perfectly with the clue’s intent.
8Website whose contributors might write about miceCNET????✨ See Why
CNET is a tech-focused website, and "mice" here is a pun referring to computer mice, not rodents. Contributors to CNET write about technology, including peripherals like computer mice, making it the correct answer for this clue with its wordplay.
9Dating app filterAGE???✨ See Why
In dating apps, users often filter potential matches based on specific criteria, such as AGE. This allows them to sort profiles by a preferred age range, making "AGE" a fitting and straightforward answer to the clue "Dating app filter."
10Where many gather to form a line? BINGOPARLOR???????????✨ See Why
The clue plays on the double meaning of “form a line.” In a BINGO PARLOR, participants gather to play bingo and form lines on their bingo cards to win. The question mark signals the pun, referencing both lining up numbers and the gathering place.
11Ultimate functionENDUSE??????✨ See Why
The clue "Ultimate function" refers to the final or ultimate purpose of something. "END USE" perfectly fits, as it describes the final application or function of a product or service. "End" implies "ultimate," and "use" implies "function," making ENDUSE the ideal answer.
12Attire for hula dancersLEIS????✨ See Why
The answer "LEIS" fits because leis, the floral garlands typically worn around the neck, are traditional Hawaiian accessories. Hula dancers often wear leis as part of their attire, representing Hawaiian culture and adding to the aesthetic and ceremonial aspects of hula performances.
13Time of abstinenceLENT????✨ See Why
The answer is LENT because Lent is a period in the Christian calendar, lasting 40 days, marked by fasting, prayer, and abstinence as a form of spiritual preparation leading up to Easter. It is commonly associated with giving up luxuries or indulgences, aligning directly with "Time of abstinence."
14Not-so-conservative party?ORGY????✨ See Why
The clue "Not-so-conservative party?" uses a pun. "Not-so-conservative" implies something wild or uninhibited, and "party" hints at a social gathering. An ORGY is an extreme, uninhibited gathering, fitting the description of a party far from conservative. The question mark signals this playful wordplay.
16Clinton and Bush, for twoELIS????✨ See Why
The answer is ELIS because both Bill Clinton and George W. Bush attended Yale University, whose students and alumni are referred to as "Elis" — a nickname derived from Elihu Yale, the university's namesake. This clue refers to their shared educational background.
22SteadfastUNDEVIATING???????????✨ See Why
The word "steadfast" means firm, unwavering, or resolute. "Undeviating" precisely captures this idea, as it describes something that doesn't stray or deviate from a set course, reflecting constancy and an unchangeable nature—synonymous with being steadfast. This makes it a perfect match for the clue.
23Founding father who is the only Supreme Court justice to have ever been impeachedSAMUELCHASE???????????✨ See Why
SAMUEL CHASE was a Founding Father and served as an Associate Justice on the U.S. Supreme Court. In 1804, he was impeached by the House of Representatives due to political bias but was acquitted by the Senate, remaining on the court. He remains the only justice ever impeached.
24Super Bowl LVI winner, in briefLARAM?????✨ See Why
The clue refers to the NFL team that won Super Bowl LVI (56). The Los Angeles Rams secured the victory, and "in brief" suggests an abbreviation. LARAM is a short form for "Los Angeles Rams," aligning with the clue's reference to the winner.
25Resident of the Arab world's oldest continuously independent stateOMANI?????✨ See Why
The answer is OMANI because it refers to a resident of Oman. Oman is recognized as the Arab world's oldest continuously independent state, maintaining sovereignty since the 8th century. The demonym for people from Oman is "Omani," making it the correct solution to this clue.
26Equestrian's choicesGAITS?????✨ See Why
The answer "GAITS" refers to the different ways a horse can move, such as walk, trot, canter, and gallop. These are the "choices" an equestrian has when deciding how to ride or train their horse, making it the fitting solution for the clue.
27Sierra or YukonGMC???✨ See Why
GMC is the answer because both Sierra and Yukon are models of trucks or SUVs manufactured by General Motors Company (GMC). The clue refers to these vehicles, not geographic regions, making GMC the correct solution.
28Its national anthem has no wordsSPAIN?????✨ See Why
The answer is SPAIN because its national anthem, the "Marcha Real" ("Royal March"), is one of the few in the world without official lyrics. It is purely instrumental, making it unique and fitting for the clue "Its national anthem has no words."
29Come aboutARISE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Come about" means "to happen" or "to occur," aligning with the definition of ARISE. Both terms signify something coming into existence or taking place, making ARISE a fitting solution. This is a straightforward synonym-based clue with no additional wordplay involved.
30BuffTONED?????✨ See Why
The clue "Buff" refers to being in good physical shape, often described as "toned" when muscles are well-defined or firm. "Toned" captures the idea of fitness associated with the word "buff," aligning neatly as the solution.
32Unakyu roll ingredientEEL???✨ See Why
The Unakyu roll is a type of Japanese sushi roll, where "Una" refers to unagi, which means freshwater eel. Eel is a key ingredient in this roll, often grilled with a sweet soy-based sauce. Hence, the answer "EEL" fits perfectly for this clue.
35DearieHON???✨ See Why
The clue "Dearie" is a term of endearment, often used to refer to someone affectionately. "Hon," short for "honey," is another affectionate term frequently used in similar contexts, making it an apt synonym and solution.
36Very, very tallTOWERING????????✨ See Why
The answer "TOWERING" directly relates to the clue "Very, very tall" because "towering" is a descriptive word used to signify something reaching an extreme height, much like a "tower." It perfectly matches the literal meaning of being "very, very tall."
41Not directly in the sunSHADED??????✨ See Why
The clue "Not directly in the sun" implies being away from direct sunlight. The word "SHADED" describes an area protected from sunlight by something blocking it, like a tree or canopy. Thus, "SHADED" fits as the solution, as it directly conveys the absence of direct sun exposure.
42Something very attractiveCATNIP??????✨ See Why
The clue "Something very attractive" uses wordplay. CATNIP is famously irresistible to cats, metaphorically making it "very attractive." The answer plays on this idea, reinterpreting a substance cats are drawn to as something universally appealing, fitting the clue's playful tone.
44Former queen of JordanNOOR????✨ See Why
The answer is NOOR because Queen Noor was the fourth wife of King Hussein of Jordan and served as queen consort from their marriage in 1978 until King Hussein's death in 1999. She is a well-known former queen of Jordan, making her the correct answer for this clue.
45URL lettersHTTP????✨ See Why
The clue "URL letters" refers to the start of a web address, or URL (Uniform Resource Locator). HTTP (HyperText Transfer Protocol) is the foundational protocol used for transferring data over the web, commonly seen at the beginning of website addresses (e.g., http://). Hence, HTTP is the answer.
46___ Sea, body of water nowadays divided into "North" and "South"ARAL????✨ See Why
The ARAL Sea, once one of the world's largest lakes, has drastically shrunk due to river diversion projects. This shrinkage caused it to split into the "North Aral Sea" and the "South Aral Sea," matching the clue's description of a body of water now divided in this way.
47Drink served hot or coldSAKE????✨ See Why
The answer is SAKE because it is a traditional Japanese rice wine often served either warm (hot) or chilled (cold), depending on the occasion or preference. The clue directly describes this versatile serving style of sake, making it the perfect fit.
48Criticizes viciouslyRIPS????✨ See Why
The word "RIPS" can mean to tear into something forcefully, often used metaphorically to describe harsh criticism. "Criticizes viciously" conveys this forceful and aggressive nature, making RIPS the perfect fit for the answer. It captures the idea of tearing apart someone or something verbally.
50___ cow (black bovine with a white belt around its middle)OREO????✨ See Why
The clue uses wordplay. An "Oreo" cookie is black with a white cream center, resembling the "black bovine with a white belt around its middle" described in the clue. The pun likens the cookie's appearance to that of an Oreo cow, a nickname for Belted Galloway cattle.
51Kate of "Fantastic Four"MARA????✨ See Why
The answer is MARA because Kate Mara is an actress who starred as Sue Storm (The Invisible Woman) in the 2015 "Fantastic Four" movie. The clue refers to her by first name and connects it to her role in the superhero film.
52Whisper in a classroom, maybePSST????✨ See Why
The answer "PSST" fits because it represents a whispered sound used to get someone's attention quietly, which aligns with the clue's suggestion of a "whisper." The word "maybe" in the clue signals it's a possible example, making "PSST" a fitting, nonverbal classroom whisper.
54"Little piggy"TOE???✨ See Why
The clue "Little piggy" refers to the nursery rhyme "This Little Piggy," where each "piggy" represents a toe. Hence, the answer is TOE, symbolizing one of the toes involved in the rhyme. The clue plays on this cute and familiar association.
55Studio localeLOT???✨ See Why
The answer "LOT" refers to a film or television studio lot, where production takes place. A "lot" typically contains multiple soundstages, outdoor sets, and production facilities, making it a fitting "locale" for a studio. This straightforward clue points to the physical space used in the industry.
A smooth, spacious Friday from Gia Bosko, wide-open feel with marquee stacks galore. Loved the longies: REVERSE ENGINEER, FAIRY TALE ENDING, RAISE THE CURTAIN, TAKE NO PRISONERS, TRADITIONAL IRAS. Cluing sparkles: “Stone to cast?” = EMMA; “Solo in space” = HAN; “Where many gather to form a line?” = BINGO PARLOR. Nice culture mix (CABELLO, ELOISE, AMANDA Gorman) and crunchy trivia (SAMUEL CHASE, UNDEVIATING, OSTENTATION). Even evergreens get fresh coats: OREO as a belted cow; EEL in an unakyu roll. Minimal glue, fair crosses, and playful misdirects made this a quick-but-satisfying stroll through a well-crafted themeless.
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.
More Features
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