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NYT Crossword Answers: Get Hints and Solve All Clues

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Across

  • The clue uses quotation marks and 'perhaps,' signaling wordplay or an unconventional interpretation of "table." Here, "lap" refers to the part of your body where a TV dinner might rest when no actual table is used. It's a playful substitute for a dining surface.

  • The clue "Messy abode" refers to a place often associated with extreme untidiness. A "pigsty" is literally where pigs live, which are known for messy environments. Figuratively, it is also commonly used to describe any very untidy or messy space, making it the perfect fit here.

  • The answer "SMS" refers to "Short Message Service," the standard format for sending text messages via mobile phones. The clue specifies "in brief," hinting at an abbreviation, and SMS is the established acronym for this communication method widely used for texting.

  • The answer "APR" refers to April, the month abbreviated as such. April begins with April 1st, famously known as April Fools' Day, a day associated with pranks. Since the clue specifies "Abbr.," the solution uses the shortened form of the month.

  • The answer "ANEMIA" fits the clue "Weakness" because anemia is a medical condition where the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells, reducing oxygen flow. This often causes physical weakness and fatigue, directly linking the solution to the clue.

  • The answer is HANA because the Hana Highway is a famous scenic route on the island of Maui, Hawaii. It stretches from Kahului to the town of Hana, attracting tourists with its lush landscapes, waterfalls, and coastal views. The blank in the clue refers to the town, Hana.

  • This clue is a themer (Spoonerism). It looks like “recently dated,” but swap the starting sounds to get “decently rated,” which fits GOODENOUGH.

  • Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), a country in the Arabian Peninsula. Most citizens of Abu Dhabi are ethnically Arab, making "ARAB" the fitting answer for "Many a citizen of Abu Dhabi." The clue refers to the region's predominant ethnicity.

  • The clue refers to "wrapping up a film," implying the physical wrapping or storage of film reels. A "spool" is the cylindrical device on which film is wound for storage or use, making it the perfect answer for this wordplay-based clue.

  • The clue "Gained a wider following" implies an increase in popularity or reach, which aligns with the word GREW. To grow means to expand or increase, whether in numbers, influence, or attention, fitting perfectly with the idea of a broader following.

  • The clue "Riddled (with)" suggests something filled or abundant with something, often in a pervasive or overwhelming sense. "Rife" means widespread, abundant, or filled, aligning perfectly with the clue. For example, "a statement rife with errors" shows it is riddled with them. Thus, RIFE fits well.

  • The clue "Top up" means to replenish or add more to something to make it full. The word "FILL" directly corresponds to this action, as it means to add to capacity or complete something. Hence, "FILL" is the perfect match for the clue.

  • The clue "No guts" seems to make no sense here, but you have to apply the spoonerism trick (it's a themer) to transfomr it into“go gnuts” which is to FREAK OUT.

  • The clue uses a pun. A "screwdriver" is not just a tool but also a popular cocktail made with vodka and orange juice. The place where someone might ask for this drink is a BAR, making it the fitting answer.

  • AOL (America Online) was a pioneering tech company in the early days of the internet, especially prominent in the 1990s and early 2000s. Known for its iconic dial-up service and "You've Got Mail" greeting, AOL played a significant role in introducing people to online communication and browsing.

  • HST refers to Harry S. Truman, the 33rd U.S. president, known for his "Fair Deal" domestic policy, which aimed to improve social programs and civil rights. His initials, HST, are a shorthand often used in crosswords for Truman.

  • The answer "ASEA" works because at the end of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, Frodo departs Middle-earth by sailing across the sea to the Undying Lands. “Asea” describes being out on the sea, fitting the situation. It's a literal description of Frodo's final journey.

  • The clue "Chaps" refers to a synonym for young men or boys, commonly used in British English. "LADS" fits perfectly as it is an informal term for young men or guys, aligning with the straightforward meaning of the clue.

  • A haiku is a traditional form of Japanese poetry consisting of three lines with a syllable pattern of 5-7-5. It typically does not rhyme, emphasizing imagery and brevity instead. The clue "Poem that's typically unrhymed" directly describes this characteristic of a haiku, making it the correct answer.

  • Read as written, “battle carriers” is odd. Spoonerize, and it becomes “cattle barriers,” which clearly defines CHAINLINKFENCES.

  • The HYDRA is a creature from Greek mythology, known for its ability to regenerate two heads for every one that was cut off. It was famously defeated by Hercules in his twelve labors. The clue directly references its defining trait, making HYDRA the correct answer.

  • RAIL is a fitting answer because it refers to railroads or trains, which are common commuting options, especially in urban and suburban areas. Trains provide an efficient means of transportation for commuters traveling to and from work, making "RAIL" a logical solution to the clue.

  • KALE is a leafy green vegetable commonly used in green smoothies to boost their nutritional value. It is not a fruit, making it a perfect fit for the clue. Known for its earthy flavor and high nutrient content, KALE complements other ingredients in smoothies.

  • In the Domino's logo, there are three dots representing pips, like on the face of a domino tile. Each dot is called a "pip," which is a standard term for the dots on dice, dominoes, or playing cards. The logo uses these pips to resemble a domino tile design.

  • The answer is TUT because it's a nonverbal syllable expressing disapproval or annoyance, much like "Tsk." Both sounds convey a similar sentiment, often used to chastise or show disapproval. The clue's phrasing with "akin to" indicates a comparable exclamation, making TUT a fitting solution.

  • The answer "LPS" refers to "long-playing records," commonly known as vinyl records. Audiophiles, who have a passion for high-quality sound, often collect LPs for their rich, analog audio quality. The clue specifies "for short," indicating the abbreviation LPS fits perfectly for this type of collection.

  • At first, the clue “Packed lunch” looks like it’s pointing to something you’d eat, but the answer FELLFLAT doesn’t connect. The trick is the puzzle’s theme: swap the opening sounds to reveal a hidden phrase. “Packed lunch” becomes “lacked punch,” which matches FELLFLAT perfectly.

  • The solution BAWL fits the clue "Wail" because both words describe loud, emotional crying or lamentation. The terms are synonyms often used to convey intense expressions of grief or sadness, making BAWL the appropriate match for the straightforward clue.

  • The clue suggests a color ("shade") associated with an "island scene." AQUA, a bluish-green hue resembling clear tropical waters, fits this imagery perfectly. The "maybe" hints it's a descriptive choice, aligning with the vibrant, calm tones often seen around island destinations.

  • In the Bible, Joel and Amos are consecutive books in the collection of the Minor Prophets in the Old Testament. Amos directly follows Joel, making "AMOS" the logical answer for "Follower of Joel." This clue refers to their order in biblical texts.

  • The clue "Here's the scoop!" signals wordplay. A "scoop" can refer to a tool used to serve liquids or semi-liquids. A ladle is a utensil specifically designed for scooping and serving soups or stews, making it the fitting pun-based answer.

  • The answer "RUIN" fits the clue "Colossally bad consequence, as with finances," because financial ruin refers to a severe, catastrophic loss of money or assets. It embodies a disastrous outcome with finances, making "ruin" an accurate and concise solution.

  • The revealer, SPOONERISM, unlocks the puzzle’s trick. In the theme clues, phrases that seem odd at first—like “Packed lunch”—only make sense if you swap their opening sounds. That spoonerized version (“lacked punch”) perfectly matches the answers, making the theme both clever wordplay and a consistent solving device.

  • The clue "Wizard" directly refers to a person skilled in magic, which is defined by the term "MAGE." Both "wizard" and "mage" are synonyms for a magical or sorcerous individual, making MAGE the fitting answer. No puns or additional wordplay is involved here.

  • The clue "Some underground networks" uses wordplay, with "underground" hinting at subway systems, which are often called "metros" (short for metropolitan rail systems) in many cities worldwide. These urban transit systems operate largely underground, making "METROS" the perfect fit for the clue.

  • The clue "Kapow!" is enclosed in quotes, signaling an onomatopoeic sound effect. "BAM" is a common comic book or cartoon exclamation representing a sudden impact or action, much like "Kapow!" Both are dramatic, sound-based words tied to physical or explosive moments, making BAM the perfect fit.

  • The fleur-de-lis is a stylized lily symbol, historically associated with French royalty and culture. The clue "Fleur-de-___" directly points to this symbol, where "lis" is the French word for "lily," completing the phrase. Hence, LIS is the correct answer.

  • The answer "ADHERE" fits because it means to stick closely or follow faithfully, often used with "to" (e.g., adhere to rules). The clue directly describes this behavior, aligning "Follow, with 'to'" with the meaning of ADHERE.

  • The clue includes "Italian," indicating the answer is in Italian. In Italian, "Come sta?" translates to "How are you?"—a formal way to ask someone's well-being. "Sta" is the correct answer, derived from the verb "stare," meaning "to be" or "to stay."

Down

  • The clue "Problems with a livestream, maybe" uses "maybe" to suggest a possible issue. The term "LAGS" refers to delays or interruptions in a livestream's performance, which are common streaming problems. This makes "LAGS" the fitting solution.

  • The clue "For one" refers to something happening individually or per instance. The answer "APOP" is short for "a pop," commonly used to mean "per person" or "each." For example, "Tickets cost $10 a pop," fits this phrasing, aligning with "For one."

  • The clue "Mark one's words?" includes a question mark, indicating wordplay. "Mark" suggests checking or correcting, and "one's words" refers to text. PROOFREAD fits because it means reviewing and marking corrections on written text, aligning perfectly with the pun in the clue.

  • The answer is PAELLA because it is a traditional Spanish rice dish famously seasoned with saffron, which gives it its distinct golden color and flavor. The clue directly describes the dish, aligning with this classic preparation that originated in Valencia, Spain.

  • The clue "Stop for the night, say" suggests a place where one might stay overnight. An "INN" fits perfectly, as it refers to a small hotel or lodging establishment where travelers can rest for the night. The phrase aligns with the purpose of an inn.

  • The clue "Social studies subj." asks for an abbreviation of a subject taught in social studies. "GEOG" is short for Geography, a key branch of social studies focusing on Earth's physical features, climates, and human interactions. The abbreviation matches the shortened format suggested by "subj."

  • The answer "SMURF" refers to the blue, small humanoid characters from the classic cartoon and comic series "The Smurfs." They live in a hidden village made of mushroom-shaped houses, fitting the clue perfectly as residents of a hidden mushroom village.

  • The answer "TIGER" fits "Go-getter" because tigers are known for their strength, determination, and relentless hunting prowess, embodying a "go-getter" attitude. It metaphorically refers to someone who is fiercely ambitious and proactive in achieving their goals.

  • The answer "YAHWEH" is the Hebrew name for God, originating from the Tetragrammaton (YHWH), a sacred, unpronounceable representation of God in Judaism. It reflects the divine name revealed to Moses in the Hebrew Bible. This clue directly references this widely recognized Hebrew term for God.

  • The answer is SHARKTANK because it’s a reality TV show where entrepreneurs present business "pitches" to a panel of investors (the "sharks") in hopes of securing funding for their ideas. "Pitches" cleverly refers to their business proposals, aligning perfectly with the clue.

  • The clue "Red-clad brother of 54-Down" refers to the famous video game characters Mario and Luigi. Mario, known for his red attire, is Luigi's brother in the Super Mario series. The answer to 54-Down is "LUIGI," making "MARIO" the correct answer for this clue.

  • The answer "SNAFU" comes from military slang meaning "Situation Normal: All Fouled (or Fed) Up," which describes a chaotic or messy situation. The phrase has evolved into a general term for a major mess or confusion, perfectly fitting the clue's meaning.

  • The clue "Provide support for something crooked?" uses wordplay and a pun. "Crooked" hints at wrongdoing or a crime, and "provide support" suggests aiding. The answer, ABET, means to assist or encourage someone in committing a wrongdoing, perfectly matching the clever phrasing in the clue.

  • The clue "___ ever!" indicates a spoken exclamation or interjection. "Doi" is an informal, playful way of saying "duh" or "obviously," often used to emphasize something obvious. It fits the blank perfectly as an interjected response, making "Doi ever!" a natural phrase.

  • The clue "Take it easy" suggests relaxing or being idle. "LOLL" means to recline or lounge in a relaxed manner, perfectly matching the idea of taking it easy. Its casual, laid-back nature aligns with the clue’s intent, making "LOLL" the ideal solution.

  • The answer is ASHE, referring to Arthur Ashe, an iconic figure in tennis history. He was the first Black male player to achieve the #1 global ranking and is celebrated for his groundbreaking accomplishments and activism. The clue hints at his historic significance and unmatched legacy in the sport.

  • The answer "BACH" refers to a "bachelor party," often abbreviated as "bach party." It’s a pre-wedding celebration held for the groom-to-be, hence fitting the clue "___ party (pre-wedding activity, informally)." The informal context suggests the shortened form "bach."

  • The answer "ASHY" fits "Ghostly in appearance" because "ashy" describes a pale, grayish, or lifeless complexion, often resembling the color of ashes. This pallid and washed-out look evokes the ghostly or spectral appearance referenced in the clue.

  • The clue "The Batcave, for one" refers to the concept or type of place the Batcave represents. A "lair" is a secretive hideout or dwelling often associated with animals or fictional characters like superheroes. The Batcave serves as Batman's hidden base, making "LAIR" the fitting answer.

  • The clue "They might have their noses turned up" is a playful way to describe airplanes. Airplanes physically "turn their noses up" during takeoff or ascent, making this a clever pun. The clue signals wordplay, pointing to this figurative interpretation.

  • The phrase "how you're wired" is a metaphor for what determines your fundamental traits. DNA, or deoxyribonucleic acid, is the biological basis of genetic information that "wires" or determines an organism's characteristics. The clue’s playful tone, ending with "so to speak," points to this scientific foundation.

  • The clue "Bit of camp entertainment" refers to a short, comedic, or playful performance often put on for fun, especially in group settings like at camps. A SKIT perfectly fits this description, as it is a brief humorous act typically performed for entertainment at such gatherings.

  • The clue “That one's mine!” is in quotes, signaling a spoken phrase. “I call dibs” is a common way to claim something as yours, often informally. The playful tone matches the clue's phrasing, making ICALLDIBS the perfect fit.

  • The clue refers to marine "forests," which are underwater ecosystems formed by large seaweed. Kelp, a type of seaweed, grows densely in underwater "forests," providing habitat for marine life. Hence, KELP is the fitting answer as it directly represents a member of these marine forests.

  • The clue "Functions" refers to how something operates or is utilized. "Uses" fits as it means employing something for a purpose or function. Both "functions" and "uses" share similar meanings related to purpose or utility, making "uses" the correct answer.

  • The answer "NAIF" fits the clue "Innocent sort" because "naif" is a term that describes someone who is artless, innocent, or simple-minded. Derived from French, it conveys a sense of childlike purity or inexperience, perfectly matching the idea of an "innocent sort."

  • The answer "FLUB" fits the clue "Mess up" because "flub" is a synonym for making a mistake, error, or blunder, which aligns directly with the phrase "mess up." It’s a concise, informal term often used to describe failing or bungling something.

  • PLASMA is the solution because it refers to plasma TVs, a type of television that uses plasma display technology to create images. This was a common type of flat-screen TV before being largely replaced by LED and OLED models.

  • The answer is TALESE because Gay Talese is a renowned author and journalist known for his book Honor Thy Father, which chronicles the story of a Mafia family. The blank in "Gay ___" directly refers to his last name, "Talese." The clue succinctly identifies him by his work.

  • The clue "Stable environment?" uses wordplay indicated by the question mark. A "stable" can refer to a building for housing farm animals, making "FARM" the broader environment where such a stable exists. Thus, FARM is the fitting pun-based answer for this clue.

  • The clue references "4!" (factorial of 4, which is 4 × 3 × 2 × 1 = 24) and the number 24. The factorial’s result is equal to 24, making the relationship "Like 4! and 24" accurately described by the answer EQUAL.

  • The answer "LUIGI" refers to Luigi, the green-clad brother of Mario, both iconic characters in the Super Mario video game franchise. The related clue at 11-Down answers "Mario," confirming Luigi as Mario's sibling and identifying him by his signature green attire.

  • The clue "Psyched" directly relates to being excited, enthusiastic, or energized. "Amped" is slang for feeling extremely excited or pumped up, often in anticipation of something. It fits perfectly as a synonym for "psyched" in this energetic context.

  • The answer "TOOTH" fits because John Lennon's extracted molar was auctioned in 2011. The clue's humor lies in "fittingly, to a dentist!"—connecting a tooth to a dentist. This is a literal reference and a playful nod to the profession of the winning bidder.

  • The answer "WAR" fits because "price of war" (the cost of conflict) and "proxy war" (a war fought on behalf of others) are common phrases. The clue leverages these established word pairings to lead solvers to the correct term.

  • The clue "Ticked off" means angry or irritated, and SORE is a synonym for being upset or annoyed. It fits perfectly as it conveys a similar emotional state, commonly used to describe someone hurt or irritated, aligning with the clue's intent.

  • The LSAT (Law School Admission Test) is an exam required for law school admission, and it includes sections assessing logical reasoning, along with other skills like reading comprehension and analytical reasoning. The clue specifies "partly" and "for short," pointing to LSAT as the abbreviated answer.

  • The answer is EMMA because Emma D'Arcy is the actor who stars as Rhaenyra Targaryen in HBO's series House of the Dragon. The blank in the clue indicates the actor's first name, and Emma D'Arcy is a central cast member, making this the correct solution.

  • The answer "NOR" is a logical conjunction used in formal logic. It represents a compound statement asserting that neither of two propositions is true. In logic, "NOR" is the equivalent of "not (A or B)," making it a common term in logical operations or truth tables.

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Nice debut — Joel Woodford leans into classic wordplay with a lively Spoonerism theme that’s perfectly Thursday-level. Four long acrosses hide answers that only make sense once you swap initial sounds (or letters) in the clue phrases, producing wry misdirections: GOOD ENOUGH / —> decently rated; FREAK OUT / —> no guts; CHAIN LINK FENCES / —> battle carriers; FELL FLAT / —> packed lunch. The grid stays clean around the trick, and lively bits (TEATREE, GOBBLEUP, LADLE, HYDRA) keep the pace. Sharp cluing, satisfying reveals, and a polished debut.

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