The title "Señor" is commonly abbreviated as "Sr.," using its first (S) and last (r) letters. The clue hints at a title, particularly in Spanish, as indicated by the convention of using such abbreviations for formal address titles.
6Storied stargazersMAGI????✨ See Why
The answer is MAGI because the Magi were wise men or astrologers in the biblical nativity story who followed a star to find baby Jesus. "Storied" refers to their famous role in the story, and "stargazers" hints at their study of the stars.
10Another name for ESPN8, with "the"OCHO????✨ See Why
The answer is OCHO because "Ocho" is Spanish for "eight," aligning with the "8" in ESPN8. "The Ocho" is also a humorous nickname made popular by the movie DodgeBall, referring to ESPN8 as a fictional, quirky sports channel. This clue uses wordplay and cultural references.
14___ Perry, award-winning author of 2022's "South to America"IMANI?????✨ See Why
The answer is IMANI because Imani Perry is the award-winning author of "South to America: A Journey Below the Mason-Dixon to Understand the Soul of a Nation," released in 2022. Her first name fits the blank, and the clue directly references her as the author.
15___ the Holy, canonized Norwegian kingOLAF????✨ See Why
The answer is OLAF because Olaf II Haraldsson, also known as Olaf the Holy, was a king of Norway canonized as a saint. His rule and Christian missionary efforts led to his sainthood and enduring legacy in Norwegian history. This clue refers directly to his title.
16Way out, sayDOOR????✨ See Why
The clue "Way out, say" uses wordplay. A "way out" can literally refer to an exit, and a DOOR is a common physical structure that serves as an exit. The phrase "say" indicates interpretation or an example, pointing to DOOR as a suitable answer.
17Little dippers?MINIDONUTS??????????✨ See Why
The clue "Little dippers?" uses a pun. "Little dippers" suggests something small that can be dipped. Mini donuts are small, bite-sized treats often dipped in coffee, chocolate, or icing, fitting the playful wordplay. The pun combines their size ("little") and their potential to be "dipped." Thus, the answer is MINIDONUTS.
19Targets for bark beetlesELMS????✨ See Why
The answer "ELMS" fits because bark beetles specifically infest and damage elm trees. These beetles burrow under the bark, causing harm to the tree’s vascular system. The clue targets the relationship between the pest and its preferred host.
20A&W or L&MBRANDNAME?????????✨ See Why
The clue references A&W (root beer) and L&M (cigarettes), both well-known commercial products. These are BRAND NAMEs—names used by companies to identify and market their goods, making the answer a direct and logical fit.
21Botanical jointNODE????✨ See Why
In botany, a "node" is a joint-like structure where a leaf, branch, or flower stems originate on a plant. The term "joint" in the clue refers to this intersection or connection point, making NODE the correct answer.
22JerkASS???✨ See Why
The clue "Jerk" is a play on words, indicated by its brevity. "Jerk" can mean an obnoxious person, which aligns with the slang term "ASS." This double meaning ties directly to the answer, employing wordplay to connect the insult to the solution.
23Cell service inits. LTE???✨ See Why
The clue "Cell service inits." refers to the initials of a common mobile network technology. LTE stands for "Long-Term Evolution," a standard for high-speed wireless communication used by cell phone networks. The abbreviation fits perfectly as the initials for this type of cell service.
24Neighbor of Baja CaliforniaSONORA??????✨ See Why
The clue refers to a geographical neighbor of Baja California, a state in Mexico. Sonora is another Mexican state that shares a border with Baja California to the east. This makes SONORA the correct answer based on its direct adjacency to Baja California geographically.
26"Funny how that works"HEH???✨ See Why
The clue "Funny how that works" in quotes signals a verbal or nonverbal reaction. "Heh" mimics a short, amused laugh or chuckle, commonly expressing mild surprise or amusement at an ironic or unexpected situation. It matches the tone and intent of the clue perfectly.
27Heat setting, perhapsMEET????✨ See Why
The answer "MEET" plays on the word "Heat" as a competitive setting, such as in a sports tournament or race. A "heat" is a qualifying round where competitors "meet" to determine who advances, cleverly tying the pun in the clue with its solution.
29"The Santa Clause" or "Legally Blonde"PUN???✨ See Why
The clue obviously signals wordplay. Both "The Santa Clause" and "Legally Blonde" are titles that involve a play on words or a clever twist in meaning—a hallmark of a PUN. Therefore, the answer is PUN.
30Wind up in ruinCOMETOABADEND?????????????✨ See Why
The phrase "Wind up in ruin" directly implies a negative or disastrous conclusion. "Come to a bad end" is an idiomatic expression that means to meet a terrible fate or failure, perfectly aligning with the clue. It explains figuratively "winding up" or finishing in ruin.
33Classic warning to a knightHEREBEDRAGONS?????????????✨ See Why
"HERE BE DRAGONS" is a phrase historically used in maps to warn of unknown or dangerous territories, often associated with mythical creatures. A "knight" suggests a medieval context, aligning with this classic warning of peril in uncharted areas. The clue references this legendary caution.
34Kick-starter program?KARATELESSONS?????????????✨ See Why
The clue "Kick-starter program?" is a playful pun. It hints at a program that involves starting (learning) kicks. KARATELESSONS fits perfectly, as karate involves learning and practicing various kicks, making it a "kick-starter" program in both a literal and figurative sense.
35"To All the Boys ___ Loved Before" (best-selling young adult novel)IVE???✨ See Why
The answer "IVE" completes the title of the best-selling young adult novel "To All the Boys I've Loved Before" by Jenny Han. It refers to the contraction "I've," short for "I have," which fits the title of the book perfectly.
36Campus buildingHALL????✨ See Why
The clue "Campus building" refers to a common structure found on college or university grounds. A "HALL" is a general term for an academic building, often housing classrooms, lecture spaces, or dormitories, which makes it a fitting solution.
37"Big" digitTOE???✨ See Why
The clue "Big" digit uses wordplay, with "digit" referring to a part of the body, not a number. A toe is a type of digit on the foot, and the "big" digit specifically refers to the big toe. This pun explains why TOE is the solution.
38Not say something in jestMEANIT??????✨ See Why
The clue "Not say something in jest" implies speaking seriously or sincerely, opposite of joking. To "mean it" is to express something earnestly and without humor, making MEANIT the correct answer. It fits the straightforward tone of the clue, indicating genuine intent rather than jest.
40"Toy Story" bullySID???✨ See Why
In Pixar's Toy Story, Sid is the notorious neighborhood bully who terrorizes toys by breaking and disfiguring them. The clue directly references this character, making SID the correct answer.
41___ tov (Jewish holiday)YOM???✨ See Why
The clue "___ tov (Jewish holiday)" refers to a common Hebrew phrase "Yom Tov," which translates to "Good Day" and is used to describe certain Jewish holidays. "Yom" means "day" in Hebrew, fitting the blank and completing the phrase associated with Jewish religious observances.
44"I'm afraid ..."ALAS????✨ See Why
The clue "I'm afraid ..." uses quotation marks, signaling the answer is a spoken expression. "ALAS" is an exclamation expressing regret, sorrow, or fear, aligning perfectly with "I'm afraid" as a way to convey concern or disappointment.
45Noted resident of "Little Lhasa" in the Indian state of Himachal PradeshDALAILAMA?????????✨ See Why
The Dalai Lama resides in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh, nicknamed "Little Lhasa" due to its Tibetan exiled community. As the spiritual leader of Tibetan Buddhism and a prominent figure among Tibetan refugees, his residence there makes him the "noted resident" referenced in the clue.
48Library catalog IDISBN????✨ See Why
The answer "ISBN" stands for International Standard Book Number, a unique identifier assigned to books for cataloging and tracking in libraries and bookstores. Since the clue refers to a "Library catalog ID," ISBN is correct as it directly links to a book's cataloging ID.
49What dilapidated buildings and rampant graffiti may be a sign ofURBANDECAY??????????✨ See Why
The clue points to visible signs of neglect or decline in city areas. "Dilapidated buildings" and "rampant graffiti" suggest physical and aesthetic deterioration typically associated with "URBAN DECAY," a term describing the degradation of infrastructure and living conditions in urban environments.
50Director JohnsonRIAN????✨ See Why
The answer "RIAN" refers to Rian Johnson, a well-known film director, writer, and producer. He is famous for directing films like Looper, Knives Out, and Star Wars: The Last Jedi. The clue directly points to the first name of this notable director, making "RIAN" the correct answer.
51Veteran of the seasSALT????✨ See Why
The word "SALT" is shorthand for "old salt," a term used to describe an experienced sailor or "veteran of the seas." It reflects their familiarity with maritime life, much like a seasoned individual is "seasoned" with salt. This nautical slang makes SALT the apt answer.
52Prefix with musicology or linguisticsETHNO?????✨ See Why
The prefix "ETHNO-" refers to "ethnic" or "culture." Ethnomusicology is the study of music within cultural contexts, and ethnolinguistics explores the relationship between language and culture. Thus, "ETHNO" fits as the prefix linking these fields to cultural perspectives.
53Moving well over 60, perhaps?SPRY????✨ See Why
The clue "Moving well over 60, perhaps?" uses wordplay with the phrase "over 60," which could imply age. "Spry" means active or nimble, often describing older individuals who remain energetic and agile, fitting the playful interpretation of someone "moving well" past age 60.
54Leaves speechlessAWES????✨ See Why
The clue "Leaves speechless" refers to causing awe or wonder, which often results in someone being left speechless. The word "AWES" directly represents that emotional reaction of amazement or astonishment, effectively matching the clue.
55MovingASTIR?????✨ See Why
The answer "ASTIR" works for the clue "Moving" because "astir" means being awake, active, or in motion, which aligns with the concept of something or someone being in a state of movement or activity. It's a synonym for the idea of being "up and about."
Down
1Swahili for "lion"SIMBA?????✨ See Why
The clue specifies "Swahili," signaling the answer will be in that language. In Swahili, "simba" directly translates to "lion." Additionally, this is famously referenced in The Lion King, where the main character is named Simba, reinforcing its meaning.
2Heads of state in Qatar and KuwaitEMIRS?????✨ See Why
The answer "EMIRS" refers to rulers or heads of state in certain Islamic countries. Both Qatar and Kuwait are led by emirs (alternative spelling: amirs), a traditional Arabic title for monarchs or governors. This directly aligns with the clue, making EMIRS the correct solution.
3GramsNANAS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Grams" refers to a casual, affectionate term for grandmothers. "Nanas" is a common nickname for grandmothers, making it the appropriate answer. The plural form "Grams" matches the plural "Nanas," ensuring the clue and answer align grammatically.
4"Come ___!"ONIN????✨ See Why
The phrase "Come ___!" is often completed with the invitational "on in," forming "Come on in!"—a welcoming expression. The clue in quotes signals a spoken phrase, and "ONIN" fits the blank to represent this common casual invitation.
5Lead-in to a puzzling questionRIDDLEMETHIS????????????✨ See Why
The clue “Lead-in to a puzzling question” hints at wordplay or a phrase. "Riddle me this" is a common idiom or playful phrase used to introduce a riddle or puzzling question, fitting both the clue's phrasing and its intent.
6Janelle of "Hidden Figures"MONAE?????✨ See Why
The answer is MONAE because Janelle Monáe is an actor and musician who played Mary Jackson, one of the lead roles in the film Hidden Figures. The clue references her first name to lead solvers to her last name, Monáe.
7'22 or '23ALUM????✨ See Why
The clue '22 or '23 refers to years of graduation. Someone who graduated in 2022 or 2023 is a former student, also known as an ALUM (short for alumnus/alumna). It's a clever way to hint at a former graduate without explicitly stating it.
8Stadium salesGATE????✨ See Why
The clue "Stadium sales" refers to ticket sales for events at a stadium. "GATE" is often used as shorthand to describe ticket revenue or attendance, derived from "gate receipts," which are earnings from ticket sales. Hence, GATE fits as the answer.
9They may or may not happenIFS???✨ See Why
The answer "IFS" fits because "ifs" implies hypothetical scenarios or conditions (e.g., "what if"). Such possibilities highlight uncertainty—they may or may not occur. This clue plays on the word's meaning, making "ifs" a fitting and concise solution.
10Classical theaterODEON?????✨ See Why
ODEON refers to an ancient Greek or Roman building used for musical and theatrical performances, aligning directly with "Classical theater." Its origin ties to the word "ode," reflecting its use for odes and performances in classical antiquity, making it the perfect fit for the clue.
11Sketches that end with "Live from New York, it's Saturday night!"COLDOPENS?????????✨ See Why
The answer is COLDOPENS because on Saturday Night Live (SNL), "cold opens" are sketches that air at the start of the show without an introduction. They traditionally end with the cast exclaiming, "Live from New York, it's Saturday night!"—making it a perfect fit for the clue.
12Major successes, so to speakHOMERUNS????????✨ See Why
The clue "Major successes, so to speak" uses a pun, as indicated by 'so to speak.' A "home run" in baseball is a major success, and metaphorically, it also refers to achieving something highly successful in any context. The plural form "HOMERUNS" fits the clue perfectly.
13Spots for scrubs, for shortORS???✨ See Why
The clue "Spots for scrubs, for short" refers to places where medical scrubs are commonly worn. "ORS" is short for Operating Rooms, where medical professionals wear scrubs during surgeries and procedures. The abbreviation "ORS" matches the "for short" hint in the clue.
18Patrolling a neighborhoodONTHEBEAT?????????✨ See Why
The phrase "on the beat" is commonly used to describe a police officer patrolling their assigned area or neighborhood. It originates from the term "beat," referring to the regular route or area an officer monitors. Hence, "Patrolling a neighborhood" aligns directly with this expression.
21"I'd avoid that"NOTAGOODIDEA????????????✨ See Why
The clue "I'd avoid that" is in quotes, indicating a spoken phrase. "NOTAGOODIDEA" matches this tone as a conversational response someone might say to discourage an action. It directly conveys the sense of avoiding something due to potential negative consequences, fitting the casual and advisory nuance of the clue.
24Viola's twin brother in "Twelfth Night"SEBASTIAN?????????✨ See Why
In Shakespeare's play Twelfth Night, Viola and Sebastian are twin siblings separated by a shipwreck. The plot revolves around their mistaken identities and eventual reunion. The clue directly asks for Viola's twin brother, making SEBASTIAN the correct answer.
25"Soooo …?"AND???✨ See Why
The clue "Soooo …?" with the question mark signals wordplay or conversational context. "Soooo …?" mimics a drawn-out pause inviting continuation or connection in speech. The word "AND" is often used in conversations to connect thoughts or prompt continuation, perfectly fitting the clue's phrasing.
26Wedding reception highlight, maybeHORA????✨ See Why
HORA fits because it refers to a traditional Jewish circle dance often performed at weddings. This lively highlight sees guests lifting the couple on chairs while dancing in unison. The “maybe” in the clue suggests it’s common at specific cultural weddings, adding flexibility to the association.
27Fashion plate, maybeMODEL?????✨ See Why
The clue "Fashion plate, maybe" hints at wordplay or a double meaning. A "fashion plate" typically implies someone stylish, but it can also refer to a fashion model, who literally showcases outfits or trends on runways or photoshoots. Hence, the answer is MODEL.
28Old-fashioned TV antenna, jocularlyEARS????✨ See Why
The clue "Old-fashioned TV antenna, jocularly" hints at a playful or informal term. In the past, TV antennas were nicknamed "rabbit ears" due to their shape resembling a pair of ears. "EARS" is the shortened, humorous answer that fits perfectly with the pun and nostalgia.
30On-the-go breakfast optionCEREALBAR?????????✨ See Why
The clue "On-the-go breakfast option" points to a portable, convenient breakfast item. A CEREALBAR is a compact, handheld snack made of cereal ingredients, designed specifically for quick consumption when time is limited—perfect for breakfast on the move. Thus, it fits the clue perfectly.
31GiveawayTELL????✨ See Why
The clue "Giveaway" refers to something that reveals or indicates a hidden truth. A "TELL" is a term often used to describe a subtle giveaway, especially in poker or other situations, where an action inadvertently reveals information. Therefore, TELL fits perfectly as the solution.
32___ dealDONE????✨ See Why
The phrase "___ deal" often refers to a completed or finalized agreement. The answer "DONE" fits because it conveys the idea that the deal is finished, sealed, or resolved. It's a common expression in English, making it the perfect solution for the blank.
33Tasteful invitation?HAVEASIP????????✨ See Why
The clue "Tasteful invitation?" includes a question mark, signaling wordplay. "Tasteful" refers to tasting something, and "invitation" suggests being offered something. The phrase "Have a sip" is a casual invitation to taste a drink, making it both literal and pun-based, fitting the clue perfectly.
34Family name of three BTS membersKIM???✨ See Why
The answer is KIM because three members of the globally popular K-pop group BTS—Kim Namjoon (RM), Kim Seokjin (Jin), and Kim Taehyung (V)—share the same family name, Kim. In South Korea, Kim is one of the most common surnames.
39One tending kidsNANNY?????✨ See Why
The clue "One tending kids" refers to someone who cares for or looks after children. A "NANNY" is a professional caregiver hired to tend to children, fitting perfectly as the answer. This is a straightforward definition clue without puns or wordplay.
40Bits of wood panelingSLATS?????✨ See Why
SLATS is the solution because slats are thin, narrow strips of material, often wood, commonly used in paneling or furniture assembly. They fit the description of "bits of wood" and are particularly associated with constructing wooden panels or surfaces, aligning neatly with the clue provided.
41Vessel with two silent lettersYACHT?????✨ See Why
The solution is YACHT because it is a type of vessel, specifically a recreational boat. The clue mentions "two silent letters," which are the "C" and "H" in YACHT—they are not pronounced in the word. Thus, it fits both the definition and wordplay of the clue.
42Like the Mideast's Bahla FortOMANI?????✨ See Why
The Bahla Fort is located in Oman, a country in the Middle East. The adjective "OMANI" refers to something or someone from Oman. Since the clue describes the fort's origin or association, the answer "OMANI" appropriately fits.
43Head to town?MAYOR?????✨ See Why
The clue "Head to town?" includes a pun, suggested by the question mark. A "head" of a town refers to its leader or chief official, which is typically the mayor. So, "MAYOR" fits both as the leader (head) and relates directly to governing a town.
45Capture the attention ofDRAW????✨ See Why
The answer is DRAW because "capture the attention of" can mean to attract or pull focus, which aligns with one meaning of DRAW – to pull or attract something, like attention. It's a direct synonym in this context.
46Free (to)ABLE????✨ See Why
The clue "Free (to)" suggests being "capable" or "allowed" to do something. "Able" fits as it means having the ability or freedom to act, aligning with "free" in the sense of "empowered" or "capable to." It's a synonym and the correct solution.
47"Count me in!"LETS????✨ See Why
The clue "Count me in!" is in quotes, signaling a spoken phrase. "Count me in!" is an expression meaning "I'm in" or "I agree to join." Similarly, "LETS" implies giving permission or agreement to participate, making it the fitting response.
48Org. concerned with reporting IRS???✨ See Why
The IRS (Internal Revenue Service) is the U.S. government agency responsible for collecting taxes. It oversees tax reporting, ensuring individuals and businesses file accurate returns. The clue hints at "reporting," which relates to reporting income, deductions, and taxes—making IRS the fitting answer.
49Host nation of the 2028 OlympicsUSA???✨ See Why
The USA is the host nation for the 2028 Olympics, specifically Los Angeles, which was selected by the International Olympic Committee. This aligns with the clue’s reference to the future games and matches the abbreviation for the United States, commonly known as USA.
Maddy Ziegler’s debut Saturday puzzle is a treat—playful, smooth, and unusually approachable for a weekend grid. The long entries sparkle: COMETOABADEND, HEREBEDRAGONS, KARATELESSONS, and URBANDECAY give the puzzle a lively backbone. Cluing stays clever without veering into obscurity—“Little dippers?” for MINIDONUTS and “Kick-starter program?” for KARATELESSONS are standouts. Even the shorter fill (HEH, LTE, TOE) feels conversational rather than filler-y. For a Saturday, it was on the easier side, but that only made it more fun, smooth and witty without the usual grind. An impressive, confident debut that bodes well for Ziegler’s crossword future.
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
Statistics: Track Progress: View puzzle stats.
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Access Archives: Download and play past puzzles offline for continued enjoyment and practice.