The phrase "to the hilt" is an idiom meaning to the fullest extent or maximum. A hilt is the handle of a sword, and driving something "to the hilt" suggests complete immersion or effort, metaphorically expressing the idea of going all the way. Hence, HILT fits perfectly.
5"Suitable, I guess"ITLLDO??????✨ See Why
The clue "Suitable, I guess" suggests a casual, nonchalant acceptance. The phrasing matches the colloquial expression "It'll do," meaning something is adequate or acceptable, though not perfect. The contraction ITLLDO perfectly fits the informal tone and conversational style implied by the clue's quotation marks.
11Small storage unitBYTE????✨ See Why
The answer "BYTE" fits because a byte is a standard unit of digital storage in computing, typically used to store small amounts of data, like a single character. Since "small storage unit" refers to a compact measure of data capacity, BYTE aptly describes it.
15"___ News Central" (daily program)CNN???✨ See Why
The answer is CNN because "CNN" stands for Cable News Network, a major news channel known worldwide. "News Central" is a daily program aired on CNN, making it a logical and fitting choice to complete the clue. The clue's reference points directly to this well-known network.
18Sea adventure novel by Herman MelvilleOMOO????✨ See Why
The answer "OMOO" refers to Herman Melville's 1847 novel, Omoo: A Narrative of Adventures in the South Seas. It is a sequel to his earlier sea adventure novel Typee and continues exploring themes of sailing and adventure in the Pacific islands, fitting the "Sea adventure novel" clue perfectly.
19RumpPATOOT??????✨ See Why
The clue "Rump" refers to a playful, slang term for buttocks. "Patoot" (short for "patootie") is a humorous, informal word for the same body part. This lighthearted slang fits perfectly with the tone of the clue, making it the solution.
20Sounds of amazementOOHS????✨ See Why
The clue "Sounds of amazement" signals a nonverbal expression. "OOHS" represents the elongated "ooh" sound people make when expressing awe, wonder, or amazement. The plural form fits the clue's "sounds" wording, making it the precise and fitting answer.
21SpoilsLOOT????✨ See Why
The clue "Spoils" can mean plunder, goods taken during conflict, or stolen treasures. "Loot" is a synonym for such spoils, referring to stolen or seized items, often in the context of pillaging or robbery. The connection is straightforward through this shared definition.
22MOVEYOURASH???????????✨ See Why
This playful phrase riffs on “move your ass,” but with Connery’s famous accent the sharp “s” softens into “sh.” The result is both a cheeky command and a perfect showcase of how his voice reshaped words.
24WHATAMESH?????????✨ See Why
Here the common phrase “what a mess” becomes “what a mesh,” echoing Connery’s signature “s-to-sh” sound. The clue doubles down with a mosquito net context, making the wordplay both logical and thematic.
26Greatest potential accomplishment, metaphoricallyEVEREST???????✨ See Why
The answer "EVEREST" metaphorically represents the greatest potential accomplishment because Mount Everest is the tallest mountain in the world, often symbolizing the ultimate challenge or peak ambition. Conquering Everest is a common metaphor for achieving one's highest goal or overcoming monumental obstacles.
27Non-free-range farm fixtureFEEDLOT???????✨ See Why
The answer "FEEDLOT" fits because a feedlot is where livestock, such as cattle, are confined and fed, rather than being allowed to roam freely. "Non-free-range" indicates confinement, and "farm fixture" refers to this common agricultural setup for raising animals efficiently.
29Container weightTARE????✨ See Why
"TARE" refers to the weight of an empty container. When measuring goods, the tare is subtracted from the total weight to determine the actual weight of the contents. The clue "Container weight" directly points to this term used in shipping and weighing practices.
30Pick up at schoolLEARN?????✨ See Why
The clue "Pick up at school" refers to acquiring knowledge or skills, which is what students do at school. "Pick up" is a figurative phrase for gaining or learning something. Hence, the answer "LEARN" fits as it corresponds to gaining knowledge at school.
31Actor PascalPEDRO?????✨ See Why
The answer is PEDRO because Pascal refers to Pedro Pascal, a well-known actor famous for roles in popular series like The Mandalorian and The Last of Us. His first name, Pedro, directly solves the clue "Actor Pascal."
32KissSMOOCH??????✨ See Why
The clue "Kiss" directly defines an informal or playful synonym of the action. SMOOCH is a casual term for a kiss, particularly one that's affectionate. This fits perfectly as the answer, as it maintains the same tone and meaning as the clue.
34Celestial sphereORB???✨ See Why
The answer "ORB" fits the clue "Celestial sphere" because an orb refers to a spherical object, often associated with celestial bodies like planets or stars. "Orb" is frequently used poetically or symbolically to describe a sphere in the sky, linking it directly to the "celestial" context.
35Went from 0 to 60, sayAGED????✨ See Why
The clue "Went from 0 to 60, say" uses wordplay. It refers figuratively to the process of aging—starting young ("0") and growing older ("60"). "Aged" captures this progression of time and maturity, fitting the clue’s metaphorical context rather than a literal speed.
37Nipsey Russell's role in 1978's "The Wiz"TINMAN??????✨ See Why
Nipsey Russell played the Tin Man in the 1978 film adaptation of "The Wiz," a reimagining of "The Wizard of Oz." The Tin Man is a central character who seeks a heart, making "TINMAN" the correct answer to this clue.
40"___ America (And So Can You!)" (Stephen Colbert best seller)IAM???✨ See Why
The answer "IAM" completes the title of Stephen Colbert's satirical best seller I Am America (And So Can You!). The phrase plays on Colbert's comedic persona, emphasizing self-empowerment and parodic patriotism, making "I Am" the perfect fit to begin the title.
42Device for cutting bangs?SILENCER????????✨ See Why
The clue "Device for cutting bangs?" uses a pun. "Bangs" can refer to gunshots, and a "silencer" is a device used on firearms to suppress or "cut" the sound of those "bangs," making the answer SILENCER a clever double entendre.
45More in need of a sticky rollerLINTIER???????✨ See Why
The clue "More in need of a sticky roller" suggests something with more lint. "Lintier" is the comparative form of "linty," meaning having more lint. A sticky roller is used to remove lint from surfaces, making "lintier" the perfect descriptive answer.
47ZealousAVID????✨ See Why
The clue "Zealous" suggests being passionate, enthusiastic, or eager about something. "Avid" directly matches this definition, as it describes someone who is keen or intensely enthusiastic. Both words share similar connotations of fervent interest, making AVID an accurate solution.
48Guide for writing a perfect letterSTENCIL???????✨ See Why
The clue "Guide for writing a perfect letter" uses wordplay. A stencil is a tool that acts as a guide for accurately reproducing letters, ensuring they are perfectly shaped. It aligns with the idea of "guiding" while tying into the "perfect letter" theme through its precision.
49AdornBEDECK??????✨ See Why
The word "BEDECK" means to decorate or adorn something, such as embellishing or covering it with ornaments. It directly matches the clue "Adorn," as both suggest enhancing something’s appearance with decorative elements. The prefix "BE-" emphasizes the action of covering or adorning completely.
50Some skin care productsTONERS??????✨ See Why
The clue "Some skin care products" refers to cosmetic items used to cleanse, refresh, and balance the skin. TONERS are a common category of skincare products designed to remove residue, tighten pores, and restore the skin’s pH balance after cleansing, making it a perfect fit for the clue.
52GODSHAVETHEKING???????????????✨ See Why
A royal twist on “God save the king,” this entry imagines Connery delivering the line in his unmistakable accent. The substitution of “sh” for “s” transforms solemn tradition into playful parody.
55Comics cry of dismayACK???✨ See Why
"ACK" is the solution because it’s a common exclamation of frustration or dismay often used in comics to express annoyance, surprise, or distress. It’s short, nonverbal, and conveys emotion, matching the clue’s indication of a “cry” specific to comic-style storytelling.
58___ codeAREA????✨ See Why
The answer "AREA" fits because "area code" refers to the numeric prefix in a phone number that designates a specific geographic region. It is a common term in telecommunications, making "area" the appropriate word to complete "___ code."
59Tiny and scurrying, perhapsANTLIKE???????✨ See Why
The clue "Tiny and scurrying, perhaps?" hints at behavior resembling that of ants, known for their small size and rapid, busy movement. The word "perhaps" signals approximation, making "ANTLIKE" a fitting adjective describing something small and quick-moving, similar to an ant.
63SHINEDSHIELDDELIVERED?????????????????????✨ See Why
Borrowing from the phrase “signed, sealed, delivered,” this one leans into Connery’s accent shift. The added medieval imagery of a polished knight’s shield makes the pun extra vivid and thematic.
71Green gemstonePERIDOT???????✨ See Why
The answer is PERIDOT because it is a known green gemstone, often olive-green in color. PERIDOT is a mineral variety of olivine and has been prized for its vibrant green hue, fitting the straightforward clue "Green gemstone."
72Brand of bubbly, informallyMOET????✨ See Why
MOET refers to Moët & Chandon, a renowned champagne brand, often associated with luxury and celebration. "Bubbly" is slang for champagne, and "informally" hints at using just "MOET," a shortened, casual reference to the brand. Perfect fit for this clue!
73___ de vieEAU???✨ See Why
The clue "___ de vie" is a French phrase meaning "water of life," which refers to strong spirits like brandy. The French word for "water" is EAU, fitting the blank. The clue's French context points to a French word as the answer—hence, EAU.
74COULDIHAVEASHIP???????????????✨ See Why
This clever entry plays on “could I have a sip,” a fitting nod to Bond’s martini habit. In Connery’s voice, the “sip” becomes “ship,” turning a cocktail request into a maritime pun.
82Composure under pressureAPLOMB??????✨ See Why
The answer "APLOMB" fits because the word means self-assured confidence, poise, or composure, especially in tough or high-pressure situations. It aligns directly with the clue "Composure under pressure," as "aplomb" is often used to describe someone handling stress or challenges gracefully.
85Firmly plantedROOTED??????✨ See Why
The answer "ROOTED" works because it describes something firmly planted, much like roots anchor a plant securely in the ground. Metaphorically, it can also mean being deeply established or grounded in a certain place, idea, or situation, aligning perfectly with the clue's intent.
86Sizable wine ordersCARAFES???????✨ See Why
The clue "Sizable wine orders" refers to larger quantities of wine. A "carafe" is a container, often used in restaurants, for serving wine in generous portions. The plural "carafes" fits the clue, as it matches the idea of multiple sizable wine servings being ordered.
90ZestPEEL????✨ See Why
The answer "PEEL" fits because "zest" refers to the outermost, flavorful layer of citrus fruits like lemons or oranges, which is scraped off for cooking or garnishing. This layer is also called the "peel." The clue plays on this culinary term to connect zest with peel.
91Hero's partner in mythLEANDER???????✨ See Why
In Greek mythology, Hero and Leander are lovers in a tragic tale. Hero, a priestess, lived in a tower, while Leander swam across the Hellespont nightly to see her. The clue refers to this famous mythological pairing, making LEANDER the correct answer as Hero’s partner.
93Real ladies' manCASANOVA????????✨ See Why
The term Casanova refers to the historical figure Giacomo Casanova, an 18th-century Venetian known for his romantic exploits and charm with women. As a result, "Casanova" is often used to describe a man who is exceptionally skilled at winning over women, fitting the clue "Real ladies' man."
94Bit of workERG???✨ See Why
The solution "ERG" fits because an erg is a unit of work or energy in the physics context, defined as the work done by a force of one dyne over a distance of one centimeter. "Bit of work" directly hints at this small unit of work.
95It's always getting into hot waterTEABAG??????✨ See Why
The clue signals a pun or wordplay. A TEABAG is literally placed into hot water to brew tea. Figuratively, the phrase "getting into hot water" also suggests trouble, adding a humorous twist to the literal action. Hence, TEABAG fits perfectly.
96Theatrical constructionsSETS????✨ See Why
In theater, "SETS" refers to the stage designs or scenery used to create the setting for a production. These are essential "theatrical constructions" as they visually establish the time, place, or mood of a play, perfectly fitting the clue.
97UnburdenRID???✨ See Why
The word "Unburden" means to free or relieve someone or something from a burden. "RID" directly relates to this as it means to free oneself or something from unwanted weight, trouble, or stress, aligning perfectly with the clue's intent.
98Computer shortcutsMACROS??????✨ See Why
The answer "MACROS" refers to automated sequences of commands or actions programmed into software, often used to perform repetitive tasks quickly. This makes them "computer shortcuts," as they streamline processes, saving time and effort. They're commonly used in applications like Excel or Word.
100Muse of love poetryERATO?????✨ See Why
ERATO is the solution because, in Greek mythology, Erato is one of the nine Muses and specifically the Muse of lyric and love poetry. Her name is associated with romantic and passionate expressions, aligning perfectly with the clue's reference to love poetry.
103"You can't win ___"EMALL?????✨ See Why
The clue "You can't win ___" is a play on the phrase "You can't win 'em all," which is a common saying implying that not every venture will succeed. The solution "EMALL" phonetically completes the phrase, delivering the pun.
105Writer ___ Stanley GardnerERLE????✨ See Why
The answer "ERLE" refers to Erle Stanley Gardner, the famous American author best known for creating the fictional defense attorney Perry Mason. His prolific writing and popular legal mysteries make him a common reference in crosswords. The clue directly names him, so "ERLE" is the straightforward solution.
106"Is that a certainty?"YOUSURE???????✨ See Why
The clue "Is that a certainty?" is enclosed in quotation marks poiting to a conversational phraase with the same meaning. The phrase "YOU SURE?" is a casual, spoken way of asking someone to confirm their certainty about something, matching the tone and phrasing of the clue perfectly.
109Unruly, as a beardSCRAGGY???????✨ See Why
The clue "Unruly, as a beard" describes something rough, uneven, or untamed in appearance. "Scraggy" specifically refers to being ragged, thin, or messy, which perfectly aligns with the description of an unkempt, unruly beard. The word vividly evokes the scruffy look of a disorderly beard.
111Secret agent first introduced in 1953JAMESBOND?????????✨ See Why
The clue references "Secret agent" and the year 1953. James Bond, the iconic fictional British secret agent created by Ian Fleming, first appeared in the 1953 novel Casino Royale. Hence, JAMESBOND is the fitting answer.
113Classic 111-Across portrayer, whose iconic accent is suggested by the answers to the italicized cluesSEANCONNERY???????????✨ See Why
The answer SEAN CONNERY fits because he is the iconic actor who portrayed James Bond (111-Across). His distinct Scottish accent aligns with the pun-based answers to the italicized clues, which mimic that accent’s slurred “sh” or “s” sounds, paying homage to his unique speech style.
115Langston Hughes poemITOO????✨ See Why
The answer "ITOO" refers to the famous Langston Hughes poem "I, Too". This poem is a powerful piece about racial equality and identity in America, where the speaker declares, "I, too, sing America," asserting their rightful place in the nation's narrative. Hence, "ITOO" directly relates to this poem's title.
116Aston Martin, e.g.AUTO????✨ See Why
The clue "Aston Martin, e.g." refers to what an Aston Martin is—it's a type of car or automobile. "AUTO" is a shorthand term for "automobile," making it the appropriate answer. The "e.g." signals a general category, not the brand itself.
117CharmENDEAR??????✨ See Why
The clue "Charm" refers to the act of making oneself lovable or winning someone over. The word "ENDEAR" means to cause someone to feel affection or love toward you, matching the definition of "Charm" as an action. Thus, ENDEAR is the correct answer.
118Member of a watery quintetERIE????✨ See Why
The clue "Member of a watery quintet" refers to the five Great Lakes in North America: Superior, Michigan, Huron, Erie, and Ontario. Erie is one of these lakes, making it part of the "watery quintet." The word "quintet" specifically hints at a group of five.
119Adriatique, e.g.MER???✨ See Why
The clue "Adriatique, e.g." points to the Adriatic Sea, and "Adriatique" is French for "Adriatic." This foreign language indicator suggests the answer is in French. In French, "sea" is "mer," making MER the correct solution.
120School attended by both 111-Across and his creatorETON????✨ See Why
ETON is the answer because the clue references both "111-Across" and its creator, suggesting a shared connection. If 111-Across refers to James Bond, both he (fictionally) and his creator, Ian Fleming, attended Eton College, a prestigious UK school, tying them together in this solution.
121Debate-ending replySAYSME??????✨ See Why
The clue "Debate-ending reply" suggests a dismissive or definitive statement that might end an argument. "SAYSME" is a colloquial, emphatic phrase used to assert one’s opinion with finality, as if to say, "Because I said so." The informal tone matches the wordplay implied by the clue.
122Figs. most people have memorizedSSNS????✨ See Why
The clue "Figs. most people have memorized" refers to figures commonly committed to memory. "SSNS" stands for Social Security Numbers, which are vital personal identification numbers nearly everyone in the U.S. memorizes for various official purposes, making it a fitting answer.
Down
1Win for an away teamHOMELOSS????????✨ See Why
The clue "Win for an away team" refers to the outcome of a game where the visiting team achieves victory. For the home team, this result is a "HOME LOSS," as they are defeated on their own turf. The phrase directly describes the situation in reverse terms.
2"That doesn't bother me anymore"IMOVERIT????????✨ See Why
The clue, "That doesn't bother me anymore," suggests a phrase expressing emotional detachment or no longer being upset. "IMOVERIT" is a casual, spoken expression that directly communicates this sentiment, making it a perfect match for the clue enclosed in quotes.
3WinsomeLOVEABLE????????✨ See Why
The clue "Winsome" directly relates to being charming, endearing, or attractive in a sweet or innocent way. The word "LOVEABLE" perfectly aligns with this definition, describing someone or something that easily inspires love or affection, which is a key aspect of being winsome.
4It's human, in a sayingTOERR?????✨ See Why
The phrase "To err is human" highlights that making mistakes is a natural part of being human. The answer "TOERR" directly references this saying, emphasizing that making errors ("to err") is a human trait. The clue's wording connects clearly to this common proverb.
5Big events on Wall St.IPOS????✨ See Why
The answer "IPOS" refers to Initial Public Offerings, significant events on Wall Street where private companies first sell their shares to the public, marking their debut on the stock market. These events often generate excitement and attention, making them "big events" in the financial world.
6Full of tensionTAUT????✨ See Why
The word "TAUT" means stretched tightly or under strain, closely aligning with the clue "Full of tension." It captures the physical or metaphorical sense of being tightly drawn, which matches the clue's straightforward descriptive nature.
7Abbr. on a paper trayLTR???✨ See Why
The answer "LTR" is the abbreviation for "Letter," a standard paper size (8.5 x 11 inches) commonly used in the U.S. Paper trays on printers and copiers often display "LTR" to indicate they hold letter-sized paper. The clue directly hints at this abbreviation.
8Whiled away the hoursLOAFED??????✨ See Why
The phrase "Whiled away the hours" means idly spending time or being unproductive. "LOAFED" perfectly fits this definition, as it describes lounging, idling, or doing little to nothing—essentially passing time without purpose, aligning directly with the clue's meaning.
9Gave medicineDOSED?????✨ See Why
The clue "Gave medicine" directly relates to the act of administering a measured amount of medication. The word "DOSED" perfectly fits, as it means to give or administer medicine in controlled doses. Its past tense aligns with "Gave" in the clue.
10DifferentOTHER?????✨ See Why
The word "Different" and "OTHER" are synonyms, as both suggest something distinct or not the same. "OTHER" means an alternative or another option, aligning with the idea of being "different" from what is already considered. This is a straightforward, direct clue.
11Poke ___BOWL????✨ See Why
The clue "Poke ___" refers to the Hawaiian dish "poke bowl." A bowl is the typical serving vessel for poke, which is a dish of diced raw fish and toppings. Therefore, BOWL completes the phrase, matching the culinary term and context of the clue.
12Start of a pirate chantYOHO????✨ See Why
The answer "YOHO" fits the clue "Start of a pirate chant" because pirates are famously associated with the phrase "Yo-ho-ho," often heard in songs or chants like "Yo-ho-ho and a bottle of rum." The clue's phrasing signals a verbal start to this iconic chant.
13"There I am in the photo"THATSME???????✨ See Why
The clue "There I am in the photo" is spoken casually. The answer, THAT'S ME, reflects the phrase someone might say when identifying themselves in a picture. It fits the conversational tone implied by the quotation marks in the clue.
14Winter hours in Conn.EST???✨ See Why
The clue "Winter hours in Conn." refers to the time zone observed in Connecticut during winter. Connecticut is in the Eastern Time Zone, and during winter, it follows Eastern Standard Time (EST). Hence, "EST" is the correct answer for this clue.
15Exhibiting some forceCOERCIVE????????✨ See Why
The clue "Exhibiting some force" hints at applying pressure or control. COERCIVE describes actions or behavior involving force or intimidation to compel someone to act. It aligns with the notion of "exhibiting some force," as it implies pressure rather than physical violence. This is why COERCIVE fits perfectly.
16Part of a personal air filtration systemNOSEHAIR????????✨ See Why
The answer is NOSEHAIR because nose hairs act as a natural "air filtration system" by trapping dust, pollen, and other particles before they enter the respiratory system. The clue uses a touch of humor to describe this biological function in technical terms, making it a fitting and clever solution.
17Degree in math?NTH???✨ See Why
The clue "Degree in math?" uses a question mark to signal wordplay. In mathematics, "NTH" refers to an unspecified or general position in a sequence, often associated with a degree of something (e.g., the Nth degree in calculus or polynomials). Thus, NTH fits as the answer.
21["Ha ha 2 funny!!!!]LMAO????✨ See Why
The clue ["Ha ha 2 funny!!!!] represents an exaggerated, online-styled reaction to something extremely funny. LMAO, an internet acronym for "Laughing My A** Off," fits this tone. The emphatic text and excessive punctuation align with the exuberant nature of LMAO as a digital expression of hilarity.
23ThirstYEN???✨ See Why
The answer "YEN" works for "Thirst" because "yen" can mean a strong desire or craving, which metaphorically aligns with the idea of thirst — an intense longing or need. This interpretation extends beyond physical thirst to encompass figurative cravings.
25Lots and lotsATON????✨ See Why
The phrase "A ton" (phonetically "ATON") is commonly used to mean "lots and lots" in a figurative sense, emphasizing a large quantity. The clue uses its literal synonym, making ATON a fitting solution.
28Certain URL endingDOTNET??????✨ See Why
The clue "Certain URL ending" refers to common domain name endings used in web addresses. DOTNET (.net) is one such ending typically associated with network-related businesses, organizations, or technology providers, making it the correct answer. It directly describes part of a URL.
31A popPER???✨ See Why
The clue "A pop" refers to a way of expressing cost or rate per item or unit. "Per" serves as shorthand for "per each" or "per unit." For example, "$2 a pop" means "$2 per item." Therefore, PER is the correct answer.
33Favorite drink of 111-AcrossMARTINI???????✨ See Why
Bond’s iconic choice - a martini, “shaken, not stirred” - cements the theme. It’s trivia every fan knows, perfectly matching the puzzle’s Bond references and its playful wordplay on sipping and drinks.
35What wine or citrus adds to a sauceACID????✨ See Why
The answer is ACID because both wine and citrus are naturally high in acidity. When added to a sauce, the acid enhances flavor by balancing richness and intensifying other ingredients, creating a bright, tangy element indispensable in cooking.
36Hairstyle helpersGELS????✨ See Why
The answer "GELS" fits because hair gels are products commonly used to style and hold hairstyles in place. The clue "Hairstyle helpers" simply refers to items that assist in managing or styling hair, and gels are a straightforward, practical example of such helpers.
38Allergic reactionITCH????✨ See Why
The answer "ITCH" fits the clue "Allergic reaction" because itching is a common symptom of an allergic response. Allergens, such as pollen or certain foods, often trigger the skin or body to itch as part of the body's immune reaction. This makes "ITCH" both accurate and concise.
39Company originally named Blue Ribbon SportsNIKE????✨ See Why
NIKE is the correct answer because the company, now a global sports and athletic brand, was founded in 1964 as Blue Ribbon Sports. It rebranded to NIKE in 1971, named after the Greek goddess of victory, aligning with its focus on athleticism and competition.
41E.R. V.I.P.sMDS???✨ See Why
The clue "E.R. V.I.P.s" refers to important individuals in an Emergency Room (E.R.), emphasizing medical professionals. "M.D.s" stands for "Doctors of Medicine" (Medical Doctors), who are critical figures in an E.R. and fit the description of "V.I.P.s" in this context.
43High school subj.ENG???✨ See Why
The clue "High school subj." refers to a common abbreviation for a high school subject. "ENG" is short for "English," a standard subject taught in high schools. The abbreviation fits the clue's succinct style, as "subj." signals a shortened form.
44Base figure, for shortNCO???✨ See Why
The answer "NCO" stands for Non-Commissioned Officer, a military rank typically found on military bases. As the "Base figure," this clue hints at someone integral to operations on a base. The "for short" indicates the need to use the abbreviation, making NCO the correct answer.
45Bank security featureLEVEE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Bank security feature" uses a bit of wordplay. Here, "bank" refers to the side of a river, and a LEVEE is a structure built to prevent flooding, effectively "securing" the riverbank. This plays on the double meaning of "bank" (financial vs. riverbank).
46Perfect matchIDEALMATE?????????✨ See Why
The clue "Perfect match" refers to an ideal romantic partner or someone who perfectly complements another. "IDEALMATE" directly describes this concept, as "ideal" implies perfection, and "mate" refers to a partner. Together, they succinctly define "Perfect match."
47It's right on a squareANGLE?????✨ See Why
The clue "It's right on a square" uses wordplay. A square has four right angles, and the word "right" indicates the geometric connection. An angle is literally "right" (90 degrees) on a square, as all the corners of a square are right angles. Hence, the answer is ANGLE.
49Port on the AdriaticBARI????✨ See Why
Bari is a port city on the Adriatic Sea, located in southeastern Italy. It is the capital of the Apulia (Puglia) region and a significant hub for trade, fishing, and tourism, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Port on the Adriatic."
51AiringONTV????✨ See Why
The clue "Airing" refers to something being broadcast or shown publicly. The term "ON TV" fits as it directly describes content being aired on television, aligning with the idea of broadcasting or presenting something to an audience.
53Shout of triumphHAH???✨ See Why
The clue "Shout of triumph" is in quotes, signaling a spoken or exclamatory response. "HAH" captures a short, exuberant expression of victory or triumph, often exclaimed when something succeeds or goes one's way, making it an apt solution.
54___-El (Superman's birth name)KAL???✨ See Why
The answer is KAL because Superman's Kryptonian birth name is Kal-El. In the DC Comics universe, Kryptonian names often include the suffix "-El," denoting a family lineage. "___-El" directly points to Kal-El, Superman's original name before becoming Clark Kent on Earth.
55Relative of an adderASP???✨ See Why
The clue "Relative of an adder" refers to types of snakes. An adder is a venomous snake, and an asp is another well-known venomous snake, making them relatives. This clue uses biological association to link the two species, with "asp" being the short, accurate answer.
56"Evita" role for Antonio BanderasCHE???✨ See Why
In Andrew Lloyd Webber's musical Evita, Antonio Banderas played the role of Che, a narrator-like character. While loosely inspired by Che Guevara, the role is more of a storyteller observing Eva Perón’s life and is not meant to be historically tied to Guevara.
57___ royale (cocktail)KIR???✨ See Why
The answer is KIR because a "Kir Royale" is a classic cocktail made with crème de cassis (blackcurrant liqueur) and champagne. "Kir" refers to the cocktail family that includes variations like the Kir Royale (with sparkling wine) and the regular Kir (with white wine).
60IndignationIRE???✨ See Why
The clue "Indignation" refers to strong anger or annoyance. "IRE" is a synonym for anger or rage, often associated with indignation or irritation. The concise nature of the clue aligns with "IRE" as a short and fitting answer.
61New Zealand parrot that can solve logic puzzlesKEA???✨ See Why
The KEA is a highly intelligent species of parrot native to New Zealand. Known for their problem-solving abilities and curiosity, they can tackle complex logic challenges. The clue’s reference to "logic puzzles" highlights this unique trait, directly pointing to the KEA as the answer.
62End of an academic addressEDU???✨ See Why
The answer "EDU" refers to the domain extension commonly used by educational institutions for their websites (e.g., harvard.edu). Since an "academic address" often refers to an email or web address for schools, "EDU" fittingly represents the "end" of such addresses.
64Williamson who played Merlin in "Excalibur"NICOL?????✨ See Why
The answer is NICOL because Nicol Williamson, a Scottish actor, played the role of Merlin in the 1981 fantasy film Excalibur. His portrayal of the iconic wizard in this Arthurian legend is widely recognized, making NICOL the correct solution to the clue.
65Biblical kingdom near the Dead SeaEDOM????✨ See Why
EDOM is the solution because it was an ancient kingdom located south of the Dead Sea, mentioned in the Bible. It was inhabited by the descendants of Esau (Jacob’s brother), and its proximity to the Dead Sea aligns with the geographical hint in the clue.
66Feature of this puzzle's circled squares that, when connected by a single line, visually represents 111-AcrossDOUBLEO???????✨ See Why
DOUBLE-O names Bond’s elite agent class—00 agents—so it’s a perfect revealer. In this grid the circled squares are all O’s; when you draw a single connecting line through them, those O’s become the twin zeroes of 007, while the connecting stroke completes the visual “7.”
67Stitching on a Cardinal's capSTL???✨ See Why
The clue "Stitching on a Cardinal's cap" refers to the logo on the cap of the St. Louis Cardinals, a Major League Baseball team. "STL" is the abbreviation for St. Louis, which is commonly stitched on their caps. This uses wordplay with "stitching" to point to the logo.
68Mid-Atlantic state capitalDOVER?????✨ See Why
The clue "Mid-Atlantic state capital" refers to the capital city of a state in the Mid-Atlantic region of the U.S. Dover is the capital of Delaware, which is a state in that region. Hence, the correct answer is DOVER.
69A good one might generate good karmaDEED????✨ See Why
A "deed" refers to an action or act. A good deed, such as a kind or charitable act, is often believed to generate good karma due to the spiritual or moral principle of cause and effect — good actions leading to positive outcomes. Hence, "DEED" fits perfectly.
70J.F.K. predictionETA???✨ See Why
The clue "J.F.K. prediction" references John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). In this context, "prediction" refers to a flight's "Estimated Time of Arrival," commonly abbreviated as ETA. It’s a forecasted time for when a flight is expected to land at an airport like JFK.
75Far from brightDRAB????✨ See Why
The clue "Far from bright" describes something dull, lacking brightness or vibrancy. "DRAB" is an adjective that means dull, colorless, or uninteresting, perfectly fitting the description of being the opposite of bright. Hence, DRAB is the correct answer to this clue.
76University in New Rochelle, N.Y.IONA????✨ See Why
IONA is the correct answer because Iona University is a private Roman Catholic university located in New Rochelle, New York. The clue directly describes its location, making IONA the fitting solution.
77Obergefell v. ___, milestone case for marriage equalityHODGES??????✨ See Why
The answer is HODGES because Obergefell v. Hodges was a landmark 2015 Supreme Court case that legalized same-sex marriage across the United States. The case is named after plaintiff Jim Obergefell and the defendant, Richard Hodges, then-Ohio's health director.
78Improvise à la Ella FitzgeraldSCAT????✨ See Why
The answer is SCAT because Ella Fitzgerald was renowned for "scat singing," a vocal improvisation technique using nonsensical syllables instead of lyrics. The clue "Improvise à la Ella Fitzgerald" directly references this signature jazz style, making SCAT the fitting solution.
79Avocado varietyHASS????✨ See Why
The answer "HASS" is correct because it refers to the most common variety of avocado. The Hass avocado is widely cultivated and recognized for its creamy texture and pebbly skin. Named after Rudolph Hass, who patented the cultivar, it’s a fitting solution for "Avocado variety."
80Portfolio holding, for shortIRA???✨ See Why
The answer "IRA" stands for Individual Retirement Account, which is a type of investment portfolio commonly used for retirement savings. The phrase "for short" indicates that the answer is an abbreviation, making IRA a fitting solution for this clue.
81Give a bad reviewPAN???✨ See Why
The answer "PAN" fits because "pan" can mean to harshly criticize or give a negative review, often used in the context of reviews for movies, performances, or works of art. The clue directly aligns with this definition of the word.
82ImitateAPE???✨ See Why
The answer "APE" is correct because the word can mean to mimic or imitate closely, often in a way that copies someone's behavior, speech, or mannerisms. This aligns perfectly with the clue "Imitate," as APE is synonymous with this action in English.
83Spread throughoutPERMEATE????????✨ See Why
The clue "Spread throughout" directly refers to something that penetrates or disperses entirely. "Permeate" means to diffuse or pass through every part, fitting perfectly. For example, a smell or liquid that spreads through a space or substance is said to permeate it—matching the definition of "Spread throughout."
84Greaves and cuisses, but not gauntlets and helmetsLEGARMOR????????✨ See Why
Greaves and cuisses are pieces of armor that protect the legs, while gauntlets cover the hands and helmets the head. The clue points specifically to leg protection, making "LEG ARMOR" the accurate solution.
87Those who hunt and gatherFORAGERS????????✨ See Why
FORAGERS fits the clue "Those who hunt and gather" because it refers to people or animals who search widely for food, encompassing both hunting and gathering activities. This term historically describes humans in pre-agricultural societies who relied on these methods for sustenance.
88Feature of many a gloating movie villainEVILGRIN????????✨ See Why
The clue refers to a typical trait of gloating movie villains, who often display a sinister or mischievous expression. "Evil grin" aptly describes this, as it combines "evil" (villains’ nature) and "grin" (smug expression of gloating or triumph). It's a common trope in movies, making it the fitting answer.
89"Alas, it is true"SADLYYES????????✨ See Why
The clue "Alas, it is true" is expressed in a tone of regret or disappointment. "SADLYYES" directly conveys this sentiment, combining "sadly" (expressing regret) and "yes" (confirmation of truth). Together, it matches the phrasing and emotional tone of the clue perfectly.
92Grounder to second, oftenEASYOUT???????✨ See Why
A "grounder to second" is a baseball play where the ball is hit on the ground towards the second baseman. These plays are often routine, leading to an easy out for the defense. Thus, "EASYOUT" fits perfectly as it describes the typical result of such a play.
93Corp. bigwigCEO???✨ See Why
The answer is "CEO" because it stands for Chief Executive Officer, the highest-ranking executive in a corporation (or "corp.") who is responsible for making major decisions. "Bigwig" emphasizes someone of great importance, perfectly fitting the CEO's prominent role in a corporation.
95___ leches cakeTRES????✨ See Why
The solution "TRES" refers to "tres leches cake," a popular Latin American dessert. The phrase means "three milks" in Spanish ("tres" means "three"), as the cake is soaked in three types of milk: evaporated, condensed, and whole milk. The clue hints at this cultural and linguistic context.
96BeauSTEADY??????✨ See Why
"Beau" is a term for a romantic partner or suitor. The answer "STEADY" fits as it is often used to describe a consistent, committed romantic relationship, commonly referred to as someone's "steady" boyfriend, girlfriend, or partner. This makes "STEADY" a fitting synonym for "Beau."
99Late jazz singer ___ LaineCLEO????✨ See Why
CLEO Laine was a renowned jazz singer famous for her unique vocal versatility and worldwide acclaim. The clue specifically references "Late jazz singer," pointing to the British artist Cleo Laine, who passed away, fitting the description perfectly.
101Sly schemesRUSES?????✨ See Why
The clue "Sly schemes" suggests deceptive or crafty plans, aligning perfectly with the word "RUSES." A ruse is a trick or stratagem, typically used to deceive. The word "sly" emphasizes cunning, which ties directly to the nature of ruses as clever, deceptive tactics.
102Paris's Dôme de Paris, e.g.ARENA?????✨ See Why
The Dôme de Paris is a well-known event venue in Paris used for concerts, sports, and shows. Such venues are often referred to as arenas. Hence, "ARENA" is the correct answer, describing the function of the Dôme de Paris.
103Sea eagleERN???✨ See Why
The answer "ERN" is a variation of "erne" or "erne," which is another term for the white-tailed sea eagle, a large bird of prey. In crosswords, shortened or variant spellings like "ERN" are often used due to space constraints.
104Zebra features that mirror their body stripesMANES?????✨ See Why
The answer is MANES because zebras have manes that run along their necks, which appear striped just like their bodies. These manes "mirror" the zebra's iconic body stripes in their pattern, providing both a literal and visual similarity, perfectly fitting the descriptive clue.
107"You're ___ something"ONTO????✨ See Why
The phrase "You're ___ something" implies realization or catching on to an idea, plan, or situation. The answer "ONTO" completes the phrase as an idiomatic expression, meaning to have discovered or understood something, often used in contexts like "You're onto something big!"
108Japanese noodleUDON????✨ See Why
UDON is a type of thick wheat-based noodle commonly used in Japanese cuisine. Since the clue directly asks for a "Japanese noodle" with no wordplay or alternate hints, UDON is the straightforward and correct answer.
109Many a get-rich-quick offerSCAM????✨ See Why
The clue "Many a get-rich-quick offer" hints at schemes that seem too good to be true but are deceptive. These offers often promise easy wealth but lack legitimacy. "SCAM" fits perfectly, as it refers to fraudulent schemes commonly associated with such get-rich-quick promises.
110HeartCORE????✨ See Why
The clue "Heart" refers to the central or most essential part of something, which aligns directly with the definition of "CORE." Both words metaphorically represent the innermost or most vital element, making CORE the fitting solution for this straightforward definition-based clue.
111Beam on a bottleJIM???✨ See Why
The clue "Beam on a bottle" uses wordplay. It refers to Jim Beam, a popular bourbon brand. "Beam" hints at the brand, and "on a bottle" suggests its association with alcohol. Thus, the answer is JIM, as in Jim Beam whiskey.
112Modern pet nameBAE???✨ See Why
The clue "Modern pet name" points to "BAE," a slang term derived from "babe" or "baby," often used to refer to a romantic partner. It's modern because of its recent popularity in social media and pop culture, fitting the playful and affectionate nature of a "pet name."
114Platform for Super Mario Bros., for shortNES???✨ See Why
NES is the solution because it stands for Nintendo Entertainment System, the gaming console on which Super Mario Bros. was originally released in 1985. The clue specifies "for short," indicating an abbreviation, which aligns with NES being the console's commonly used acronym.
This Sunday’s puzzle by Danny J. Rooney is an absolute treat and a remarkably confident debut. The title “A Man of Character” sets the stage for a tribute to 111-Across, JAMES BOND, with multiple layers: we get SEAN CONNERY as the “classic portrayer,” a neat nod to his Scottish accent hidden in italicized punny themers, and the circled letters forming a perfect 007 when connected. Add in MARTINI as a bonus, and the set feels complete. What makes this puzzle sing is how seamlessly the visual, linguistic, and cultural elements fuse. It’s clever, elegant, and worthy of a Bond debut.
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.
Settings: adjust settings for a personalized experience.
Access Archives: Download and play past puzzles offline for continued enjoyment and practice.