{Larry, Sue, Emma} - NYT The Crossword Clue

The term "Angel's Share" refers to the portion of whiskey that evaporates during the aging process in wooden barrels. Distillers poetically attribute this lost vapor to the "angels," as if they take their share of the whiskey. Hence, "SHARE" is the fitting answer.

The tibia is the larger of the two bones in the lower leg and is commonly known as the shinbone. When the clue is "Shinbone," it directly refers to the tibia, providing a straightforward anatomical answer. This is a literal definition with no wordplay involved.

The answer "INEPT" fits because it directly means lacking skill, ability, or competence—in other words, completely incompetent. The clue uses straightforward language with no wordplay, making "INEPT" the most accurate and concise match for the definition provided.

The clue "Time for Sat. prep?" is a playful wordplay clue. "Sat." here refers to Saturday, not the SAT exam. The time to prepare for Saturday is the day before—Friday, abbreviated as FRI.

"FEN" is a term for a type of wetland or marshland, characterized by waterlogged, nutrient-rich ground. It aligns directly with the definition given in the clue, "Marshland," making it the correct and concise answer.

The suffix "EST" is used in English to form the superlative degree of adjectives (e.g., "fastest," "strongest"). Superlatives indicate the highest or most extreme degree of a quality, making "EST" the perfect fit for the clue "Suffix for superlatives."

The answer "NTH" refers to an indefinite position in a series, often used mathematically or conceptually to represent an unspecified or arbitrary member of a sequence (e.g., 1st, 2nd, nth). It aligns perfectly with the clue "Unspecified member of a series."

The Aswan Dam, located in Aswan, Egypt, is one of the most famous dams on the Nile River. It was built to control flooding, provide irrigation, and generate hydroelectric power. This geographical location perfectly matches the clue "Nile dam," making ASWAN the correct answer.

A "triad" in music refers to a three-note chord made up of a root, third, and fifth. The clue "Triad, e.g." suggests an example of something a triad represents, which is a CHORD. This fits both the musical definition and the brevity typical of crossword answers.

The answer is COOPT because "assume" in this context means to take control of or appropriate something, often subtly or by inclusion. COOPT specifically means to take over or absorb something, aligning with this definition of "assume" in a figurative sense.

The answer is "RED" because it serves as a common descriptor for both "River" (as in the Red River, a well-known geographical feature) and "Rover" (as in the Red Rover game or a term for a vehicle, like the Mars rover, nicknamed for its reddish color).

The clue "Dummkopf" is a German word meaning "fool" or "idiot." In English slang, "ASS" is often used to describe someone acting foolishly or stupidly, aligning with the meaning of "Dummkopf." This makes "ASS" the fitting solution as a colloquial equivalent.

ESPNU is a channel dedicated to college sports, including N.C.A.A. games across various sports. The clue specifically references a "broadcaster" of N.C.A.A. games, directly aligning with ESPNU’s primary focus on collegiate athletics programming.

The clue "Called for quiet" suggests someone verbally instructing others to be silent. "SAID SHH" directly conveys this—someone literally saying "shh," a common way to hush or quiet others. The phrasing aligns with the verbal act of "calling for" silence, making SAIDSHH the perfect fit.

The clue "Penny ___ (miser)" plays on the phrase "penny pincher," which describes someone who is very frugal or miserly, showing extreme caution in spending money. "Pincher" completes the phrase, making it the correct answer. The word "miser" reinforces this thrifty behavior.

The answer is OLGA because it is a well-known lingerie brand and also a common Slavic name, giving it a “Slavic-sounding” association. The clue ties the brand to its name’s cultural origin, making OLGA the fitting solution.

The answer "ROMP" fits "Fun time" because "romp" refers to a lively, playful activity or frolic, often associated with carefree enjoyment. It directly conveys the sense of energetic fun and amusement implied by the clue.

The phrase "___ bon!" is in French, where "bon" means "good." The blank suggests a phrase completion. "Très" (meaning "very" in French) often precedes "bon" to mean "very good." Therefore, the answer "TRES" completes the French expression "Très bon!" correctly.

CBGB is the solution because it was a famous bygone music venue in New York City known for hosting punk and new wave acts. Its name, “CBGB,” stands for "Country, Bluegrass, Blues" (though it became iconic for punk), and the initials rhyme (“C” and “B” with “B” and “G”).

The answer is EAU because Eau Claire is a city in Wisconsin. "Eau" is the French word for "water," and the city’s name reflects its French heritage, meaning "Clear Water." This clue references the city directly, making EAU the appropriate solution.

The answer "EBSEN" refers to Buddy Ebsen, the actor who played Jed Clampett, the patriarch of the Clampett family in the classic TV sitcom The Beverly Hillbillies. The clue directly points to the actor's first name, making "EBSEN" the accurate solution.

The clue is a pun. A conchologist studies shells, so an "apt name" for one could be "Shel," as it sounds like "shell." The playful wordplay ties the science of shells to the name SHEL, making it a fitting answer.

The word "AURAL" relates specifically to the sense of hearing, which is directly associated with the ear. Since the clue "Ear-related" refers to something auditory or sound-based, "AURAL" is the precise and correct answer. It captures the connection to hearing perfectly.

The clue "Yank's Civil War foe" refers to the American Civil War. A "Yank" was a Union soldier, and their foe was a Confederate soldier. "Reb" is short for "Rebel," a common term used to describe Confederate soldiers during the war. Hence, the answer is REB.

The clue "What has flatter feet?" uses wordplay. An ode is a type of poem often written in irregular, less structured meter, referred to as "flatter feet" compared to more formal poetic structures. "Feet" here play on the poetic term for metrical units. Thus, the answer is ODE.

The phrase "Achieve success, so to speak" is a figurative clue. "Hit" is often used to describe something successful, such as a "hit song" or a "box-office hit." The phrase "so to speak" hints at this metaphorical use of "hit" to mean success.

The ERHU is a traditional Chinese string instrument, often called the "Chinese violin." It has two strings and is played with a bow. The clue directly describes its unique feature of having two strings, making ERHU the correct and precise answer.

The answer is ROAR because it describes the loud, rumbling noise made by a subway train as it approaches. This is an onomatopoeic term that mimics the sound itself, aligning perfectly with the clue's focus on a "sound."

The answer "ONCE" fits the clue "Start of a reminiscence" because many stories or memories begin with the phrase "Once upon a time," signaling the beginning of recalling a past event. "ONCE" serves as the classic starting point for such narratives, making it an apt solution.

The answer "SELF" works because it forms common phrases: "self-confidence" means belief in one's abilities, and "self-checkout" refers to automated systems in stores where you scan and pay by yourself. The word ties both "confidence" and "checkout" succinctly.

The clue "Do some roadwork on" refers to the process of constructing or repairing a road surface. The term "PAVE" directly means to lay asphalt, concrete, or another material for creating smooth roadways, making it a perfect match for the clue.

The answer "OBEAH" fits the clue "Folk religion akin to voodoo" because Obeah is a traditional spiritual practice originating in the Caribbean, similar to voodoo in its African roots and use of magic, healing, and rituals. Both focus on connections to ancestral and spiritual realms.

The answer "WARTORN" describes a place or condition devastated by war. The clue "Battered by battle" directly aligns with this, as "war-torn" literally means ravaged or deeply affected by war and battle, aptly fitting the descriptor in the clue.

In old Muslim palaces, "harems" referred to private areas reserved for women, typically wives and servants. The word comes from Arabic, meaning "forbidden" or "sacred," highlighting their exclusivity. The clue directly points to these historical women's spaces, making HAREMS the correct answer.

IMAGO is the biological term for the final, fully developed stage of an insect's life cycle after metamorphosis. This stage includes adults capable of reproduction, such as a butterfly emerging from its chrysalis. The clue directly describes this phase, making IMAGO the correct answer.

The phrase "No way, no how!" is an emphatic expression of refusal or impossibility. The answer, NOTONABET, is a colloquial way of saying "not even if I were betting," reinforcing an absolute rejection or denial. It aligns perfectly with the tone and meaning of the clue.

The clue "Neurosurgeons, e.g.: Abbr." asks for an abbreviation that represents what neurosurgeons are. Neurosurgeons are medical professionals, specifically doctors, and "DRS" is the standard abbreviation for "doctors." The "e.g." in the clue signals that neurosurgeons are an example of this broader category.

The answer is TONNE because it is the metric unit of weight equivalent to 1,000 kilograms. Unlike the imperial "ton," which varies in weight depending on the system (short ton or long ton), a tonne is a standardized metric measurement used globally.

The answer "KEY" refers to the section of a map that explains its symbols, colors, and markings. This explanatory section is often called a "legend," so "Map legend" cleverly points to "KEY." This is a literal clue without wordplay, directly linking to the map terminology.

The clue "Figs. related to car loans" refers to numerical figures associated with loans. APRS stands for Annual Percentage Rates, which are key figures in determining the cost of car loans, representing the yearly interest rate charged. "Figs." abbreviates "figures," matching the abbreviation "APRS."

The answer "BRAE" is a Scottish term for a hillside or slope, commonly used in Scottish English. This clue references Scotland specifically, guiding solvers to a regional word like "BRAE," which perfectly aligns with the hint "Scottish hill."

The answer "BEVY" fits because it means a large group or collection, particularly of people or things. While "big bunch" is informal and general, "bevy" is a more specific term often used to describe groups, making it a perfect synonym here.

The answer "ATEINTO" relates to "Eroded" as a figurative phrase. To "eat into" means to gradually wear away or erode something, aligning with the clue's meaning. This plays on the metaphorical idea of eating as a slow, destructive process, matching the context of erosion.

The answer "SNIT" refers to a state of irritation or a bad mood, often characterized by being pouty or sulky. The clue "Pouty mood" efficiently describes this emotional state, aligning with the brief, negative sulkiness implied by "snit."

STRATO refers to the stratosphere, a layer of Earth's atmosphere located above the troposphere. The clue asks for a "lead-in to sphere" specifically in the atmosphere, and "strato-" is a prefix directly associated with this atmospheric layer. Hence, STRATO is the fitting answer.

The clue "Hey! I know the answer!" is in quotes, signaling it represents a spoken expression. "OHOH" mimics an excited, sudden realization or exclamation someone might make when they figure something out, perfectly capturing the tone of the clue.

The answer is NINA because it's the name of one of the three ships Christopher Columbus used to cross the Atlantic in 1492, alongside the Pinta and the Santa Maria. These ships are famous for their role in his historic voyage to the Americas.

The sign "ON AIR" is commonly displayed outside a broadcast booth to indicate live recording or broadcasting is in progress. It alerts others to remain quiet and not disturb the transmission, making "ONAIR" the clear, straightforward answer to the clue.

The answer is GARTH because "Wayne's World" is a popular 1992 comedy movie and TV sketch featuring Wayne Campbell and his best friend, Garth Algar. Garth, played by Dana Carvey, is the iconic sidekick to Wayne, making him the correct solution to the clue.

The clue "Admit" can mean "to acknowledge" or "to recognize." In casual speech, "seein'" (a shorthand for "seeing") can be used to express realizing or admitting to something. It plays on conversational language, making "SEEIN" a fitting and informal solution for "Admit."

The answer "LAME" works because it is a common informal term used to describe something weak, unconvincing, or inadequate, like a poorly thought-out excuse. The clue directly connects this everyday usage of "lame" to describe something "really weak," making it the perfect fit.

The answer is DRE because "Beats by Dre" is a popular audio brand founded by Dr. Dre, the renowned music producer and rapper. The clue directly references the brand, making "DRE" the correct and straightforward solution.

The clue "They might be up in arms, informally" is a pun. "Up in arms" hints at something on one's arms, and the informal tone points to tattoos ("TATS"), which are often inked on arms. This playful wording leads to "TATS" as the solution.

The answer is ROWE because T. Rowe Price is a well-known investment management firm. The clue uses "T. ___ Price" to prompt you to complete the name of this financial institution, with "Rowe" being the missing part of its full name.

The answer "ELON" refers to Elon Musk, the CEO of Tesla. The "rueful bumper sticker" humorously implies regret about buying a Tesla before Elon Musk gained a reputation for eccentric or controversial behavior, making "Elon" the fitting name to complete the phrase.

The French term "né" means "born" and indicates someone's birth name. Muhammad Ali, the famous boxer, was born Cassius Clay. Therefore, the answer "ALI" refers to his later, chosen name after changing it from his birth name.

The dish "MUSHU pork" is a classic offering in Chinese cuisine, typically featuring stir-fried pork, vegetables, and egg, served with thin pancakes and hoisin sauce. The clue explicitly asks for a "dish in a Chinese restaurant," and MUSHU fits the blank perfectly as a recognized menu item.

The answer "IDYLL" fits because it refers to a short, descriptive piece of literature or poetry that often portrays pastoral or rustic life in an idealized, peaceful, and charming way. This aligns perfectly with the clue "Tale of rustic life."

The phrase "Veni, Vidi, Vici," meaning "I came, I saw, I conquered," is attributed to Julius Caesar. "Vidi" translates to "I saw" in Latin. Since the clue references Caesar's boast, the answer is ISAW, the English equivalent of "Vidi."

The answer "STAN" refers to Stan Freberg, a well-known American satirist, comedian, and voice actor. He was famous for his parody songs, comedy recordings, and advertising campaigns, making him a prominent figure in satire. The clue directly references his last name for identification.

The clue "You won't actually die of it" is a playful statement. While people often say they are "dying of boredom," it’s an exaggeration—a metaphor for extreme tedium. The pun-like phrasing of the clue hints at this figure of speech, making BOREDOM the fitting answer.

The clue "Rocks smelted to make steel" refers to the raw material used in steel production. Iron ore is a type of rock that contains iron compounds. When smelted, the iron is extracted and used to produce steel, making IRONORE the correct answer.

The clue references the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand, which directly triggered the start of World War I (WWI). The abbreviation "WWI" fits the requirement for brevity with "Abbr." in the clue, aligning it with the historic conflict mentioned.

The answer "NOE" refers to Noe Valley, a well-known neighborhood in San Francisco. It’s a family-friendly area named after José de Jesús Noé, the city's last Mexican mayor. The clue directly points to this geographically specific location, making "NOE" the correct answer.

Madrid is the capital of Spain, and in the Olympics, countries are represented by their three-letter country codes. The Olympic code for Spain is "ESP," derived from the Spanish word "España," meaning Spain. Thus, "ESP" signifies Madrid's land in this international context.

The answer "LANED" refers to the fact that Olympic swimming pools have marked lanes to separate swimmers during races. These lanes are created by lane dividers, ensuring organization and fairness. The clue describes this setup with the term "LANED."

The clue describes cars violating "No Parking" signs. When cars are improperly parked in restricted areas, they are often TOWED away as a consequence. The wording "Like some cars" indicates a condition they may end up in due to this violation, making TOWED the correct answer.

The clue "Vietnam's capital" is straightforward and refers to the principal city of Vietnam. Hanoi is the correct answer as it has been the capital of Vietnam since 1945, serving as the country's political and cultural center.

The clue "Old-fashioned 'your'" refers to archaic English. "Thine" is the possessive pronoun used in older English for "your" when preceding a vowel or functioning independently (e.g., "thine eyes"). It fits because it explicitly represents an old-fashioned form of "your."

The clue "Soldier for Attila" references Attila the Hun, the leader of the Huns, a nomadic warrior tribe in the 5th century. His soldiers were Huns, making "HUN" the correct answer. The clue directly ties Attila to his followers' identity.

In a deck of cards, "black suit" can refer to either spades or clubs, as these are the two suits colored black. The answer CLUBS fits because it’s a black suit in card games, matching the literal description in the clue.

The answer "HOMIE" fits as it’s a slang term for a close friend or "good pal," especially in informal or urban contexts. The clue uses casual language ("Good pal"), aligning perfectly with "HOMIE," a relatable and endearing term for companionship.

The clue "Out of gas" metaphorically means depleted, or without fuel. The synonym that fits this concept is "EMPTY," as an empty gas tank is literally out of gas, aligning perfectly with the clue's meaning.

The clue "Lip" refers to a form of disrespectful or cheeky speech, often called giving "lip" to someone. "SASS" is a synonym for impudent or saucy speech, making it the perfect answer for this clue. Both imply a bold, defiant attitude in dialogue.

"ALIT" fits the clue "Settled down, in a way" as it means "landed" or "came to rest," often used for something coming down gently, like a bird. The phrase "in a way" signals a figurative interpretation, which makes "ALIT" a valid answer for this clue.

The phrase "All the RAGE" is an idiom meaning something extremely popular or trendy at a given time. The clue uses the blank to prompt the completion of this familiar phrase, making "RAGE" the correct answer. This aligns with common language usage.

The answer "SINE" fits the clue "Kind of wave" because it refers to a sine wave, which is a mathematical curve representing smooth, periodic oscillations. Sine waves are fundamental in physics, engineering, and signal processing, making this a clear, logical answer to the clue.

The answer "DOE" fits because it refers to the traditional placeholder names "John Doe" or "Jane Doe," commonly used for unidentified or unnamed individuals in legal or informal contexts. It serves as a default last name when a real identity is unknown.

"Odd" can mean unusual or strange, aligning with the secondary meaning of "curious."

The clue "Ring result, in brief" refers to a boxing "ring," where matches occur. TKO stands for "technical knockout," a result where the referee stops the fight because one boxer cannot safely continue. The "in brief" indicates an abbreviation, making TKO the correct answer.

The answer "HID" works because "Secreted away" means to conceal or hide something. "HID" is the past tense of "hide," directly matching the clue's definition. It succinctly captures the act of having kept something out of sight or hidden away.

The answer is ELY because Ron Ely is an actor best known for portraying Tarzan in the 1960s television series Tarzan. The clue directly references his first name and his famous role, making Ron Ely the logical solution.

The clue "Two in Tijuana" includes a location in Mexico, signaling a Spanish connection. In Spanish, the number "two" is "dos." Therefore, the answer is DOS, which matches the language and numerical reference in the clue.