The answer is FIFE, a small, high-pitched flute often used in military bands. In Édouard Manet's painting The Fifer (also referred to as "Young Flautist"), the boy is depicted playing this instrument, making FIFE the correct solution for the clue.
5Threat to a king, maybePAWN????✨ See Why
The clue "Threat to a king, maybe?" uses wordplay. In chess, a pawn can threaten the king by advancing or attacking. The "maybe" indicates it's a possibility, not a certainty. This clever play connects "king" in chess with the potential threat of a pawn.
9Join up with at church?WED???✨ See Why
The clue "Join up with at church?" has a question mark, signaling wordplay. "Join up with" hints at forming a union, and "at church" suggests a wedding ceremony. "WED" is both a term for marriage (joining together) and an event often held at church, making it the fitting answer.
12Something that's often clickedICON????✨ See Why
The answer "ICON" fits because an icon is a graphical symbol on a computer or device screen, such as an app or folder, that users frequently click to open or interact with. The clue refers to a common digital action, making "ICON" the appropriate solution.
13Scout camp craftCANOE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Scout camp craft" refers to activities often learned or practiced at scout camps. Canoeing is a common outdoor activity and skill taught at such camps. The word "craft" also cleverly suggests both a skill and the physical canoe itself, making CANOE the fitting solution.
14Kerchak or Kala in Disney's "Tarzan"APE???✨ See Why
In Disney's Tarzan, Kerchak and Kala are gorillas, which are a type of ape. The clue directly refers to their species, making APE the correct and straightforward solution.
15"Sweet!"NEAT????✨ See Why
"Sweet!" in quotes signals a spoken exclamation. "Neat" is another exclamatory word often used to express enthusiasm, approval, or delight—similar to saying "Sweet!" in response to something exciting or impressive. Hence, NEAT fits perfectly as the answer.
16Frame, apron, molding, etc.WINDOWTRIM??????????✨ See Why
The clue lists parts like "frame," "apron," and "molding," which are architectural or decorative elements commonly associated with windows. Collectively, these components make up the "WINDOW TRIM," which is the decorative or functional finish around a window. The answer aptly describes the grouping of these elements.
18Maker of the world's largest quantum computerIBM???✨ See Why
IBM is the solution because it is a leading technology company known for pioneering quantum computing. IBM developed the IBM Quantum System One, which is recognized as one of the largest and most advanced quantum computers in the world, showcasing their dominance in this cutting-edge field.
19Put on TV againREAIR?????✨ See Why
The clue "Put on TV again" directly suggests showing something on television for a second time. "Re-" means "again," and "air" refers to broadcasting on TV. Combined, "REAIR" perfectly matches the definition of airing a program or segment again on television.
20___ Gabbard, the first Hindu member of CongressTULSI?????✨ See Why
The answer "TULSI" refers to Tulsi Gabbard, who made history as the first Hindu member of the United States Congress. She served as a Representative from Hawaii from 2013 to 2021. The blank before "Gabbard" directly points to her first name.
21Like some photos of yesteryearSEPIATONED??????????✨ See Why
The clue "Like some photos of yesteryear" refers to the nostalgic brownish tint often seen in old photographs. This is called a sepia tone, which was commonly used in early photography. "Sepia-toned" describes such photos, making SEPIATONED the correct answer for this clue.
24Pans' partnerPOTS????✨ See Why
The clue "Pans' partner" refers to the common household pairing of "pans" and "pots," as both are essential cookware often used together in kitchens. This straightforward relationship makes "POTS" the fitting answer.
25Trick-taking card gameHEARTS??????✨ See Why
HEARTS is a classic trick-taking card game where players aim to avoid certain penalty cards, particularly hearts and the queen of spades. The clue directly refers to its gameplay style, making it an accurate solution. HEARTS is widely recognized and fits the specific category mentioned in the clue.
26ClairvoyantORACLE??????✨ See Why
The answer "ORACLE" fits because a clairvoyant is someone believed to have prophetic insight or the ability to predict the future, much like an oracle in ancient times, who was consulted for divine guidance and predictions. The terms are synonymous in their connection to foresight or prophecy.
28Nutritional fig.RDA???✨ See Why
The clue "Nutritional fig." refers to a "figure" related to nutrition. RDA stands for "Recommended Dietary Allowance," which is a key nutritional figure indicating the daily level of nutrient intake considered sufficient to meet the needs of most healthy people. Hence, RDA fits perfectly.
29Collected hot wheels?CARJACKED?????????✨ See Why
The clue "Collected hot wheels?" is wordplay with a question mark. "Hot wheels" colloquially refers to cars, and "collected" suggests theft or taking. The term "CARJACKED" describes stealing a car, fitting the pun: someone "collected" a vehicle in a forceful way.
32Rocket ___, character in "Guardians of the Galaxy"RACCOON???????✨ See Why
The answer is RACCOON because Rocket Raccoon is a key character in the Marvel movie Guardians of the Galaxy. He is an intelligent, genetically modified raccoon who serves as the team's tech expert and weapons specialist. "Rocket ___" directly points to his name.
34Means of fiscal savingsBUDGETCUT?????????✨ See Why
The clue "Means of fiscal savings" hints at reducing expenses. A "budget cut" involves lowering a budget, directly leading to savings. The phrase fits both the financial context and the wordplay in the clue, as cutting a budget is a practical method of fiscal management.
38___ Hangtime (arcade classic)NBA???✨ See Why
The answer is NBA because "NBA Hangtime" is a classic arcade basketball video game. The NBA (National Basketball Association) is the league featured in the game, making it the perfect fit for this clue. The blank signals a title component, completed by "NBA."
41Parmesan shelfmateASIAGO??????✨ See Why
The clue "Parmesan shelfmate" refers to cheeses commonly found together. ASIAGO, like Parmesan, is an Italian cheese often used in similar culinary contexts. Both are hard, aged cheeses, making them "shelfmates" in stores or recipes, reinforcing ASIAGO as the correct answer.
42Cleans vigorouslySCOURS??????✨ See Why
The word "SCOURS" means to clean something thoroughly or vigorously, often by scrubbing hard. It perfectly fits the clue "Cleans vigorously" as it directly describes the intense cleaning action. This solution aligns with the straightforward and literal interpretation of the clue.
45Absolutely chew (out)REAM????✨ See Why
The phrase "Absolutely chew (out)" means to harshly scold or reprimand someone. "Ream" is a slang term that aligns with this meaning, often used to describe giving someone a severe verbal dressing-down or criticism. This matches the clue perfectly.
46What the glass slipper was on Cinderella's footPERFECTFIT??????????✨ See Why
The clue describes how the glass slipper uniquely fit Cinderella, symbolizing she was the only one it belonged to. "Perfect fit" conveys this idea literally and figuratively, as the slipper physically matched her foot perfectly and metaphorically confirmed her identity in the story.
50Sits on one's handsIDLES?????✨ See Why
The phrase "sits on one's hands" means to do nothing or remain inactive. "IDLES" aligns with this definition, as it refers to being still, unproductive, or not engaging in action—capturing the essence of inactivity conveyed by the clue.
52SeethesBOILS?????✨ See Why
The answer "BOILS" fits the clue "Seethes" because both words describe intense agitation or rage. Just as liquid "boils" when heated and becomes turbulent, a person "seethes" when overcome by anger or frustration, evoking similar imagery of bubbling intensity.
53Groovy, with "out"FAR???✨ See Why
The phrase "groovy, with 'out'" uses casual slang. "Far out" was a popular 1960s-70s expression meaning "cool" or "groovy." The answer "FAR" relates directly to this slang phrase, where "out" is implied, completing the sense of "groovy."
54Armchair athlete, e.g.SPORTSBUFF??????????✨ See Why
The term "Armchair athlete" refers to someone who avidly watches and discusses sports rather than participating in them. "SPORTSBUFF" fits as it describes someone deeply knowledgeable and passionate about sports—essentially an enthusiastic fan engaging from the comfort of their armchair. This play on words aligns perfectly with the clue.
56Knighted, one-named rock starBONO????✨ See Why
BONO is the answer because he is the one-named lead singer of the band U2 and a knighted figure. He was awarded an honorary knighthood by Queen Elizabeth II in 2007 for his contributions to music and philanthropy. His iconic single-name status matches the clue perfectly.
57Approximate weight of the Liberty BellTON???✨ See Why
The Liberty Bell weighs approximately 2,080 pounds, which is very close to one ton (2,000 pounds). Since "approximate" suggests a rounded figure, TON is the concise and accurate answer for its weight.
58Ring or rinkARENA?????✨ See Why
The answer "ARENA" works because both a "ring" (like in sports such as wrestling or boxing) and a "rink" (like for hockey or skating) are types of arenas—enclosed venues for events or competitions. The clue connects these terms through this shared meaning.
59Beethoven's birthplaceBONN????✨ See Why
The answer is BONN because Ludwig van Beethoven, the famed German composer, was born in Bonn, Germany, in 1770. This straightforward clue references a factual connection between Beethoven and the city where his life began.
60Broke breadATE???✨ See Why
The clue "Broke bread" uses the phrase metaphorically, meaning “shared a meal.” The answer, ATE, directly relates to the action of consuming food, which one does when sharing a meal or “breaking bread” with others. Thus, ATE perfectly fits the context of the clue.
61Newsman ChuckTODD????✨ See Why
The answer "TODD" refers to Chuck Todd, a well-known journalist and former moderator of NBC's political talk show Meet the Press. The clue directly points to this specific newsman, making "TODD" the correct solution.
62What's the catch?SNAG????✨ See Why
The clue "What's the catch?" ends with a question mark, signaling wordplay. "Catch" can mean a problem or obstacle, often called a "snag" in conversational English. A "snag" is also literally something that can catch or impede progress, making it a fitting answer.
Down
1With 44-Down, go out with a bang ... or a hint to 16-, 21-, 29-, 34-, 46- and 54-AcrossFINISH??????✨ See Why
The answer "FINISH" works because each referenced phrase (16-, 21-, 29-, 34-, 46-, and 54-Across) ends with a word synonymous with "bang" or a notable "end." "With 44-Down" ties to the pun or thematic connection about "going out with a bang."
2Brew that generally has a higher-than-usual alcohol contentICEBEER???????✨ See Why
ICEBEER is the solution because ice beer undergoes a process called fractional freezing, where water is removed as ice, concentrating the alcohol content. This results in a brew with a higher-than-usual alcohol percentage, fitting the clue's description perfectly. The "brew" hint directly refers to beer.
3Soft mattress topperFOAMPAD???????✨ See Why
The clue "Soft mattress topper" directly describes a FOAMPAD. Foam pads are widely used as soft, cushioned layers placed on mattresses to enhance comfort. The "soft" relates to the foam material's texture, making FOAMPAD a straightforward and fitting solution.
4Fangorn Forest denizenENT???✨ See Why
The answer "ENT" refers to tree-like creatures from J.R.R. Tolkien’s "The Lord of the Rings" series. Fangorn Forest is home to the Ents, led by Treebeard. The word "denizen" indicates a resident or inhabitant, fitting the Ents as guardians of this mystical forest.
5Get a closer shotPANIN?????✨ See Why
The clue "Get a closer shot?" uses wordplay, indicated by the question mark. PANIN refers to the action of "panning in" with a camera to zoom or move closer to a subject for a better/closer shot. It’s a clever play on filming or photography terminology.
6Tennis's AgassiANDRE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Tennis's Agassi" refers to the famous retired tennis player André Agassi. His first name, ANDRE, is the solution. As a multiple Grand Slam champion and a prominent figure in tennis history, his name is well recognized in crossword puzzles.
7Try to winWOO???✨ See Why
The answer "WOO" fits because to "woo" someone means to try to win their favor, affection, or support, often romantically or persuasively. This aligns with the clue, which suggests an effort to win over someone or something.
8Wetland creatureNEWT????✨ See Why
The answer "NEWT" fits because newts are amphibians commonly found in wetland habitats like marshes, ponds, and damp forested areas. They thrive in such environments due to their semi-aquatic nature, making "Wetland creature" an accurate descriptor for them.
9Dark wizardWARLOCK???????✨ See Why
The answer "WARLOCK" fits because it refers to a male practitioner of magic, often associated with dark or sinister powers. The term historically connotes someone dealing in black magic, aligning perfectly with the clue "Dark wizard." It’s a straightforward definition-based clue.
10Romans, e.g.EPISTLE???????✨ See Why
The clue "Romans, e.g." refers to one of the books in the New Testament of the Bible, written as a letter by the Apostle Paul. These letters are commonly called epistles. "Romans" is an example of such an epistle, making the answer EPISTLE.
11Transferred at deathDEMISED???????✨ See Why
The term "demised" refers to the transfer of property, especially in legal contexts, often through a lease or upon someone's death. Here, "Transferred at death" signals that property or rights were passed on posthumously, aligning with "demised" as a legal or formal term.
13Word that means both "hello" and "goodbye"CIAO????✨ See Why
The solution is CIAO because it is a common Italian word used to greet someone when arriving ("hello") and parting ("goodbye"). The dual meaning matches the clue perfectly. Its widespread adoption in other languages also makes it recognizable in this dual usage.
16Licks, sayWETS????✨ See Why
The clue "Licks, say" uses wordplay. "Licks" can mean moistening, which connects to "wets." For example, to "lick" something with your tongue is to wet it. The "say" suggests an interpretation or synonym for the action, making "WETS" the fitting answer.
17Rap star who called himself "Makaveli"TUPAC?????✨ See Why
The answer is TUPAC because Tupac Shakur, a legendary rapper, adopted the alias "Makaveli" inspired by Niccolò Machiavelli, an Italian philosopher known for his strategies on power. Tupac used this name for his posthumous album The Don Killuminati: The 7 Day Theory, further cementing the connection.
19Lab course participant?RAT???✨ See Why
The clue "Lab course participant?" uses a pun. "Lab" refers both to a laboratory and a Labrador dog. A RAT is commonly used in laboratories as a subject for experiments, making it a fitting "participant" in a lab setting. The question mark hints at the wordplay.
22___ Flatow, longtime host of public radio's "Science Friday"IRA???✨ See Why
The answer is IRA because Ira Flatow is the longtime host of the public radio program "Science Friday." He is a well-known science journalist who has hosted the show since its inception, making "IRA" the fitting solution to this clue.
23Sensei's schoolDOJO????✨ See Why
"Sensei" is a Japanese term for teacher, commonly associated with martial arts instructors. A "dojo" is the Japanese word for a training hall or school where martial arts are practiced under the guidance of a sensei, making DOJO the fitting answer here.
27Didn't stick around, sayRAN???✨ See Why
The clue "Didn't stick around, say" hints at someone leaving or departing quickly. "Ran" fits as it's a past tense action of moving quickly to leave or escape, implying not staying or lingering in a place. The "say" suggests figurative language.
29New Deal program in which workers planted more than 3.5 billion trees, in briefCCC???✨ See Why
CCC stands for the Civilian Conservation Corps, a New Deal program established in 1933. Its purpose was to create jobs for young men during the Great Depression, including planting over 3.5 billion trees to combat deforestation and erosion, aligning perfectly with the clue's description.
30Prefix with pressureACU???✨ See Why
The prefix "ACU" relates to "pressure" as seen in "acupressure," a therapeutic technique similar to acupuncture, where pressure is applied to specific points on the body for healing. The clue points to this common word formation, making ACU the correct answer.
31BunkROT???✨ See Why
The clue "Bunk" refers to nonsense or something of little value, which aligns with the definition of "ROT." "Bunk" is often used informally to describe absurd or worthless ideas, just as "ROT" can describe foolish talk or nonsense. Hence, ROT is the fitting answer.
32Issuance from a govt. agencyREG???✨ See Why
The answer "REG" refers to a regulation, which is a common type of issuance or directive formally released by a government agency to enforce or clarify laws or policies. The clue’s phrasing points to an official document or rule, which aligns with "REG."
33OnATOP????✨ See Why
The clue "On" refers to being positioned or placed above something. "ATOP" specifically means "on top of" or "upon," which directly aligns with the meaning of the word "on" in this context, making it the correct answer.
34Grounds keeper?BARISTA???????✨ See Why
The clue "Grounds keeper?" uses a pun with "grounds." Coffee grounds are the key hint here, and a BARISTA is someone who works with coffee, preparing and serving it. They "keep" the grounds as part of their job, thus making BARISTA a fitting answer.
35Took a hit, sayUSEDPOT???????✨ See Why
The clue "Took a hit, say" has a playful, pun-like angle (noted by the question mark). "Took a hit" refers to drug use, specifically smoking marijuana, which can involve a pot (slang for cannabis). "Used pot" cleverly combines this meaning, making it the fitting solution.
36Start a long-distance call, in bygone daysDIALONE???????✨ See Why
The answer "DIALONE" refers to the outdated practice of starting a long-distance call by dialing the digit "1" on a landline phone. The phrase "in bygone days" emphasizes this now-obsolete method, as modern systems no longer require this step for domestic long-distance calls in most cases.
37Controller controllerGAMER?????✨ See Why
The clue "Controller controller?" uses wordplay with a question mark, hinting at a playful twist. A "controller" typically refers to a gaming device, and the person who controls it is a GAMER. Hence, a GAMER is the "controller" of a gaming controller.
38"___ to worry …"NOT???✨ See Why
The clue "___ to worry …" is a conversational phrase often completed as "Not to worry …," reassuring someone there's no need for concern. The blank signals a missing word, and "Not" fits naturally, completing the commonly used expression.
39GoofballBUFFOON???????✨ See Why
The clue "Goofball" is a straightforward definition clue, asking for a synonym. A "goofball" refers to someone silly or foolish, often acting clownishly or lacking seriousness. The word "BUFFOON" perfectly matches this definition, as it describes a ridiculous or amusingly foolish person.
40Huffington of The Huffington PostARIANNA???????✨ See Why
The clue references Arianna Huffington, the co-founder and namesake of The Huffington Post, a prominent news and blog site. Her first name, ARIANNA, directly matches the clue and serves as the solution. This is a straightforward proper noun clue, signaling her identity.
42Condé Nast women's magazineSELF????✨ See Why
The answer "SELF" refers to SELF magazine, a women's magazine published by Condé Nast. The magazine focuses on health, wellness, fitness, and personal growth, aligning with the clue's reference to Condé Nast's portfolio of publications. It's a straightforward clue pointing to a specific title.
43Adds as a secondary recipient, for shortCCS???✨ See Why
The answer "CCS" refers to the function in emails where you "carbon copy" someone as a secondary recipient. "Adds as a secondary recipient" describes this action, and "for short" signals the abbreviation, "CC," commonly used in email communication.
44See 1-DownSTRONG??????✨ See Why
To understand why STRONG is the answer, refer to the clue at 1-Down, which provides the full context. Crossword clues referencing other entries (e.g., "See 1-Down") require solving the primary clue first. STRONG likely complements or completes the phrase or idea introduced in 1-Down.
47RecededEBBED?????✨ See Why
The clue "Receded" implies a movement backward or away. "Ebb" is a term often used to describe the receding motion of tides. When tides "recede," they "ebb." In past tense, this becomes "EBBED," perfectly matching the clue as both are synonyms referring to something retreating or diminishing.
48Like some tables and tripsROUND?????✨ See Why
The answer "ROUND" fits because it describes characteristics of both "tables" and "trips." Some tables, like dining or coffee tables, are physically round in shape. "Trips" can be described as round when they involve a return to the starting point, e.g., a round trip.
49Org. that oversees the World CupFIFA????✨ See Why
The answer is FIFA because it stands for "Fédération Internationale de Football Association," the international governing body responsible for organizing the FIFA World Cup, the premier tournament in soccer. The clue's reference to "Org." directly indicates an organization, making FIFA the fitting solution.
51"Pronto!"STAT????✨ See Why
The clue "Pronto!" is enclosed in quotes, indicating it's a spoken or exclamatory phrase. "Stat" is commonly used in medical and urgent contexts to mean "immediately" or "at once," aligning perfectly with the urgency conveyed by "Pronto!" Therefore, STAT is the fitting answer.
55Packed house lettersSRO???✨ See Why
SRO stands for "Standing Room Only," a term used for events or performances where all seats are filled, and the venue is so packed that only standing space remains. These letters succinctly represent a "packed house," fitting the clue perfectly.
56Airsoft gun ammoBBS???✨ See Why
The answer "BBS" fits because Airsoft guns often use BB pellets as ammunition. BBs are small, round projectiles, typically made of plastic or metal, that are specifically designed for Airsoft use. The clue directly relates to this type of ammo, making "BBS" the correct solution.
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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.