The answer "BILLYGOAT" refers to the classic fairy tale "Three Billy Goats Gruff," where a troll guards a bridge and targets the billy goats trying to cross it. The "troll" in the clue cleverly points to this well-known story, making BILLYGOAT the correct answer.
10Prized steedARAB????✨ See Why
The answer "ARAB" refers to the Arabian horse, a highly prized breed of steed known for its beauty, endurance, and historical significance in equestrian culture. Arabian horses are often celebrated as one of the most esteemed and sought-after horse breeds in the world.
14Little hellionsIMPS????✨ See Why
The term "Little hellions" refers to mischievous or naughty children, which aligns with the definition of "IMPS." Imps are traditionally small, playful, and troublemaking creatures in folklore, making it a fitting synonym for this clue.
18Hard to understandCLEARASMUD??????????✨ See Why
The clue "Hard to understand" signals wordplay. "Clear as mud" is a humorous, ironic phrase meaning something is not clear at all—essentially the opposite of clear. This pun aligns perfectly with the clue, making CLEARASMUD the fitting solution.
20Latvian capitalRIGA????✨ See Why
The clue "Latvian capital" is asking for the capital city of Latvia. The answer is RIGA, which is the largest city and political, cultural, and economic hub of Latvia. No wordplay is present here; this is a straightforward geographical fact.
21Kindle competitorNOOK????✨ See Why
The answer is NOOK because it is a specific brand of e-reader produced by Barnes & Noble, serving as a direct competitor to Amazon's Kindle. Both devices are used for reading digital books, making NOOK the logical solution for "Kindle competitor."
22CLASSYMATEY???????????✨ See Why
“Classy matey” adds two Ys to classmate, turning a school companion into a pirate with refined taste. The “sailor” and “grog” hint at the nautical matey slang, while “classy” winks at sophistication — a fun play on opposites that elevates an everyday classmate to an elegant buccaneer.
24GOODYCOPY?????????✨ See Why
Add two Ys to good cop and you get goody copy, a counterfeit candy instead of a clean officer. The pun swaps moral goodness for sugary mischief, while “copy” keeps its sense of imitation. A sweet spin on law and order!
26ID on a credit checkSSN???✨ See Why
The clue "ID on a credit check" points to SSN because a Social Security Number is a key form of identification used by lenders to verify identity and assess credit history during a credit check. It uniquely identifies an individual in financial and credit-related contexts.
27End-of-level showdownBOSSFIGHT?????????✨ See Why
In video games, an "End-of-level showdown" typically refers to a challenging confrontation with a powerful opponent, often called a "boss." This is commonly known as a "BOSS FIGHT." The clue directly hints at this gaming term, making it the perfect solution!
29"When in the ___ of human events ..."COURSE??????✨ See Why
The phrase "When in the course of human events" is the opening line of the U.S. Declaration of Independence. "Course" refers to the progression or sequence of events. The clue directly draws from this historical document, making COURSE the correct answer.
30BridgesSPANS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Bridges" refers to the structural feature of a bridge—it "spans" a distance, such as a river or gap, connecting two points. This dual meaning ties the clue to the noun and verb uses of "span," fitting perfectly as the solution.
32Vote forYEA???✨ See Why
The answer "YEA" fits as it is a term used in formal voting, meaning "yes" or agreement. The clue "Vote for" directly refers to this expression of support, often heard in legislative or organizational decision-making processes. It's concise and aligns with the crossword clue style.
33Paint carelesslyDAUB????✨ See Why
The word "DAUB" means to apply or smear paint or a substance clumsily or carelessly, which matches the clue's description of painting in a sloppy or careless manner. It's a direct connection between the definition of the word and the clue provided.
34Alternative to kaleCHARD?????✨ See Why
CHARD is the answer because it, like kale, is a leafy green vegetable often used in cooking, salads, or as a healthy alternative. Both are nutrient-rich greens, making CHARD a logical "alternative to kale" in recipes or diets. The clue points to a similar category of food.
35Projectionist's itemFILMREEL????????✨ See Why
A projectionist operates film projectors, which traditionally use film reels to display movies. A film reel is a circular spool that holds the physical film strip, making it essential to the projection process. The clue directly points to this central tool of their work, making FILMREEL the fitting answer.
38"If you ask me nicely …"IMAY????✨ See Why
The clue "If you ask me nicely …" suggests a polite or hesitant response. The phrase "I MAY" reflects this tone, indicating a tentative agreement or willingness, which fits the context of a courteous request. The ellipsis adds to the gradual, unsure tone, reinforcing "IMAY" as the answer.
42Game with players known as "shooters"CRAPS?????✨ See Why
In CRAPS, a popular dice game, players roll dice to determine outcomes. The main player rolling the dice is called the "shooter." The clue plays on this by referencing this term, making CRAPS the fitting solution for "Game with players known as 'shooters'."
43HANDYBELLY??????????✨ See Why
Add Ys to handbell and you get handy belly — a silly, cozy phrase that perfectly fits “a convenient spot for a cat nap.” Cats love curling up on laps or stomachs, so a “handy belly” sounds like just the right resting place. The clue purrs with domestic humor.
45Singer RitaORA???✨ See Why
The answer "ORA" refers to Rita Ora, a well-known British singer, songwriter, and actress. She gained fame with hits like "How We Do (Party)" and "Your Song." The clue directly hints at her first name, making ORA the correct solution.
46SHAKA?????✨ See Why
The answer is SHAKA because the "shaka" is a well-known hand gesture in Hawaii, symbolizing aloha, goodwill, and friendship. It’s made by extending the thumb and pinky while curling the other fingers. This gesture is iconic and widely recognized as a cultural symbol of Hawaii.
47"Darn it!"DANG????✨ See Why
The clue "Darn it!" in quotes signals a spoken exclamation. "Darn" and "dang" are interchangeable mild expressions of frustration or annoyance, making "DANG" a fitting synonym and the correct answer. The informal tone matches the clue’s style.
481950s political nicknameIKE???✨ See Why
"IKE" was the widely known nickname for Dwight D. Eisenhower, the 34th U.S. president, whose terms were in the 1950s (1953-1961). Popular campaign slogans like "I Like Ike" made the nickname iconic during this era, making "IKE" synonymous with 1950s politics.
49WildAMUCK?????✨ See Why
The answer "AMUCK" fits because it means acting wildly or uncontrollably, aligning with the clue "Wild." The word describes chaotic or frenzied behavior, directly matching the clue’s intent without wordplay or additional hints. It's a straightforward definition-based match.
51The 4,765-year-old "Methuselah" is onePINE????✨ See Why
The 4,765-year-old "Methuselah" is a famous Bristlecone Pine, known as one of the oldest living trees on Earth. The clue refers to this specific tree, making PINE the correct answer. The name "Methuselah" symbolizes longevity, aligning with this ancient tree species.
52ZilchNADA????✨ See Why
The clue "Zilch" refers to the concept of "nothing" or "zero." "Nada" is a Spanish word meaning "nothing," making it a fitting synonym for "zilch." There’s no additional wordplay here—just a straightforward connection between the clue and the answer.
53Prominent feature of dubstep musicBASS????✨ See Why
Dubstep music is characterized by heavy, rhythmic basslines and deep sub-bass frequencies, which are integral to its sound. The "prominent feature" in the clue points to this defining element of the genre, making BASS the correct answer.
55Wrap up tightSWATHE??????✨ See Why
The answer "SWATHE" means to wrap, bind, or envelop something snugly, often with fabric or material, which aligns perfectly with the clue "Wrap up tight." The definition fits the clue literally, making it the correct and logical solution.
56Press coverageINK???✨ See Why
The clue "Press coverage" uses wordplay: "Press" refers to printing or journalism, and "coverage" suggests material used in printing. The solution, INK, fits as it is the substance used in printing presses to cover paper, directly connecting to the idea of press coverage.
57ScorchingOVERHOT???????✨ See Why
The answer "OVERHOT" fits "Scorching" as it directly describes something excessively or overly hot. The prefix "OVER-" denotes an extreme or excess, aligning with the intensity suggested by "Scorching," which implies extreme heat rather than just warmth. It's a literal and straightforward synonym.
59Agent's good newsITSAHIT???????✨ See Why
The clue "Agent's good news" suggests a positive outcome for an agent, often related to entertainment or creative industries. When a project (like a song, movie, or book) becomes highly successful, people exclaim, "It's a hit!" This phrase aligns perfectly with the clue’s context and tone.
60Cryptographers' needsKEYS????✨ See Why
The answer "KEYS" relates to cryptography because encryption and decryption often require cryptographic keys—specific pieces of information used to encode or decode data securely. Cryptographers rely on these keys to protect sensitive information and ensure secure communication.
62FORTYWORTHY???????????✨ See Why
By adding two Ys to Fort Worth, we get Forty Worthy, which cheekily redefines the Texas city as something “suitable for the middle-aged.” The wordplay rides on the phrase “over forty” and on “worthy,” turning a place name into a witty age joke.
65"Oh, dear!"MYMY????✨ See Why
The clue "Oh, dear!" in quotes indicates a spoken or exclamatory phrase. "MYMY" is a doubling of the interjection "my," often expressing surprise or concern, much like "Oh, dear!" in tone and context. It matches the emotional nuance perfectly.
66Flies the coopESCAPES???????✨ See Why
The phrase "Flies the coop" is an idiom meaning to escape or flee, often used to describe someone or something leaving unexpectedly or breaking free of confinement, akin to a bird escaping a coop. Thus, the answer "ESCAPES" aligns perfectly with this meaning.
68Pain-relieving drugDEMEROL???????✨ See Why
DEMEROL is the brand name for meperidine, a synthetic opioid pain medication widely used for moderate to severe pain relief. It fits the clue "Pain-relieving drug" directly as it specifically addresses its function and is a well-known pharmaceutical name.
69The Chiffons' "___ So Fine"HES???✨ See Why
The Chiffons' 1963 hit song is titled "He's So Fine," where "He's" forms the missing word in the clue. The clue quotes the song title, signaling a direct reference to its lyrics. Thus, "HES" completes the phrase.
70Knitted capBEANIE??????✨ See Why
A "BEANIE" is a snug, close-fitting knitted cap often made of wool or similar materials. The clue "Knitted cap" directly describes this type of hat, making BEANIE the appropriate answer.
71Pop icon with a Best Actress awardCHER????✨ See Why
The answer is CHER because she is both a legendary pop icon and an Academy Award-winning actress. Cher won the Best Actress Oscar in 1988 for her role in Moonstruck, making her a rare performer celebrated in both music and acting.
73Huff and puff?VAPE????✨ See Why
The question mark in "Huff and puff?" signals wordplay. "VAPE" cleverly fits since vaping involves inhaling and exhaling vapor, mimicking "huffing and puffing." It’s a modern activity aligning with the playful pun in the clue.
74"Look what I did!"TADA????✨ See Why
The clue "Look what I did!" is enclosed in quotes, indicating a spoken phrase. "TADA" is a common exclamation used to draw attention to an accomplishment or reveal something with excitement, perfectly matching the celebratory tone of the clue.
75BewilderedATSEA?????✨ See Why
The answer "ATSEA" fits "Bewildered" because it metaphorically describes a state of confusion, much like being lost or adrift at sea. It plays on the imagery of being directionless or unsure, making it a clever figurative match for the clue.
76Polynesian staplePOI???✨ See Why
POI is the solution because it is a traditional Polynesian dish made from the fermented root of the taro plant, a staple food in Hawaiian and other Polynesian cultures. Its cultural and dietary significance makes it a classic "staple" in the region.
77Twisted doLOCS????✨ See Why
The clue "Twisted do?" signals wordplay or a pun. Here, "do" refers to a hairstyle, and "twisted" hints at the styling technique. LOCS are a type of twisted or coiled hairstyle, often associated with dreadlocks or similar styles. Thus, LOCS fits perfectly.
78Global currency market, for shortFOREX?????✨ See Why
FOREX is short for "foreign exchange," the global market where currencies are traded. This aligns perfectly with "Global currency market, for short," as the FOREX market facilitates currency trading worldwide. The clue specifies the abbreviated form, matching the concise answer.
79Martial artist BruceLEE???✨ See Why
The answer "LEE" refers to Bruce Lee, the iconic martial artist, actor, and filmmaker known for his profound influence on martial arts and action films. The clue directly points to his first name, "Bruce," and his fame as a martial artist makes "LEE" an obvious and fitting solution.
80FISHYHOOKY??????????✨ See Why
Start with fish hook and add two Ys to make fishy hooky. The clue ties “hooky” (playing truant) with “fishy” (suspicious), creating a comical excuse — maybe that student’s “gone fishing” wasn’t so innocent after all!
84Taps on the snootBOOPS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Taps on the snoot" uses playful wordplay. "Snoot" is a slang term for a nose or face, often associated with animals. "Boops" refers to the light, affectionate taps people give on an animal's nose.
85PlacesLAYS????✨ See Why
The clue "Places" can be interpreted as a verb. "LAYS" means to place or set something down, aligning with the clue’s phrasing. This simple, present-tense definition matches the verb usage implied, making "LAYS" the correct answer.
87SnuggleCANOODLE????????✨ See Why
The clue "Snuggle" can imply intimate or affectionate behavior. "Canoodle" specifically refers to cuddling or engaging in flirtatious physical affection, making it a playful and fitting synonym for "snuggle." The connection lies in their shared meaning of closeness and tenderness.
88Stooge who said "Soitenly!"CURLY?????✨ See Why
The answer is CURLY because it refers to Curly Howard, one of the Three Stooges, known for his comedic style and exaggerated speech patterns. "Soitenly!" is a playful mispronunciation of "Certainly!"—a signature phrase often delivered by Curly in the Stooges' routines.
89PosesASKS????✨ See Why
The clue "Poses" suggests an action, such as posing a question or seeking information. In this context, "poses" can mean "asks" as in asking a question or posing an inquiry. The wordplay interprets "poses" figuratively as making requests or inquiries, leading to the solution ASKS.
91"What's up, ___?"DOC???✨ See Why
The clue "What's up, ___?" is a direct reference to Bugs Bunny's famous catchphrase, "What's up, Doc?" Here, "Doc" is used as a casual way to address someone. The quotation marks in the clue signal that the answer is a spoken phrase or word.
92Wise guysSAGES?????✨ See Why
The clue "Wise guys" uses wordplay, as "wise" refers to wisdom, not cunning or trickery. SAGES are individuals known for their wisdom and knowledge, fitting this clue perfectly. The plural "guys" matches "sages," emphasizing multiple wise individuals. Thus, SAGES is the most fitting solution.
93Crudely built shackSHANTY??????✨ See Why
The clue "Crudely built shack" directly defines a SHANTY, which refers to a poorly constructed or makeshift shelter. The word "crudely" emphasizes the basic, rough, or improvised nature of the structure, aligning perfectly with the definition of SHANTY.
96Purple fruit with a distinctive inner shapeSTARAPPLE?????????✨ See Why
The answer "STARAPPLE" refers to a tropical purple fruit with a star-shaped pattern inside when sliced crosswise. The "distinctive inner shape" in the clue directly points to this unique feature, while "purple fruit" describes its outer appearance, making it a perfect fit for the solution.
99Barista or barristerJOB???✨ See Why
The clue "Barista or barrister" features a pun. Both roles refer to occupations—a barista makes coffee, and a barrister is a lawyer. This clue employs wordplay, guiding you to their commonality: they are types of jobs. Thus, the solution is JOB.
102COCKYPITY?????????✨ See Why
Two Ys turn cockpit into cocky pity, the tone behind a snarky, condescending remark like “How sad. You actually think you can win.” It’s pity delivered with arrogance, or arrogance pretending to be pity.
104STEAMYIRONY???????????✨ See Why
Add two Ys to steam iron and you get steamy irony — perfectly capturing a locksmith trapped in handcuffs: both hot (steamy) and ironic. The clue’s wink at innuendo matches the wordplay’s layered humor.
107Present opener?OMNI????✨ See Why
The clue "Present opener?" with a question mark signals wordplay. "Present" can refer to "omnipresent," meaning present everywhere. The prefix "omni-" means "all" or "everywhere," acting as the "opener" for "omnipresent." Thus, OMNI is a fitting and clever answer.
108Unlike a cover: Abbr.ORIG????✨ See Why
The clue "Unlike a cover: Abbr." suggests something original, as opposed to a "cover," which is a reimagined version of something like a song or work. "ORIG" is the abbreviation for "original," making it the correct answer. The abbreviation fits the clue’s format.
109Something parents may try to limit for their kidsSCREENTIME??????????✨ See Why
The answer is SCREENTIME because parents often try to control the amount of time their children spend using electronic devices like phones, tablets, or TVs. Excessive screen time can impact health or behavior, making it something parents aim to limit for balance and well-being.
110See 95-DownTEEN????✨ See Why
This clue explicitly points to the age group most affected by the stressor in 95-Down (ACNE). By referencing 95-Down, it signals that the answer is a demographic rather than a tangible object, emphasizing that TEENs are the typical sufferers of this common condition.
111Creole stapleOKRA????✨ See Why
OKRA is a common ingredient in Creole cuisine, often used in dishes like gumbo. Known for its thickening properties and distinct flavor, it is a staple in the Southern and Creole culinary tradition, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Creole staple."
112In which actors barely go through the motions?SEXSCENES?????????✨ See Why
The clue uses a pun. In "sex scenes," actors simulate intimate actions without actual engagement ("barely go through the motions"). The word "barely" also adds a double meaning, hinting at nudity often involved in such scenes, tying cleverly to the answer.
Down
1Surreptitiously loops in, for shortBCCS????✨ See Why
The answer "BCCS" refers to "blind carbon copies," a function in email that allows someone to send the same message to others without revealing their identities to the primary recipient. This action is "surreptitious" as it keeps the additional recipients hidden, aligning perfectly with the clue.
2TroublesILLS????✨ See Why
The answer "ILLS" works because "troubles" and "ills" are synonyms. Both refer to problems, difficulties, or afflictions in a metaphorical or literal sense. The clue does not include wordplay, so this is a straightforward definition-based connection.
3Low-fatLEAN????✨ See Why
The answer "LEAN" connects to "Low-fat" because "lean" describes meat with little to no fat content. It also extends metaphorically to things with reduced excess, aligning directly with the definition of low-fat. It’s a concise, straightforward synonym.
4___ AméricasLAS???✨ See Why
The clue "___ Américas" includes the Spanish article "Las," which translates to "The" in English. "Las Américas" (The Americas) is a common phrase in Spanish, referring to the continents of North and South America collectively. Thus, the correct answer is "LAS."
5Many, many mos.YRS???✨ See Why
"Many, many mos." is short for "many, many months." Since there are 12 months in a year, the answer "YRS" (years) represents multiple months summed up into years. The use of "mos." as an abbreviation hints that the answer is also abbreviated.
6Venues like New York City's Stonewall InnGAYBARS???????✨ See Why
The Stonewall Inn is a historic LGBTQ+ landmark and a significant location in the fight for LGBTQ+ rights. It is a type of gay bar, which are venues that cater primarily to the LGBTQ+ community. Hence, "GAYBARS" fits the clue as venues like Stonewall Inn.
7Donny or MarieOSMOND??????✨ See Why
The answer is OSMOND because Donny and Marie Osmond are siblings and members of the famous Osmond family, known for their music and entertainment careers. The clue directly refers to either sibling, making OSMOND the shared last name and accurate solution.
8StockpileAMASS?????✨ See Why
The word "Stockpile" means to gather or accumulate something in large quantities, which aligns with the definition of AMASS. AMASS refers to collecting or piling up items (e.g., resources or goods), perfectly matching the clue's intent.
9Light rebukesTUTS????✨ See Why
The clue "Light rebukes" refers to gentle or mild scoldings. "TUTS" captures this idea as it represents the sound "tut-tut," often used to express mild disapproval or a soft reprimand, fitting the idea of a "light" rebuke.
10"For crying out loud!"ARGH????✨ See Why
The clue is in quotes, indicating the answer represents a spoken exclamation. "For crying out loud!" expresses frustration or annoyance, and ARGH is a common verbal outburst conveying such emotions, matching the tone and context of the clue perfectly.
11HootRIOT????✨ See Why
The clue "Hoot" uses wordplay as it's short and playful. "Hoot" informally means something hilarious or uproarious, which matches "RIOT," another term for something or someone extremely funny. This synonym fits perfectly in tone and meaning for the clue.
12BeforeAGO???✨ See Why
The clue "Before" refers to something in the past. The word "AGO" is commonly used to specify how long before something happened, e.g., "years ago." Thus, "AGO" effectively captures the idea of something occurring earlier in time or "before."
13Referee's mistakeBADCALL???????✨ See Why
The clue "Referee's mistake" directly leads to BADCALL because a "bad call" is a common term in sports, referring to an incorrect or unfair decision made by a referee during a game. It matches the definition while being a familiar phrase.
14Nighttime demonsINCUBI??????✨ See Why
The answer "INCUBI" refers to male demons in folklore and mythology that are said to visit people, particularly women, in their sleep, often causing distress or nightmares. The plural "INCUBI" fits with "demons" in the plural form, explaining the term as "nighttime demons."
15"Wuthering Heights" settingMOOR????✨ See Why
The answer is MOOR because "Wuthering Heights," Emily Brontë's classic novel, is set on the Yorkshire moors, characterized by their wild, open, and rugged landscapes. The moors play a central role in establishing the novel's atmospheric, dramatic, and windswept setting.
16Is visually strikingPOPS????✨ See Why
The answer "POPS" fits because when something "pops," it grabs attention or visually stands out, making it striking. The term is often used to describe vibrant colors or designs that catch the eye. This metaphorical use aligns perfectly with the clue's meaning.
17Portree is the capital of this isleSKYE????✨ See Why
Portree is the largest town and administrative center of the Isle of Skye, located in Scotland. The clue is straightforward, asking for the name of the island with Portree as its capital. Skye is part of the Inner Hebrides and fits perfectly as the solution.
19Death-___DEFYING???????✨ See Why
The answer "DEFYING" completes the phrase "Death-DEFYING," which commonly describes fearless or daring actions that seem to challenge death. This matches the blank in the clue, as "Death-___" directly hints at this well-known phrase.
23Triangular signYIELD?????✨ See Why
The clue "Triangular sign" refers to the shape of the YIELD road sign, which is an inverted triangle. This specific sign is universally triangular and instructs drivers to slow down and prepare to give the right of way, making "YIELD" the correct answer.
25Whom Uncle Sam wants for the U.S. ArmyYOU???✨ See Why
The clue refers to the famous U.S. Army recruitment slogan featuring Uncle Sam pointing and saying, "I Want YOU for the U.S. Army." "YOU" is the answer because the slogan directly addresses the individual, emphasizing personal responsibility to enlist.
28Like wild meat, sometimesGAMY????✨ See Why
The answer "GAMY" describes the strong, distinct taste or smell often associated with wild meat, such as venison or game birds. This flavor profile, less common in domesticated meats, aligns with the clue's description of "wild meat, sometimes." Note the hint in "wild," connecting to "game" from which "GAMY" derives.
30Manage to lose, as a tailSHAKE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Manage to lose, as a tail" uses wordplay. To "shake" something can mean to evade or get rid of it, such as a tail (someone following you). Hence, "shake" fits both the literal meaning of losing a pursuer and the figurative sense of managing to escape.
31He was a "rollin' stone," in a Motown classicPAPA????✨ See Why
The clue references the 1972 Motown classic "Papa Was a Rollin' Stone" by The Temptations. In the song, "Papa" is described as a man with a wandering, unreliable lifestyle, metaphorically referred to as a "rollin' stone." Thus, PAPA is the fitting answer.
33Proofreader's markDELE????✨ See Why
The answer "DELE" refers to a proofreading mark used to indicate that something should be deleted. "Dele" comes from Latin meaning "destroy" or "erase," and in editing, it signals the removal of text. It's a concise, standard term for this correction.
34CRANKYCASEY???????????✨ See Why
The clue "Actor Affleck when he needs a nap?" involves wordplay. "Casey" refers to actor Casey Affleck, Ben Affleck's brother. When someone needs a nap, they might be "cranky." Add two Ys to crankcase (a car part) to make cranky Casey — a sleepy, irritable version of actor Casey Affleck.
35Some nonlicensed tributesFANART??????✨ See Why
The clue "Some nonlicensed tributes" hints at creative works made by fans, often inspired by existing characters or franchises, without official authorization. "Fan art" fits perfectly, as it refers to such nonlicensed illustrations or creations celebrating their favorite content, aligning with the definition implied by the clue.
36Sluggers' statsRBIS????✨ See Why
RBIs (Runs Batted In) are a key statistic for "sluggers," or powerful hitters in baseball. They measure how many runs a player contributes by batting, reflecting their offensive performance. As the clue refers to "stats" specific to sluggers, RBIs fit perfectly.
37Startled criesEEKS????✨ See Why
The clue "Startled cries" refers to exclamations made when someone is surprised or shocked. "EEKS" is a fitting solution because it represents a common spoken reaction to fear or alarm, capturing the startled tone implied by the clue. It's a typical verbal sound for such moments.
39MOUTHYHARPY???????????✨ See Why
The solution "MOUTHYHARPY" plays on wordplay and puns. In myth, a harpy is a creature that's half-woman, half-bird. The term "mouthy" means outspoken or sassy—much like the "all attitude" in the clue. Together, "MOUTHYHARPY" humorously describes a loud, opinionated, harpy-like figure. Insert Ys into mouth harp to form mouthy harpy.
40"Eureka!" shouterARCHIMEDES??????????✨ See Why
ARCHIMEDES is the answer because he famously exclaimed "Eureka!" upon discovering the principle of buoyancy while in a bath. The word "Eureka," meaning "I have found it!" in Greek, is historically associated with him, making him the perfect fit for this clue.
41Benny Hill theme songYAKETYSAX?????????✨ See Why
The answer is YAKETYSAX because "Yakety Sax" is the well-known theme song of The Benny Hill Show. Its upbeat and comedic tone became iconic in chase and slapstick sequences featured in the show. The spelling hints at playful wordplay, fitting the tone.
42Oolong or lapsang souchongCHINESETEA??????????✨ See Why
The answer is CHINESETEA because both oolong and lapsang souchong are types of tea originating from China. The clue directly points to these specific tea varieties, making "Chinese tea" the overarching category that encompasses them.
43Actor Bill of "Barry"HADER?????✨ See Why
The answer is HADER because Bill Hader is an actor who stars in the HBO series "Barry." He plays the title character, Barry Berkman, a hitman-turned-aspiring actor, and has received critical acclaim, including Emmy awards, for his performance in the role.
44Twists side-to-sideYAWS????✨ See Why
The answer "YAWS" fits because it refers to a side-to-side motion or oscillation, often used to describe the movement of a ship, airplane, or vehicle deviating from its straight course. The clue directly describes this kind of twisting or swaying action.
46Hybrid sport played with a trampoline-like netSPIKEBALL?????????✨ See Why
SPIKEBALL is the solution because it is a hybrid sport that involves teams bouncing a ball off a small, trampoline-like net. Players alternate hits, aiming to make returning the ball challenging for opponents. The use of the trampoline net is a distinguishing feature of this modern, fast-paced game.
47Swiss locale of the annual meeting of the World Economic ForumDAVOS?????✨ See Why
DAVOS is the Swiss town where the World Economic Forum (WEF) holds its annual meeting. This global gathering of leaders in business, politics, and various fields has been hosted in Davos since 1971, making the location synonymous with the WEF. Hence, DAVOS perfectly fits the clue.
50Old-fashioned term of addressMAAM????✨ See Why
The answer "MA'AM" fits because it is a courteous, formal term of address traditionally used to address women, especially in the past. It reflects an old-fashioned manner of speech compared to modern casual alternatives, making it the perfect solution for "Old-fashioned term of address."
52GratisNOFEE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Gratis" means free or without charge. The answer, NOFEE, directly reflects this definition, as "no fee" indicates that something is provided without any cost, aligning perfectly with the meaning of "gratis."
53Garden shelterBOWER?????✨ See Why
The answer "BOWER" fits "Garden shelter" because a bower is a charming, shaded structure or area, often found in gardens, formed by trees, vines, or plants. It offers shelter and a serene space, aligning perfectly with the clue's description.
54Discovery of chemist John DaltonATOM????✨ See Why
John Dalton, a key figure in chemistry, is known for his Atomic Theory (early 1800s), which proposed that all matter is composed of tiny, indivisible particles called atoms. The clue refers to this groundbreaking discovery, making ATOM the correct answer.
55"You're cramping my ___"STYLE?????✨ See Why
The phrase "You're cramping my ___" is a common expression meaning someone is hindering or limiting another's comfort, confidence, or way of doing things. The word "STYLE" fits naturally to complete this expression, as "cramping someone's style" means restricting their freedom or flair.
58Evil alter ego of literatureHYDE????✨ See Why
HYDE is the "evil alter ego" in Robert Louis Stevenson's novella The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde. Dr. Jekyll transforms into the malevolent Mr. Hyde, embodying his dark side. This classic literary figure perfectly fits the clue.
59Waffle House alternativesIHOPS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Waffle House alternatives" signals wordplay. IHOP (International House of Pancakes) is a popular diner chain like Waffle House. The plural "alternatives" leads to "IHOPS" (a playful pluralization), aligning with the wordplay in the clue.
61SoundSANE????✨ See Why
The clue "Sound" can refer to being mentally sound, i.e., rational or reasonable. "SANE" fits this definition as it means mentally healthy or reasonable, aligning perfectly with the clue's meaning.
63Not follow suit, in bridgeREVOKE??????✨ See Why
In bridge, “not following suit” means failing to play a card of the suit led when able to. This violation is called a "revoke." It’s a penalty-triggering action defined in the game’s rules, making REVOKE the correct answer to the clue.
64Frequent on-screen partner of HepburnTRACY?????✨ See Why
The answer "TRACY" refers to Spencer Tracy, who was a frequent on-screen co-star of Katharine Hepburn. The two appeared together in several classic films, such as Adam’s Rib and Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner, and were celebrated for their remarkable chemistry and dynamic performances.
67"La Vie en rose" singerPIAF????✨ See Why
The answer is PIAF because Édith Piaf was the renowned French singer who famously performed "La Vie en rose," her signature song released in 1947. The clue references the song title, linking directly to Piaf, an iconic figure in French music history.
71Sports journalist LindaCOHN????✨ See Why
The answer is COHN because Linda Cohn is a renowned sports journalist and longtime anchor on ESPN's SportsCenter. She has been a prominent figure in sports broadcasting, making her name a fitting solution for this clue.
72"___, Silver!"HIYO????✨ See Why
The phrase "___, Silver!" refers to the famous catchphrase "Hi-yo, Silver!" from The Lone Ranger, a classic radio and TV show. The Lone Ranger famously shouted "Hi-yo, Silver!" when addressing his horse, Silver, making "HIYO" the correct answer.
74Gimlets and screwdriversTOOLS?????✨ See Why
The clue "Gimlets and screwdrivers" features a pun. While it might first evoke cocktails, both gimlets and screwdrivers are also tools—a gimlet drills small holes, and a screwdriver drives screws. Hence, the answer is TOOLS.
76Ad Council spots, for shortPSAS????✨ See Why
The answer "PSAS" stands for Public Service Announcements. The Ad Council creates these short promotional spots to raise awareness about public issues. The clue specifies "for short," indicating an abbreviation, matching PSAS.
77Some memes of the 2000sLOLCATS???????✨ See Why
The answer "LOLCATS" refers to a popular meme format from the 2000s featuring humorous pictures of cats with overlaid text in broken English, often known as "lolspeak." These memes became viral on websites like I Can Has Cheezburger?, embodying internet humor of that era perfectly.
78Driver's warningFORE????✨ See Why
The clue "Driver's warning" refers to golf, where a "driver" is a type of club used to hit the ball. "FORE" is a warning shouted to alert others about a potentially wayward golf ball, making it the perfect fit.
81Disgusting, in totspeakICKYPOO???????✨ See Why
The clue "Disgusting, in totspeak" suggests a childish or baby-like term for something gross. "Totspeak" indicates playful, simplified language children might use. ICKYPOO combines "icky" (gross or unpleasant) with "poo" (a childlike term for something dirty), capturing the playful, expressive tone of how a child might describe something disgusting.
82TV journalist KotbHODA????✨ See Why
The answer is HODA because Hoda Kotb is a well-known TV journalist and co-anchor of NBC’s Today show. The clue directly refers to her last name, "Kotb," making "HODA" the logical solution. This clue tests familiarity with prominent media figures.
83What wavy lines in comic strips representODORS?????✨ See Why
In comic strips, wavy lines are often used as a visual shorthand to represent smells or ODORS. This artistic choice helps convey the presence of an aroma, usually unpleasant or strong, in a simple and universally recognizable way.
84"I can't believe what I'm seeing!" facial reaction BUGEYES???????✨ See Why
The clue describes a facial reaction of shock or disbelief, often exaggerated. "Bug eyes" refers to wide, bulging eyes—a classic cartoonish expression of surprise or astonishment. The exclamation in the clue matches this visual reaction, making BUGEYES the fitting answer.
86Became real, as bad newsSANKIN??????✨ See Why
The phrase "SANK IN" refers to the moment when something, such as bad news, becomes fully understood or realized. The answer captures the metaphorical way bad news "sinks in" mentally, becoming real to the person. It's a figurative expression aligning perfectly with the clue.
88Southwestern culinary fusionCALMEX??????✨ See Why
CALMEX is short for California-Mexican cuisine, a fusion popular in the Southwestern U.S. It blends Mexican flavors with California influences like fresh, local produce and health-conscious twists. The clue hints at this regional hybrid cuisine with “Southwestern culinary fusion.”
90PigpenSTY???✨ See Why
The answer "STY" fits the clue "Pigpen" because a sty is the enclosure or area where pigs are commonly kept. The term pigpen and sty are often used interchangeably to describe a messy or dirty place—drawing a connection between the literal and figurative meanings.
92ExtraSPARE?????✨ See Why
The clue "Extra" refers to something additional or leftover, aligning with the definition of "SPARE," which means surplus or extra. Additionally, "spare" implies something kept in reserve, fitting the idea of being "extra" or more than what is necessary.
93Macbeth or MacduffSCOT????✨ See Why
The answer "SCOT" is fitting because both Macbeth and Macduff are characters from Shakespeare's play Macbeth, which is set in Scotland. Consequently, they are both Scots, meaning natives or inhabitants of Scotland. The clue references their nationality or identity.
94Bygone iPhone buttonHOME????✨ See Why
The answer is HOME because older iPhone models featured a physical button called the "Home button" located below the screen. This button, now obsolete on newer iPhone models with edge-to-edge displays, was used to navigate to the home screen, making it a "Bygone" feature.
95Common 110-Across stressorACNE????✨ See Why
A classic teenage stressor, ACNE directly ties to the cross-referenced clue 110-Across. The connection highlights the cause-and-effect relationship: teens often struggle with acne, making the pair a straightforward, relatable link in the grid.
96Move around and aroundSTIR????✨ See Why
The answer "STIR" fits the clue "Move around and around" because to stir something—like in cooking—means to repeatedly move or mix it in a circular, rotating motion. This captures the idea of continuous movement in a loop, aligning perfectly with the clue.
97Rapper with a feline-sounding nameTYGA????✨ See Why
The answer is TYGA because his name phonetically resembles "tiger," a feline animal. The clue plays on the "feline-sounding" aspect, hinting at the animalistic connection in the rapper's stage name. TYGA is a well-known rapper, making the pun recognizable.
98Chest muscles, for shortPECS????✨ See Why
The clue "Chest muscles, for short" refers to the pectoral muscles, which are large muscles in the chest. The term "PECS" is a common abbreviation for pectorals, matching the clue's request for a shortened form. Thus, the answer is PECS.
99KnitJOIN????✨ See Why
The solution "JOIN" fits the clue "Knit" as both words can mean to unite or bring together closely. In knitting, stitches are joined to form fabric, paralleling the broader sense of connecting or uniting things. This synonym aligns with the clue’s straightforward nature.
100"This round's ___"ONME????✨ See Why
The clue "This round's ___" refers to the common phrase used when someone offers to pay for the next round of drinks or refreshments. The phrase is "This round's on me," which is an expression of generosity. Thus, the answer is ONME.
101Effortless ways to advanceBYES????✨ See Why
The answer "BYES" refers to a situation in sports or competitions where a participant advances to the next round without competing, often due to the absence of an opponent or a scheduling setup. This progression is "effortless," fitting the clue perfectly.
103VexIRK???✨ See Why
The clue "Vex" means to annoy, upset, or irritate, which directly aligns with the meaning of "IRK." Both words convey a sense of causing slight frustration or agitation, making IRK the correct and concise answer to this straightforward clue.
105Close of business?INC???✨ See Why
The clue "Close of business?" features a pun. "Close" suggests an ending, and "business" hints at a company structure or designation. INC is the abbreviation for "incorporated," a legal ending for many business names, cleverly tying "close" to the literal ending of a business name.
10666, for example: Abbr.RTE???✨ See Why
The clue “66, for example: Abbr.” refers to Route 66, a famous highway in the United States. “Abbr.” signals that the answer is an abbreviation. “RTE” is a common way to abbreviate “Route,” making it the correct answer.
John Kugelman’s “All Too Wise” is a lively and language-rich Sunday puzzle built on a satisfying wordplay engine: every theme entry adds two Ys to a familiar phrase, transforming meaning in punny, riddle-worthy ways. From CLASSMATE → CLASSY MATEY (“Sailor who drinks only the finest grog?”) to FORT WORTH → FORTY WORTHY (“Suitable for the middle-aged?”), each themer lands with wit and clarity. The consistency of construction makes the theme click early but never feel repetitive — especially with gems like CRANKY CASEY and STEAMY IRONY. Smooth fill, natural cluing, and a playful title tie it all together beautifully.
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.