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Tuesday, December 23, 2025

Today's NYT Crossword Down Clues December 23, 2025 - Complete Top-to-Bottom Answers

NYT Down Today December 23, 2025: Complete Vertical Clues Walkthrough

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 39 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: September 11 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | December 11 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | January 04 2023 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for December 23, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Tuesday, December 23, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date December 23, 2025
Day of Week Tuesday
Total Down Clues 39 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Medium

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 39 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. Sgt. or cpl.
2 Down 2. Go off a ski jump, say
3 Down 3. "Oh, really?"
4 Down 4. Tried to identify, in a way, as a wrapped gift
5 Down 5. Playground retort
6 Down 6. 1990s internet option
7 Down 7. With all judges present
8 Down 8. ___ de Rossi, "Arrested Development" actress
9 Down 9. Aspen or pine
10 Down 10. Reporter's big get
11 Down 11. Just for grins
12 Down 12. Short version of an impactful story
13 Down 13. Org. regulating water safety
14 Down 21. Insect that emerges en masse every 13 or 17 years
15 Down 22. Kind of salad whose dressing contains anchovies
16 Down 23. Former N.B.A. star Shawn with the nickname "Reign Man"
17 Down 26. Nailed, as a test
18 Down 29. "Once ___ a time ..."
19 Down 30. Character played by Bruce Lee on "The Green Hornet"
20 Down 33. ___ Finn
21 Down 35. One of three on the pitchfork in "American Gothic"
22 Down 37. Big Apple org. that's going to blazes?
23 Down 38. Flat-bottomed boat
24 Down 40. "That's correct!"
25 Down 41. Resident of Pisa or Lucca
26 Down 42. Condition that may require an inhaler
27 Down 43. Get more than a little mad
28 Down 46. Like many a dress shirt, with "in"
29 Down 47. Top execs, colloquially ... or what 20-, 28-, 39- and 59-Across are, phonetically?
30 Down 48. Make negative remarks about
31 Down 50. Not on the up and up, slangily
32 Down 51. In a fitting way
33 Down 52. Breaks (into), as a computer system
34 Down 53. Middle name for Lennon starting in 1969
35 Down 56. "Escape (The ___ Colada Song)"
36 Down 58. Sign of peace
37 Down 60. Sallie or Fannie follower
38 Down 61. Hand-y communication method, for short?
39 Down 62. Drink slowly

Detailed Hints and Answers for All Down Clues

Need help? Here are comprehensive hints and answers for each Down clue. Also check these helpful guides:

Complete Down Solutions:

1 Down: "1. Sgt. or cpl."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'O'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NCO

2 Down: "2. Go off a ski jump, say"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: C______R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CATCHAIR

3 Down: "3. "Oh, really?""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: I______O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ISTHATSO

4 Down: "4. Tried to identify, in a way, as a wrapped gift"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: S___K
  • Similar words: agitate, stimulate
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SHOOK

5 Down: "5. Playground retort"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: A__O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AMSO

6 Down: "6. 1990s internet option"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: D____P
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DIALUP

7 Down: "7. With all judges present"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'C'
  • Word pattern: E____C
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ENBANC

8 Down: "8. ___ de Rossi, "Arrested Development" actress"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: P____A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PORTIA

9 Down: "9. Aspen or pine"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: T__E
  • Similar words: corner, shoetree
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TREE

10 Down: "10. Reporter's big get"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: S___P
  • Similar words: exclusive, goop
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the quantity a scoop will hold
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SCOOP

11 Down: "11. Just for grins"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: A______N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ALLINFUN

12 Down: "12. Short version of an impactful story"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'V' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: V______E
  • Similar words: sketch
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a brief literary description
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer VIGNETTE

13 Down: "13. Org. regulating water safety"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'A'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EPA

14 Down: "21. Insect that emerges en masse every 13 or 17 years"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: C____A
  • Similar words: cicala
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CICADA

15 Down: "22. Kind of salad whose dressing contains anchovies"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: C____R
  • Similar words: Julius Caesar, Sidney Caesar
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: conqueror of Gaul and master of Italy (100-44 BC)
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CAESAR

16 Down: "23. Former N.B.A. star Shawn with the nickname "Reign Man""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: K__P
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KEMP

17 Down: "26. Nailed, as a test"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: A__D
  • Similar words: sail through, ace
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: succeed at easily
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ACED

18 Down: "29. "Once ___ a time ...""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'U' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: U__N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer UPON

19 Down: "30. Character played by Bruce Lee on "The Green Hornet""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: K__O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KATO

20 Down: "33. ___ Finn"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: H__K
  • Similar words: huckaback
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HUCK

21 Down: "35. One of three on the pitchfork in "American Gothic""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: T__E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: prong on a fork or pitchfork or antler
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TINE

22 Down: "37. Big Apple org. that's going to blazes?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: F__Y
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FDNY

23 Down: "38. Flat-bottomed boat"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'W'
  • Word pattern: S__W
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: any of various flat-bottomed boats with sloping ends
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SCOW

24 Down: "40. "That's correct!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'Y' and ends with 'S'
  • Opposite of: no
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an affirmative
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer YES

25 Down: "41. Resident of Pisa or Lucca"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: T____N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a resident of Tuscany
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TUSCAN

26 Down: "42. Condition that may require an inhaler"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: A____A
  • Similar words: asthma attack
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ASTHMA

27 Down: "43. Get more than a little mad"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: S____D
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SEERED

28 Down: "46. Like many a dress shirt, with "in""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: T____D
  • Similar words: pucker, gather
  • Opposite of: untucked
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: fit snugly into
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TUCKED

29 Down: "47. Top execs, colloquially ... or what 20-, 28-, 39- and 59-Across are, phonetically?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: C____E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CSUITE

30 Down: "48. Make negative remarks about"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: H____N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HATEON

31 Down: "50. Not on the up and up, slangily"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Similar words: genus Sus
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: type genus of the Suidae
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SUS

32 Down: "51. In a fitting way"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: A___Y
  • Similar words: ably, competently
  • Opposite of: incompetently
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: with competence; in a competent capable manner
  • This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer APTLY

33 Down: "52. Breaks (into), as a computer system"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: H___S
  • Similar words: taxicab, plug
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: one who works hard at boring tasks
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HACKS

34 Down: "53. Middle name for Lennon starting in 1969"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'O'
  • Similar words: Yoko Ono
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ONO

35 Down: "56. "Escape (The ___ Colada Song)""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: P__A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PINA

36 Down: "58. Sign of peace"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: D__E
  • Similar words: peacenik, plunk
  • Opposite of: hawk
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: any of numerous small pigeons
  • This is Down clue number 36

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DOVE

37 Down: "60. Sallie or Fannie follower"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'E'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 37

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MAE

38 Down: "61. Hand-y communication method, for short?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'L'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the sign language used in the United States
  • This is Down clue number 38

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ASL

39 Down: "62. Drink slowly"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'P'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a small drink
  • This is Down clue number 39

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SIP

Expert Strategies for Solving Down Clues

Master the vertical clues with these professional tips:

Why Start with Down Clues?

  • Down clues often reveal key letters for intersecting words
  • Vertical patterns can unlock difficult sections
  • Many prefixes and suffixes run vertically
  • Down answers often help solve Across clues

Down Clue Patterns to Recognize

  1. Fill-in-the-blank clues: These are usually the easiest Down entries
  2. Prefixes and suffixes: Common word parts often run vertically
  3. Abbreviations: Look for clues with "Abbr." or shortened forms
  4. Plural indicators: Words ending in 'S' are common in Down
  5. Pop culture references: Names and titles often appear vertically

Time-Saving Down Techniques

Technique How It Helps
Scan all Down first Get a mental map of the vertical flow
Fill short Down words 3-4 letter words are often prefixes or connectors
Use crossing letters Across letters help confirm Down answers
Look for themes Related Down answers often share a theme

Frequently Asked Questions About Down Clues

What are Down clues in crossword puzzles?

Down clues are the vertical entries in a crossword puzzle that read from top to bottom. They're numbered and correspond to specific columns in the grid.

Should I solve Down or Across clues first?

Many solvers alternate between Down and Across clues to build momentum. Down clues can help unlock difficult sections by providing key intersecting letters. The best approach is to solve the clues you find easiest first, regardless of direction.

How many Down clues are in today's puzzle?

Today's NYT crossword has 39 Down clues.

Are Down clues easier than Across clues?

Neither direction is inherently easier. The difficulty depends on the specific clues and your knowledge. However, Down clues often contain helpful prefixes, suffixes, and word parts that can be easier to guess.

How do Down clues interact with Across clues?

Down and Across clues intersect at various points in the grid. Solving one can provide letters that help solve the other, making the puzzle easier as you progress.

About This Page: We provide comprehensive Down clues solutions and hints for the NYT Crossword to help you improve your solving skills. This site is not affiliated with The New York Times.

Last Updated: December 23, 2025 at 05:18 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, December 23 2025 down clues

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XWordHint Crossword Answers December 23, 2025 | Expert Breakdown & Tips

Master today's NYT crossword with our expert hint system. We provide synonyms, antonyms, and strategic clues to help you solve without spoiling the fun. Perfect for crossword lovers who want that satisfying "aha!" moment.

Quick Navigation - Table of Contents

December 23, 2025 NYT Crossword Solutions

Today's Puzzle Difficulty: Moderate

Pro Tip: Start with the fill-in-the-blank clues - they're usually the easiest entry points!

Across Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Longtime CBS procedural with multiple spinoffs 4
2A 5. Highly capable 5
3A 10. Ctrl+S command 4
4A 14. Alternative to check or credit card 4
5A 15. Secondary subject for a college student 5
6A 16. Short video 4
7A 17. Appropriately named bus driver on "The Simpsons" 4
8A 18. Alternative to épée or foil, in British English 5
9A 19. Tokarczuk who won the 2018 Nobel Prize in Literature 4
10A 20. Classic Hanukkah treat 13
11A 23. Brownish-yellow fabric 5
12A 24. Institution of higher education, to a Brit 3
13A 25. Sleeper's breathing problem 5
14A 27. Lead-in to "drink and be merry" 3
15A 28. Classic classroom party treat 7
16A 31. Antitrust enforcement org. 3
17A 32. Unfortunate accident 6
18A 34. Clever 6
19A 36. Highly pleased about 7
20A 38. Colored, as church glass 7
21A 39. Classic Halloween treat 9
22A 41. It's part of the job 4
23A 44. Prefix with classic 3
24A 45. Carve 4
25A 49. Take advantage of 3
26A 50. "Where'd you hear that?" 7
27A 54. Dream Team country, for short 3
28A 55. Take responsibility 6
29A 57. Cry from a movie director 6
30A 59. Classic Yuletide treat 15
31A 63. Prayer ender 4
32A 64. This should clear things up! 5
33A 65. Reject, as a bill 4
34A 66. Nothing, in Nogales 4
35A 67. Cries out 5
36A 68. Biblical garden 4

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Longtime CBS procedural with multiple spinoffs"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NCIS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "5. Highly capable"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that someone who is dazzlingly skilled in any field
  • Similar words include: virtuoso, whiz, wizard
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ADEPT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "10. Ctrl+S command"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (sports) the act of preventing the opposition from scoring
  • Similar words include: make unnecessary, redeem, pull through
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SAVE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "14. Alternative to check or credit card"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that money in the form of bills or coins
  • Similar words include: cash in, hard cash, immediate payment
  • Opposite of: credit
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CASH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "15. Secondary subject for a college student"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a young person of either sex
  • Similar words include: nestling, tiddler, small-scale
  • Opposite of: major
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MINOR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "16. Short video"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a metal frame or container holding cartridges; can be inserted into an automatic gun
  • Similar words include: lop, magazine, cut short
  • Opposite of: unclip
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CLIP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "17. Appropriately named bus driver on "The Simpsons""

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OTTO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "18. Alternative to épée or foil, in British English"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a fencing sword with a v-shaped blade and a slightly curved handle
  • Similar words include: saber, cavalry sword
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SABRE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "19. Tokarczuk who won the 2018 Nobel Prize in Literature"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OLGA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "20. Classic Hanukkah treat"

13 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CHOCOLATECOIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "23. Brownish-yellow fabric"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a sturdy twilled cloth of a yellowish brown color used especially for military uniforms
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: KHAKI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "24. Institution of higher education, to a Brit"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UNI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "25. Sleeper's breathing problem"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that transient cessation of respiration
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: APNEA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "27. Lead-in to "drink and be merry""

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that take in solid food
  • Similar words include: eat up, deplete, corrode
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "28. Classic classroom party treat"

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that small cake baked in a muffin tin
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CUPCAKE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "31. Antitrust enforcement org."

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an independent agency of the united states federal government that maintains fair and free competition; enforces federal antitrust laws; educates the public about identity theft
  • Similar words include: Federal Trade Commission
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FTC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "32. Unfortunate accident"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an unpredictable outcome that is unfortunate
  • Similar words include: bad luck, misadventure, mischance
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MISHAP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "34. Clever"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that marked by practical hardheaded intelligence
  • Similar words include: sharp, shrewd
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASTUTE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "36. Highly pleased about"

7 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PROUDOF

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "38. Colored, as church glass"

7 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that color with a liquid dye or tint
  • Similar words include: tarnish, varnished, maculate
  • Opposite of: unstained
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STAINED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "39. Classic Halloween treat"

9 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CANDYCORN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "41. It's part of the job"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any piece of work that is undertaken or attempted
  • Similar words include: tax, chore, undertaking
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TASK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "44. Prefix with classic"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (used as a combining form) recent or new
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NEO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "45. Carve"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that make an etching of
  • Similar words include: engrave
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ETCH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "49. Take advantage of"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the act of using
  • Similar words include: role, usage, economic consumption
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: USE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "50. "Where'd you hear that?""

7 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SAYSWHO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "54. Dream Team country, for short"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that north american republic containing 50 states - 48 conterminous states in north america plus alaska in northwest north america and the hawaiian islands in the pacific ocean; achieved independence in 1776
  • Similar words include: the States, US, America
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: USA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "55. Take responsibility"

6 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STEPUP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "57. Cry from a movie director"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ANDCUT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "59. Classic Yuletide treat"

15 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _______________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CHRISTMASCOOKIE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "63. Prayer ender"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a primeval egyptian personification of air and breath; worshipped especially at thebes
  • Similar words include: Amon, Amun
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AMEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "64. This should clear things up!"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a refractive surgery procedure that reshapes the cornea
  • Similar words include: laser-assisted in situ keratomileusis
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LASIK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "65. Reject, as a bill"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a vote that blocks a decision
  • Similar words include: disallow, forbid, prohibit
  • Opposite of: allow, permit
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: VETO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "66. Nothing, in Nogales"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a quantity of no importance
  • Similar words include: null, cipher, aught
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NADA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "67. Cries out"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a sharp high-pitched cry (especially by a dog)
  • Similar words include: yap, yelping, yelp
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: YELPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36A: "68. Biblical garden"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any place of complete bliss and delight and peace
  • Similar words include: promised land, Garden of Eden, heaven
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EDEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Sgt. or cpl. 3
2D 2. Go off a ski jump, say 8
3D 3. "Oh, really?" 8
4D 4. Tried to identify, in a way, as a wrapped gift 5
5D 5. Playground retort 4
6D 6. 1990s internet option 6
7D 7. With all judges present 6
8D 8. ___ de Rossi, "Arrested Development" actress 6
9D 9. Aspen or pine 4
10D 10. Reporter's big get 5
11D 11. Just for grins 8
12D 12. Short version of an impactful story 8
13D 13. Org. regulating water safety 3
14D 21. Insect that emerges en masse every 13 or 17 years 6
15D 22. Kind of salad whose dressing contains anchovies 6
16D 23. Former N.B.A. star Shawn with the nickname "Reign Man" 4
17D 26. Nailed, as a test 4
18D 29. "Once ___ a time ..." 4
19D 30. Character played by Bruce Lee on "The Green Hornet" 4
20D 33. ___ Finn 4
21D 35. One of three on the pitchfork in "American Gothic" 4
22D 37. Big Apple org. that's going to blazes? 4
23D 38. Flat-bottomed boat 4
24D 40. "That's correct!" 3
25D 41. Resident of Pisa or Lucca 6
26D 42. Condition that may require an inhaler 6
27D 43. Get more than a little mad 6
28D 46. Like many a dress shirt, with "in" 6
29D 47. Top execs, colloquially ... or what 20-, 28-, 39- and 59-Across are, phonetically? 6
30D 48. Make negative remarks about 6
31D 50. Not on the up and up, slangily 3
32D 51. In a fitting way 5
33D 52. Breaks (into), as a computer system 5
34D 53. Middle name for Lennon starting in 1969 3
35D 56. "Escape (The ___ Colada Song)" 4
36D 58. Sign of peace 4
37D 60. Sallie or Fannie follower 3
38D 61. Hand-y communication method, for short? 3
39D 62. Drink slowly 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Sgt. or cpl."

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NCO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Go off a ski jump, say"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CATCHAIR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. "Oh, really?""

8 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ISTHATSO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Tried to identify, in a way, as a wrapped gift"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a disassembled barrel; the parts packed for storage or shipment
  • Similar words include: escape from, shake, judder
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SHOOK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Playground retort"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AMSO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. 1990s internet option"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DIALUP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. With all judges present"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ENBANC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. ___ de Rossi, "Arrested Development" actress"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PORTIA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Aspen or pine"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a tall perennial woody plant having a main trunk and branches forming a distinct elevated crown; includes both gymnosperms and angiosperms
  • Similar words include: tree diagram, Sir Herbert Beerbohm Tree, corner
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TREE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Reporter's big get"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the quantity a scoop will hold
  • Similar words include: scoop out, goop, Georgia home boy
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCOOP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Just for grins"

8 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ALLINFUN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Short version of an impactful story"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a brief literary description
  • Similar words include: sketch
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: VIGNETTE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "13. Org. regulating water safety"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an independent federal agency established to coordinate programs aimed at reducing pollution and protecting the environment
  • Similar words include: Environmental Protection Agency
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EPA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "21. Insect that emerges en masse every 13 or 17 years"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that stout-bodied insect with large membranous wings; male has drum-like organs for producing a high-pitched drone
  • Similar words include: cicala
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CICADA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "22. Kind of salad whose dressing contains anchovies"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that conqueror of gaul and master of italy (100-44 bc)
  • Similar words include: Gaius Julius Caesar, Sidney Caesar, Julius Caesar
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CAESAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "23. Former N.B.A. star Shawn with the nickname "Reign Man""

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: KEMP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "26. Nailed, as a test"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that succeed at easily
  • Similar words include: sail through, sweep through, nail
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ACED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "29. "Once ___ a time ...""

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UPON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "30. Character played by Bruce Lee on "The Green Hornet""

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: KATO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "33. ___ Finn"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that toweling consisting of coarse absorbent cotton or linen fabric
  • Similar words include: huckaback
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HUCK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "35. One of three on the pitchfork in "American Gothic""

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that prong on a fork or pitchfork or antler
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TINE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "37. Big Apple org. that's going to blazes?"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FDNY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "38. Flat-bottomed boat"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of various flat-bottomed boats with sloping ends
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCOW

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "40. "That's correct!""

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an affirmative
  • Opposite of: no
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: YES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "41. Resident of Pisa or Lucca"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a resident of tuscany
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TUSCAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "42. Condition that may require an inhaler"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that respiratory disorder characterized by wheezing; usually of allergic origin
  • Similar words include: bronchial asthma, asthma attack
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASTHMA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "43. Get more than a little mad"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SEERED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "46. Like many a dress shirt, with "in""

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that fit snugly into
  • Similar words include: tuck, insert, gather
  • Opposite of: untucked
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TUCKED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "47. Top execs, colloquially ... or what 20-, 28-, 39- and 59-Across are, phonetically?"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CSUITE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "48. Make negative remarks about"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HATEON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "50. Not on the up and up, slangily"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that type genus of the suidae
  • Similar words include: genus Sus
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SUS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "51. In a fitting way"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that with competence; in a competent capable manner
  • Similar words include: capably, competently, ably
  • Opposite of: incompetently
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: APTLY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "52. Breaks (into), as a computer system"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that one who works hard at boring tasks
  • Similar words include: ward-heeler, hack on, taxicab
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HACKS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "53. Middle name for Lennon starting in 1969"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that united states musician (born in japan) who married john lennon and collaborated with him on recordings (born in 1933)
  • Similar words include: Yoko Ono
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ONO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "56. "Escape (The ___ Colada Song)""

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PINA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "58. Sign of peace"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of numerous small pigeons
  • Similar words include: plunk, peacenik, dive
  • Opposite of: hawk
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DOVE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37D: "60. Sallie or Fannie follower"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MAE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

38D: "61. Hand-y communication method, for short?"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the sign language used in the united states
  • Similar words include: American sign language
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

39D: "62. Drink slowly"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a small drink
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SIP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Expert Solving Strategies

Start Smart

Begin with fill-in-the-blank clues and short 3-4 letter words. These are your foundation.

Decode the Clues

Question marks indicate wordplay or puns. "Maybe" suggests multiple interpretations.

Use Cross-References

Let intersecting letters guide you. One correct answer unlocks several others.

Build Vocabulary

Common crossword words repeat. Learning them speeds up future solving.

Today's Puzzle Stats

36 Across Clues
39 Down Clues
75 Total Clues

More NYT Crossword Help

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Last updated: December 23, 2025 at 04:21 AM

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