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Saturday, August 15, 2026

NYT Mini Puzzle Trivia Week 3 August 15, 2026 - Solved

Today's Trivia Week 3 NYT Mini Crossword August 15, 2026 Answers

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Mini Crossword has 20 clues total. We have all the answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Popular Puzzles: November 28 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | NYT Mini Today October 31 2025 Complete | July 24 2019 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Puzzle

NYT Mini Crossword solutions for August 15, 2026
NYT Mini Crossword Grid - Saturday, August 15, 2026
Puzzle Statistics
Detail Information
Date August 15, 2026
Grid Size 5 x 5 squares
Total Clues 20 clues
Across Clues 10 clues
Down Clues 10 clues
Average Solve Time Under 1 minute

Today's Trivia Week {week_num} NYT Mini Crossword Grid Layout

This puzzle uses a 5 by 5 grid. That means 5 boxes across and 5 boxes down.

5x5 Crossword Grid Pattern
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Column 5
Row 1          
Row 2          
Row 3          
Row 4          
Row 5          

How to Solve This Puzzle Fast

  1. Read all the clues first - your brain will start working on them
  2. Fill in the short words first (3 letters or less)
  3. Use the crossing letters to help with harder words
  4. If a clue has a question mark (?), it's probably a joke or play on words
  5. Common short words: THE, AND, ARE, FOR, NOT

Quick Facts About This Puzzle

  • Total squares in grid: 25 (5 times 5)
  • Average time to solve: Less than 1 minute
  • Best time to play: During a coffee break
  • Difficulty level: Made for everyone to enjoy

Across Clues - 10 Total

These clues go from left to right in the puzzle.

Across Clues List
Number Clue
1 Across 58. Go in the wrong way?
2 Across 57. Big name in fashion
3 Across 39. Long-___ squid
4 Across 54. Classical figure in an 1898 Gustav Klimt oil
5 Across 43. Christina of "Buffalo '66"
6 Across 51. Thru
7 Across 22. 7/
8 Across 16. Worth looking back on
9 Across 7. Show faces?
10 Across 27. Patient privacy law, in brief

Hints and Answers for Across Clues

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


1 Across: "58. Go in the wrong way?"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 8 letters
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: T______S

Answer:

Click to reveal TRESPASS


2 Across: "57. Big name in fashion"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 6 letters
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: L____N

Answer:

Click to reveal LAUREN


3 Across: "39. Long-___ squid"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: A___D

Answer:

Click to reveal ARMED


4 Across: "54. Classical figure in an 1898 Gustav Klimt oil"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 6 letters
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: A____A

Answer:

Click to reveal ATHENA


5 Across: "43. Christina of "Buffalo '66""

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'I'
  • Word pattern: R___I

Answer:

Click to reveal RICCI


6 Across: "51. Thru"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'L'
  • This is a short form or acronym

Answer:

Click to reveal TIL


7 Across: "22. 7/"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'J' and ends with 'L'
  • This is a short form or acronym

Answer:

Click to reveal JUL


8 Across: "16. Worth looking back on"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 8 letters
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'C'
  • Word pattern: H______C

Answer:

Click to reveal HISTORIC


9 Across: "7. Show faces?"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 8 letters
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: T______S

Answer:

Click to reveal TVACTORS


10 Across: "27. Patient privacy law, in brief"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: H___A

Answer:

Click to reveal HIPAA

Down Clues - 10 Total

These clues go from top to bottom in the puzzle.

Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 30. Scout's follower?
2 Down 35. "You get the point"
3 Down 41. French soccer superstar Kylian
4 Down 55. Orange or lime
5 Down 21. Upper regions of forests
6 Down 24. Sea cow
7 Down 14. Charybdis' man-eating opposite, in myth
8 Down 1. Cut out the middleman, for delivery
9 Down 40. Certain tenant
10 Down 4. No-good ending?

Hints and Answers for Down Clues

Need help? Here are hints and answers for each clue above. You might also like:


1 Down: "30. Scout's follower?"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: H___R

Answer:

Click to reveal HONOR


2 Down: "35. "You get the point""

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 8 letters
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: E______A

Answer:

Click to reveal ETCETERA


3 Down: "41. French soccer superstar Kylian"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 6 letters
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: M____E

Answer:

Click to reveal MBAPPE


4 Down: "55. Orange or lime"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'E'
  • Another word like this: imbue

Answer:

Click to reveal HUE


5 Down: "21. Upper regions of forests"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 12 letters
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: T__________S

Answer:

Click to reveal TREECANOPIES


6 Down: "24. Sea cow"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 7 letters
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: M_____E

Answer:

Click to reveal MANATEE


7 Down: "14. Charybdis' man-eating opposite, in myth"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 6 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: S____A

Answer:

Click to reveal SCYLLA


8 Down: "1. Cut out the middleman, for delivery"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 8 letters
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: D______P

Answer:

Click to reveal DROPSHIP


9 Down: "40. Certain tenant"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 6 letters
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: R____R

Answer:

Click to reveal ROOMER


10 Down: "4. No-good ending?"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'K'
  • This is a short form or acronym

Answer:

Click to reveal NIK

How to Solve the NYT Mini Crossword Faster

Here are the best tips from expert solvers:

Step-by-Step Strategy

  1. Quick Scan: Read all clues once. Your brain starts working on them right away.
  2. Easy First: Fill in the shortest words (2-3 letters). These are usually simple words like "IT" or "ON".
  3. Use Crossings: When letters cross, they help you figure out harder words.
  4. Watch for Wordplay: Clues with question marks (?) are jokes or puns.
  5. Common Words: Remember these appear often: ERA, ORE, ATE, ICE.

Letter Tips That Really Help

  • The letter E is the most common in English
  • Words ending in S are often plurals
  • If you see "___" in a clue, the answer fits those blanks exactly
  • Abbreviations in clues mean the answer is also abbreviated

Time Goals to Aim For

Your Time Skill Level What It Means
Under 30 seconds Expert You know the puzzle patterns very well!
30-60 seconds Advanced Great job! You solve quickly.
1-2 minutes Good You're doing well. Keep practicing!
Over 2 minutes Learning You'll get faster with practice.

Puzzle Numbers and Facts

Today's Puzzle by the Numbers
Total Clues: 20 clues to solve
Grid Size: 5 boxes across, 5 boxes down
Total Squares: 25 squares to fill
Average Time: Most people solve in 45 seconds
Difficulty: A bit tricky

Common Questions About Trivia Week 3

When can I play the Trivia Week 3 Mini?

The Trivia Week 3 puzzle is available at 10 PM Eastern Time the night before.

How fast should I be able to solve Trivia Week 3?

Most people solve the Trivia Week 3 Mini in 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Don't worry if you take longer - speed comes with practice!

Do I need to pay to play Trivia Week 3?

No! The Trivia Week 3 NYT Mini is completely free. You don't need a subscription like the big crossword.

What makes a good Trivia Week 3 solver?

Good Trivia Week 3 solvers know common short words, can spot wordplay quickly, and use crossing letters well. Practice helps a lot!

Are the puzzles harder during Trivia Week 3?

Trivia Week 3 puzzles can vary in difficulty. Saturdays are often the hardest, while Mondays are the easiest.


About This Page: We provide hints and answers for the NYT Mini Crossword to help you learn and improve. This site is not connected to The New York Times.

Last Updated: August 15, 2026 at 03:59 AM

Search terms: NYT Mini Trivia Week, Trivia Week {week_num}, Mini crossword Trivia Week, Trivia Week answers, NYT Trivia Week, August 15 2026 mini crossword

XWordHint Crossword Answers August 15, 2026 | 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

Today's Puzzle Difficulty: Medium

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. Began 6
2A 7. Show faces? 8
3A 15. Bring back into the fold, so to speak 6
4A 16. Worth looking back on 8
5A 17. One from "Japan's kitchen" 6
6A 18. Appeal 8
7A 19. Bit of ceramic ware 3
8A 20. Cast off 7
9A 22. 7/ 3
10A 23. "Lovely" and "wonderful" food, per Monty Python 4
11A 25. Rose Bowl Stadium athlete 5
12A 26. Big ring 4
13A 27. Patient privacy law, in brief 5
14A 29. World Cup team nicknamed "The Three Lions": Abbr. 3
15A 30. Say "Hey," say 5
16A 31. "Speak up" 12
17A 34. Intermezzo and trou normand dishes, essentially 15
18A 38. Hoedown get-down? 12
19A 39. Long-___ squid 5
20A 42. "Wayne's World" exclamation 3
21A 43. Christina of "Buffalo '66" 5
22A 44. Ring location 4
23A 45. Oil wells? 5
24A 47. Nickname for Eleanor 4
25A 48. Eye-catching stage prop 3
26A 49. "Got it?" 7
27A 51. Thru 3
28A 52. Underlining, e.g. 8
29A 54. Classical figure in an 1898 Gustav Klimt oil 6
30A 56. Some back-and-forth 8
31A 57. Big name in fashion 6
32A 58. Go in the wrong way? 8
33A 59. "I beg you!" 6

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Began"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that become clear or enter one's consciousness or emotions
  • Similar words include: come home, fall into place, dawn
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DAWNED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "7. Show faces?"

8 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "15. Bring back into the fold, so to speak"

6 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "16. Worth looking back on"

8 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that belonging to the past; of what is important or famous in the past
  • Similar words include: historical
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HISTORIC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "17. One from "Japan's kitchen""

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "18. Appeal"

8 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that earnest or urgent request
  • Similar words include: prayer, appeal
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ENTREATY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "19. Bit of ceramic ware"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that metal or earthenware cooking vessel that is usually round and deep; often has a handle and lid
  • Similar words include: heap, toilet, throne
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: POT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "20. Cast off"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "22. 7/"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "23. "Lovely" and "wonderful" food, per Monty Python"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a canned meat made largely from pork
  • Similar words include: junk e-mail
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SPAM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "25. Rose Bowl Stadium athlete"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a conventional name for a bear used in tales following usage in the old epic `reynard the fox'
  • Similar words include: brown bear, Ursus arctos
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BRUIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "26. Big ring"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a deep prolonged sound (as of thunder or large bells)
  • Similar words include: pealing, rolling, roll
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PEAL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "27. Patient privacy law, in brief"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HIPAA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "29. World Cup team nicknamed "The Three Lions": Abbr."

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "30. Say "Hey," say"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a very loud utterance (like the sound of an animal)
  • Similar words include: bellow, holloa, holler
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOLLA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "31. "Speak up""

12 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ICANTHEARYOU

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "34. Intermezzo and trou normand dishes, essentially"

15 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "38. Hoedown get-down?"

12 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TEXASTWOSTEP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "39. Long-___ squid"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that prepare oneself for a military confrontation
  • Similar words include: gird, fortify, arm
  • Opposite of: disarm, unarmed
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ARMED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "42. "Wayne's World" exclamation"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that negation of a word or group of words
  • Similar words include: non
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NOT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "43. Christina of "Buffalo '66""

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RICCI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "44. Ring location"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (anatomy) a somewhat rounded subdivision of a bodily organ or part
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LOBE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "45. Oil wells?"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any tiny hole admitting passage of a liquid (fluid or gas)
  • Similar words include: centre, rivet, concentrate
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PORES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "47. Nickname for Eleanor"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "48. Eye-catching stage prop"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a long thin fluffy scarf of feathers or fur
  • Similar words include: feather boa
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BOA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "49. "Got it?""

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "51. Thru"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "52. Underlining, e.g."

8 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that special importance or significance
  • Similar words include: stress, vehemence, accent
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EMPHASIS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "54. Classical figure in an 1898 Gustav Klimt oil"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (greek mythology) goddess of wisdom and useful arts and prudent warfare; guardian of athens; identified with roman minerva
  • Similar words include: Pallas, Pallas Athene, Pallas Athena
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ATHENA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "56. Some back-and-forth"

8 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that adroitness and cleverness in reply
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: REPARTEE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "57. Big name in fashion"

6 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "58. Go in the wrong way?"

8 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a wrongful interference with the possession of property (personal property as well as realty), or the action instituted to recover damages
  • Similar words include: violation, intrusion, intrude
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TRESPASS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "59. "I beg you!""

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that give pleasure to or be pleasing to
  • Similar words include: delight
  • Opposite of: displease
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PLEASE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Cut out the middleman, for delivery 8
2D 2. Fabulous collection 8
3D 3. "You're the best!" 8
4D 4. No-good ending? 3
5D 5. Diamond figs. 4
6D 6. Leftmost star of the Summer Triangle 5
7D 7. Classic 1926 novel often published with a bull and matador on its cover 15
8D 8. Dressing group 12
9D 9. Gamgee player in "Lord of the Rings" 5
10D 10. ___-C 4
11D 11. The second one on the Statue of Liberty is longer than its first one 3
12D 12. Toothache care option 6
13D 13. Communion, e.g. 6
14D 14. Charybdis' man-eating opposite, in myth 6
15D 21. Upper regions of forests 12
16D 24. Sea cow 7
17D 26. French Baroque artist Nicolas 7
18D 28. Challenged on X, say 5
19D 30. Scout's follower? 5
20D 32. Bad spell 3
21D 33. Partner of pitch and roll 3
22D 35. "You get the point" 8
23D 36. Kicks back, in a way 8
24D 37. Crime writer Mickey who created the Mike Hammer stories 8
25D 39. Prince of Monaco beginning in 2005 6
26D 40. Certain tenant 6
27D 41. French soccer superstar Kylian 6
28D 45. Some bow ties 5
29D 46. Where roots take hold 5
30D 49. Complain 4
31D 50. Citation shortener 4
32D 53. Tricks 3
33D 55. Orange or lime 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Cut out the middleman, for delivery"

8 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Fabulous collection"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. "You're the best!""

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. No-good ending?"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Diamond figs."

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a period marked by distinctive character or reckoned from a fixed point or event
  • Similar words include: epoch, ERA, earned run average
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ERAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Leftmost star of the Summer Triangle"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the brightest star in cygnus
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DENEB

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Classic 1926 novel often published with a bull and matador on its cover"

15 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Dressing group"

12 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that oil and vinegar with mustard and garlic
  • Similar words include: sauce vinaigrette, vinaigrette, French dressing
  • Pattern: ____________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: VINAIGRETTES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Gamgee player in "Lord of the Rings""

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASTIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. ___-C"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. The second one on the Statue of Liberty is longer than its first one"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that one of the digits of the foot
  • Similar words include: toenail
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TOE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Toothache care option"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "13. Communion, e.g."

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any customary observance or practice
  • Similar words include: rite
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RITUAL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "14. Charybdis' man-eating opposite, in myth"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (greek mythology) a sea nymph transformed into a sea monster who lived on one side of a narrow strait; drowned and devoured sailors who tried to escape charybdis (a whirlpool) on the other side of the strait
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCYLLA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "21. Upper regions of forests"

12 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TREECANOPIES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "24. Sea cow"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that sirenian mammal of tropical coastal waters of america; the flat tail is rounded
  • Similar words include: Trichechus manatus
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MANATEE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "26. French Baroque artist Nicolas"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that french painter in the classical style (1594-1665)
  • Similar words include: Nicolas Poussin
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: POUSSIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "28. Challenged on X, say"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ATTED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "30. Scout's follower?"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction
  • Similar words include: honour, purity, pureness
  • Opposite of: dishonor, disrespect
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HONOR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "32. Bad spell"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an evil spell
  • Similar words include: curse, bewitch, glamour
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HEX

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "33. Partner of pitch and roll"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an erratic deflection from an intended course
  • Similar words include: gape, swerve, yawn
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: YAW

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "35. "You get the point""

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that additional unspecified odds and ends; more of the same
  • Similar words include: etc., and so forth, and so on
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ETCETERA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "36. Kicks back, in a way"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that move the upper body backwards and down
  • Similar words include: repose, lean back, recumb
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RECLINES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "37. Crime writer Mickey who created the Mike Hammer stories"

8 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that united states writer of popular detective novels (born in 1918)
  • Similar words include: Mickey Spillane, Frank Morrison Spillane
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SPILLANE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "39. Prince of Monaco beginning in 2005"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that prince consort of queen victoria of england (1819-1861)
  • Similar words include: Prince Albert, Albert Francis Charles Augustus Emmanuel
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ALBERT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "40. Certain tenant"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a tenant in someone's house
  • Similar words include: boarder, lodger
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ROOMER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "41. French soccer superstar Kylian"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "45. Some bow ties"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a dish that contains pasta as its main ingredient
  • Similar words include: alimentary paste
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PASTA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "46. Where roots take hold"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the skin that covers the top of the head
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCALP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "49. Complain"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the lean flesh of a fish that is often farmed; can be baked or braised
  • Similar words include: chicane, cavil
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CARP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "50. Citation shortener"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "53. Tricks"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (astronomy) the angular distance of a celestial point measured westward along the celestial equator from the zenith crossing; the right ascension for an observer at a particular location and time of day
  • Similar words include: feature, make, let
  • Opposite of: abstain, refuse
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "55. Orange or lime"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the quality of a color as determined by its dominant wavelength
  • Similar words include: imbue, chromaticity
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HUE

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

33 Across Clues
33 Down Clues
66 Total Clues

More NYT Crossword Help

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Last updated: August 15, 2026 at 03:59 AM

Monday, September 15, 2025

September 20, 2021 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Monday, September 20, 2021

Difficulty Level: Medium Tuesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 76 (35 Across, 41 Down)

Average Word Length: 5.0 letters

Across Clues Explained - Monday NYT Crossword September 20, 2021

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. What lava becomes after an eruption 5
2A 6. The "S" of L.S.U. 5
3A 11. Number of provinces in Canada 3
4A 14. Relative by marriage 5
5A 15. "This ___ to do the trick" 5
6A 16. Pub brew 3
7A 17. Pizza feature for a specialized diet 15
8A 20. Nay's opposite 3
9A 21. College official 4
10A 22. Gossiping types 6
11A 23. Products of Pilot and Bic 4
12A 24. Lead-in to girl or boy 4
13A 25. River beneath 37 Parisian bridges 5
14A 27. Pain 4
15A 28. Lucy of "Charlie's Angels" 3
16A 31. Five, in French 4
17A 32. Classic arcade game set in outer space 9
18A 34. Take on a position, along with its responsibilities 15
19A 37. Cleaned, as a window 9
20A 38. Storage for garden tools 4
21A 39. Sticky part of a gecko 3
22A 40. Dress like, for a costume party, say 4
23A 41. Contemptuous look 5
24A 43. Soccer great Mia 4
25A 44. Iota 4
26A 45. Eastern place of worship 6
27A 48. James who played Sonny Corleone 4
28A 49. Letters on a bottle of tanning lotion 3
29A 52. Lacking any moral compass 15
30A 55. Year, in Spain 3
31A 56. "Cleanup on ___ 5!" 5
32A 57. ___ noir (wine) 5
33A 58. "Affirmative!" 3
34A 59. Los Angeles N.B.A. player 5
35A 60. What lava is before an eruption 5

Let's Solve the Across Clues Together!

Here are helpful hints to solve each clue. Remember, crossword puzzles are like word games - have fun with them!

Clue 1 Across: "1. What lava becomes after an eruption"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a lump or mass of hard consolidated mineral matter
  • Words that mean the same thing: careen, rock candy, rock
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ROCKS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "6. The "S" of L.S.U."

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the territory occupied by one of the constituent administrative districts of a nation
  • Words that mean the same thing: nation, tell, body politic
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STATE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "11. Number of provinces in Canada"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the cardinal number that is the sum of nine and one; the base of the decimal system
  • Words that mean the same thing: X, 10, ten-spot
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. Relative by marriage"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: INLAW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "15. "This ___ to do the trick""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OUGHT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "16. Pub brew"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a general name for beer made with a top fermenting yeast; in some of the united states an ale is (by law) a brew of more than 4% alcohol by volume
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "17. Pizza feature for a specialized diet"

Quick Info: This answer has 15 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GLUTENFREECRUST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "20. Nay's opposite"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AYE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "21. College official"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an administrator in charge of a division of a university or college
  • Words that mean the same thing: doyen, James Dean, James Byron Dean
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DEAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "22. Gossiping types"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (yiddish) a vulgar shrew; a shallow coarse termagant
  • Words that mean the same thing: yenta
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: YENTAS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "23. Products of Pilot and Bic"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a writing implement with a point from which ink flows
  • Words that mean the same thing: compose, write, indite
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PENS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "24. Lead-in to girl or boy"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ATTA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "25. River beneath 37 Parisian bridges"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about geography.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a french river that flows through the heart of paris and then northward into the english channel
  • Words that mean the same thing: Seine River
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SEINE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "27. Pain"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a dull persistent (usually moderately intense) pain
  • Words that mean the same thing: languish, suffer, smart
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACHE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "28. Lucy of "Charlie's Angels""

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LIU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "31. Five, in French"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CINQ

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "32. Classic arcade game set in outer space"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a expert clue about sports.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that any of numerous small celestial bodies composed of rock and metal that move around the sun (mainly between the orbits of mars and jupiter)
  • Words that mean the same thing: asteroid
  • The word looks like this: _________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ASTEROIDS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "34. Take on a position, along with its responsibilities"

Quick Info: This answer has 15 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ASSUMETHEMANTLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "37. Cleaned, as a window"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that wipe with a squeegee
  • Words that mean the same thing: squeegee
  • The word looks like this: _________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SQUEEGEED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "38. Storage for garden tools"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an outbuilding with a single story; used for shelter or storage
  • Words that mean the same thing: throw off, throw away, exuviate
  • The opposite would be: persistent
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SHED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "39. Sticky part of a gecko"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that one of the digits of the foot
  • Words that mean the same thing: toenail
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TOE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "40. Dress like, for a costume party, say"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a state of southwestern india; a former portuguese colony
  • Words that mean the same thing: Goa
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GOAS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "41. Contemptuous look"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a facial expression of contempt or scorn; the upper lip curls
  • Words that mean the same thing: leer
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SNEER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "43. Soccer great Mia"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HAMM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "44. Iota"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a tiny or scarcely detectable amount
  • Words that mean the same thing: smidge, iota, smidgin
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: WHIT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "45. Eastern place of worship"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an asian temple; usually a pyramidal tower with an upward curving roof
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PAGODA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "48. James who played Sonny Corleone"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CAAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "49. Letters on a bottle of tanning lotion"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the degree to which a sunscreen protects the skin from the direct rays of the sun
  • Words that mean the same thing: sun protection factor
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SPF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "52. Lacking any moral compass"

Quick Info: This answer has 15 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _______________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ROTTENTOTHECORE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "55. Year, in Spain"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a palestinian international terrorist organization that split from the plo in 1974; has conducted terrorist attacks in 20 countries
  • Words that mean the same thing: Abu Nidal Organization, Fatah Revolutionary Council, Black September
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ANO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "56. "Cleanup on ___ 5!""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a long narrow passage (as in a cave or woods)
  • Words that mean the same thing: gangway
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AISLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "57. ___ noir (wine)"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that any of several purple or white wine grapes used especially for burgundies and champagnes
  • Words that mean the same thing: Pinot grape
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PINOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "58. "Affirmative!""

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an affirmative
  • The opposite would be: no
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: YES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "59. Los Angeles N.B.A. player"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about sports.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LAKER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "60. What lava is before an eruption"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that molten rock in the earth's crust
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MAGMA

    Great job if you got it right!

September 20, 2021 Down Hints: NYT Monday Crossword Guide

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Latvia's capital 4
2D 2. Solitary 4
3D 3. Aid in solving a mystery 4
4D 4. Dennings of "2 Broke Girls" 3
5D 5. Land between Norway and Finland 6
6D 6. Couches 5
7D 7. Word before "the tables" or "the tide" 4
8D 8. Grow older 3
9D 9. Nonbinary pronoun pair 8
10D 10. "... and the list goes on" 8
11D 11. Opposite of loose 4
12D 12. Disney princess voiced by Idina Menzel 4
13D 13. Safeguards for tightrope walkers 4
14D 18. Official bird of Hawaii 4
15D 19. Genetic "messenger" 3
16D 23. Excite, as curiosity 5
17D 24. Played a part on stage 5
18D 25. One-named R&B singer with the 1999 6x platinum album "Unleash the Dragon" 5
19D 26. Follow shortly thereafter 5
20D 27. Volcanic emissions 5
21D 28. Thin and graceful 5
22D 29. One just passing time 5
23D 30. Secondhand 4
24D 31. Group in a playbill 4
25D 32. Starting squad 5
26D 33. Arrival 5
27D 35. Business announcement involving billions of dollars 8
28D 36. It's all about me, me, me 8
29D 41. Former Iranian leader 4
30D 42. Prime-time hour 6
31D 43. Sweltering 3
32D 44. One piece of evidence of a planet's habitability 5
33D 45. Address God 4
34D 46. Top-notch 4
35D 47. Classic Pontiac muscle cars 4
36D 48. Rapper J. ___ 4
37D 49. Serenade, e.g. 4
38D 50. Big night for a high schooler 4
39D 51. Crumbly salad cheese 4
40D 53. Chastising syllable 3
41D 54. "Zero Dark Thirty" org. 3

Now Let's Solve the Down Clues!

Down clues go from top to bottom. Use the letters from your across answers to help!

Clue 1 Down: "1. Latvia's capital"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about geography.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a port city on the gulf of riga that is the capital and largest city of latvia; formerly a member of the hanseatic league
  • Words that mean the same thing: capital of Latvia
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RIGA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Solitary"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that being the only one; single and isolated from others
  • Words that mean the same thing: merely, but, simply
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ONLY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Aid in solving a mystery"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a slight indication
  • Words that mean the same thing: clew, hint, cue
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CLUE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Dennings of "2 Broke Girls""

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the leaves of the shrub catha edulis which are chewed like tobacco or used to make tea; has the effect of a euphoric stimulant
  • Words that mean the same thing: qat, cat, quat
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: KAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Land between Norway and Finland"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a scandinavian kingdom in the eastern part of the scandinavian peninsula
  • Words that mean the same thing: Kingdom of Sweden, Sverige
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SWEDEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Couches"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an upholstered seat for more than one person
  • Words that mean the same thing: sofa, couch, lounge
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SOFAS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Word before "the tables" or "the tide""

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a circular segment of a curve
  • Words that mean the same thing: bit, flex, wrick
  • The opposite would be: unbend
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TURN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Grow older"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that how long something has existed
  • Words that mean the same thing: eld, geezerhood, senesce
  • The opposite would be: rejuvenate
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AGE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Nonbinary pronoun pair"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: THEYTHEM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. "... and the list goes on""

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that additional unspecified odds and ends; more of the same
  • Words that mean the same thing: and so on, etc., and so forth
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ETCETERA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Opposite of loose"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that pulled or drawn tight
  • Words that mean the same thing: tight
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TAUT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Disney princess voiced by Idina Menzel"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ELSA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. Safeguards for tightrope walkers"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a computer network consisting of a worldwide network of computer networks that use the tcp/ip network protocols to facilitate data transmission and exchange
  • Words that mean the same thing: lucre, network, sack up
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NETS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "18. Official bird of Hawaii"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NENE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "19. Genetic "messenger""

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (biochemistry) a long linear polymer of nucleotides found in the nucleus but mainly in the cytoplasm of a cell where it is associated with microsomes; it transmits genetic information from dna to the cytoplasm and controls certain chemical processes in the cell
  • Words that mean the same thing: ribonucleic acid
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RNA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "23. Excite, as curiosity"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that tightly woven fabric with raised cords
  • Words that mean the same thing: temper, offend, irritation
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PIQUE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "24. Played a part on stage"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that perform an action, or work out or perform (an action)
  • Words that mean the same thing: playact, pretend, act
  • The opposite would be: refrain
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACTED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "25. One-named R&B singer with the 1999 6x platinum album "Unleash the Dragon""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SISQO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "26. Follow shortly thereafter"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that issue or terminate (in a specified way, state, etc.); end
  • Words that mean the same thing: result
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ENSUE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "27. Volcanic emissions"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the residue that remains when something is burned
  • Words that mean the same thing: ash tree, ash
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ASHES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "28. Thin and graceful"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that moving and bending with ease
  • Words that mean the same thing: lithesome, supple, svelte
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LITHE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "29. One just passing time"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that person who does no work
  • Words that mean the same thing: loafer, do-nothing, bum
  • The opposite would be: busy
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IDLER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "30. Secondhand"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that put into service; make work or employ for a particular purpose or for its inherent or natural purpose
  • Words that mean the same thing: exploited, utilize, utilise
  • The opposite would be: misused
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: USED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "31. Group in a playbill"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the actors in a play
  • Words that mean the same thing: plaster cast, throw away, disgorge
  • The opposite would be: keep down
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CAST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "32. Starting squad"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ATEAM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "33. Arrival"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the beginning or early stages
  • Words that mean the same thing: onslaught, onrush, oncoming
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ONSET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "35. Business announcement involving billions of dollars"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MEGADEAL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "36. It's all about me, me, me"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an intense and irresistible love for yourself and concern for your own needs
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EGOMANIA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "41. Former Iranian leader"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that title for the former hereditary monarch of iran
  • Words that mean the same thing: Shah of Iran
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SHAH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "42. Prime-time hour"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NINEPM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "43. Sweltering"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that used of physical heat; having a high or higher than desirable temperature or giving off heat or feeling or causing a sensation of heat or burning
  • Words that mean the same thing: live, raging, spicy
  • The opposite would be: cold
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "44. One piece of evidence of a planet's habitability"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that binary compound that occurs at room temperature as a clear colorless odorless tasteless liquid; freezes into ice below 0 degrees centigrade and boils above 100 degrees centigrade; widely used as a solvent
  • Words that mean the same thing: pee, piss, water supply
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: WATER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "45. Address God"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that address a deity, a prophet, a saint or an object of worship; say a prayer
  • Words that mean the same thing: implore, beg
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PRAY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "46. Top-notch"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AONE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "47. Classic Pontiac muscle cars"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GTOS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "48. Rapper J. ___"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a hardy cabbage with coarse curly leaves that do not form a head
  • Words that mean the same thing: borecole, kail, kale
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: COLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "49. Serenade, e.g."

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a short musical composition with words
  • Words that mean the same thing: birdcall, Sung, call
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SONG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Down: "50. Big night for a high schooler"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a formal ball held for a school class toward the end of the academic year
  • Words that mean the same thing: promenade
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PROM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Down: "51. Crumbly salad cheese"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FETA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 40 Down: "53. Chastising syllable"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that utter `tsk,' `tut,' or `tut-tut,' as in disapproval
  • Words that mean the same thing: tut-tut, tut
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TSK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 41 Down: "54. "Zero Dark Thirty" org."

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an independent agency of the united states government responsible for collecting and coordinating intelligence and counterintelligence activities abroad in the national interest; headed by the director of central intelligence under the supervision of the president and national security council
  • Words that mean the same thing: Central Intelligence Agency
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CIA

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 56 73.7%
Short Answer 14 18.4%
Geography 2 2.6%
Sports 2 2.6%
Celebrity/Entertainment 2 2.6%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 35
Down Clues 41
Total Clues 76
Average Answer Length 5.0 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 15 letters

Fun Tips to Solve Crossword Puzzles!

  • Start with short words first - they're usually easier!
  • Look for clues with blanks to fill in - these are like fill-in-the-blank questions at school
  • When letters cross, they must be the same in both words - this helps you check if you're right!
  • Today is Monday, and these puzzles are usually medium level
  • Most clues today are about general knowledge
  • The average word today has about 4 letters
  • Remember: It's okay to take breaks and come back later with fresh eyes!
  • Ask someone for help if you need it - crosswords are more fun with friends!

Explore more crossword solutions and helpful guides to improve your solving skills:

Disclaimer: Crossword clues are property of The New York Times. This educational content is designed to help puzzle enthusiasts improve their solving skills.

Last Updated: September 14, 2025 at 08:37 PM