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Friday, August 14, 2026

Today's Trivia Week 2 NYT Mini Crossword August 14, 2026 Answers

Today's Trivia Week 2 NYT Mini Crossword August 14, 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: August 19 2021 NYT Clues Solutions | December 10 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | April 26 2021 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Puzzle

NYT Mini Crossword solutions for August 14, 2026
NYT Mini Crossword Grid - Friday, August 14, 2026
Puzzle Statistics
Detail Information
Date August 14, 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 61. Spanish muralist José María ___
2 Across 37. Mom-and-pop group
3 Across 46. Recollection, say
4 Across 30. Bunk alternatives
5 Across 14. "There's my cue"
6 Across 5. Discovers
7 Across 59. Berkshire town
8 Across 51. Explode, as a paintball
9 Across 33. Because
10 Across 16. Superbright

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: "61. Spanish muralist José María ___"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: S__T

Answer:

Click to reveal SERT


2 Across: "37. Mom-and-pop group"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal FAM


3 Across: "46. Recollection, say"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal ANECDOTE


4 Across: "30. Bunk alternatives"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: C__S

Answer:

Click to reveal COTS


5 Across: "14. "There's my cue""

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: I__N

Answer:

Click to reveal IMON


6 Across: "5. Discovers"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 9 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: S_______T

Answer:

Click to reveal SNIFFSOUT


7 Across: "59. Berkshire town"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: E__N

Answer:

Click to reveal ETON


8 Across: "51. Explode, as a paintball"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 7 letters
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: G_____T

Answer:

Click to reveal GOSPLAT


9 Across: "33. Because"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: S___E

Answer:

Click to reveal SINCE


10 Across: "16. Superbright"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: N__N

Answer:

Click to reveal NEON

Down Clues - 10 Total

These clues go from top to bottom in the puzzle.

Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 56. Project
2 Down 25. Philosophy of "Keep things simple," in a sense
3 Down 51. Deep cut
4 Down 49. What might go straight to the heart?
5 Down 41. Tastes
6 Down 17. Unfruitful
7 Down 9. Honey is high in this
8 Down 32. Plot device?
9 Down 13. "... plus ___"
10 Down 55. Parlor offering, for short

Hints and Answers for Down Clues

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


1 Down: "56. Project"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'J' and ends with 'T'
  • Another word like this: bump

Answer:

Click to reveal JUT


2 Down: "25. Philosophy of "Keep things simple," in a sense"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 11 letters
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: O_________R

Answer:

Click to reveal OCCAMSRAZOR


3 Down: "51. Deep cut"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'H'
  • Word pattern: G__H

Answer:

Click to reveal GASH


4 Down: "49. What might go straight to the heart?"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: S___T

Answer:

Click to reveal STENT


5 Down: "41. Tastes"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 7 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S_____S

Answer:

Click to reveal SAMPLES


6 Down: "17. Unfruitful"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal BARREN


7 Down: "9. Honey is high in this"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal FRUCTOSE


8 Down: "32. Plot device?"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: H__E

Answer:

Click to reveal HOSE


9 Down: "13. "... plus ___""

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'X'
  • Another word like this: task

Answer:

Click to reveal TAX


10 Down: "55. Parlor offering, for short"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'T'
  • Another word like this: sleaze

Answer:

Click to reveal TAT

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 2

When can I play the Trivia Week 2 Mini?

The Trivia Week 2 puzzle is available at 10 PM Eastern Time the night before.

How fast should I be able to solve Trivia Week 2?

Most people solve the Trivia Week 2 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 2?

No! The Trivia Week 2 NYT Mini is completely free. You don't need a subscription like the big crossword.

What makes a good Trivia Week 2 solver?

Good Trivia Week 2 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 2?

Trivia Week 2 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 14, 2026 at 05:12 AM

Search terms: NYT Mini Trivia Week, Trivia Week {week_num}, Mini crossword Trivia Week, Trivia Week answers, NYT Trivia Week, August 14 2026 mini crossword

XWordHint Crossword Answers August 14, 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: 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. ___ Plateau, home to the tomb of King Khufu 4
2A 5. Discovers 9
3A 14. "There's my cue" 4
4A 15. "Dios mío!" 9
5A 16. Superbright 4
6A 17. Couple's last coupling, perhaps 10
7A 18. Mounted warrior skilled in martial arts 7
8A 20. Retired pro wrestler Flair 3
9A 21. Sibling's cry of protest, maybe 6
10A 22. Guard for some time? 8
11A 27. Unit whose name derives from the Latin word for "heat" 7
12A 29. Completely lose it 6
13A 30. Bunk alternatives 4
14A 31. Leave a lasting mark on 4
15A 33. Because 5
16A 34. Self-doubter's question 3
17A 35. Huddling, as teammates 7
18A 37. Mom-and-pop group 3
19A 38. Rock musician Bob 5
20A 40. "Enough out of you!" 4
21A 41. Costco competitor, informally 4
22A 42. England's George V vis-à-vis Russia's Nicholas II 6
23A 44. Good places for a deep dive into research? 7
24A 46. Recollection, say 8
25A 48. Primates found only in and around Madagascar 6
26A 50. Slip 3
27A 51. Explode, as a paintball 7
28A 52. Enthusiastic cry when one's favorite song comes on the radio 10
29A 57. Idle 4
30A 58. Excessively greedy 9
31A 59. Berkshire town 4
32A 60. Of an indefinitely large number 9
33A 61. Spanish muralist José María ___ 4

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. ___ Plateau, home to the tomb of King Khufu"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an ancient egyptian city on the west bank of the nile opposite cairo; site of three great pyramids and the sphinx
  • Similar words include: El Giza, Gizeh
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GIZA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "5. Discovers"

9 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "14. "There's my cue""

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "15. "Dios mío!""

9 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "16. Superbright"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a colorless odorless gaseous element that give a red glow in a vacuum tube; one of the six inert gasses; occurs in the air in small amounts
  • Similar words include: atomic number 10, Ne
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NEON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "17. Couple's last coupling, perhaps"

10 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: __________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BREAKUPSEX

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "18. Mounted warrior skilled in martial arts"

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a japanese warrior who was a member of the feudal military aristocracy
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SAMURAI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "20. Retired pro wrestler Flair"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "21. Sibling's cry of protest, maybe"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that not fair; marked by injustice or partiality or deception
  • Similar words include: unjust
  • Opposite of: fair
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UNFAIR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "22. Guard for some time?"

8 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "27. Unit whose name derives from the Latin word for "heat""

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a unit of heat equal to the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one kilogram of water by one degree at one atmosphere pressure; used by nutritionists to characterize the energy-producing potential in food
  • Similar words include: small calorie, large calorie, nutritionist's calorie
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CALORIE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "29. Completely lose it"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "30. Bunk alternatives"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a sheath worn to protect a finger
  • Similar words include: fingerstall, crib, camp bed
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: COTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "31. Leave a lasting mark on"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

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!

15A: "33. Because"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "34. Self-doubter's question"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "35. Huddling, as teammates"

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that surround completely
  • Similar words include: introduce, put in, shut in
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: INCLOSE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "37. Mom-and-pop group"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "38. Rock musician Bob"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "40. "Enough out of you!""

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (poetic) tranquil silence
  • Similar words include: quiet, still, quiesce
  • Opposite of: louden
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HUSH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "41. Costco competitor, informally"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a guided missile fired from land or shipboard against an airborne target
  • Similar words include: SAM, surface-to-air missile
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SAMS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "42. England's George V vis-à-vis Russia's Nicholas II"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the child of your aunt or uncle
  • Similar words include: cousin-german, first cousin, full cousin
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: COUSIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "44. Good places for a deep dive into research?"

7 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "46. Recollection, say"

8 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that short account of an incident (especially a biographical one)
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ANECDOTE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "48. Primates found only in and around Madagascar"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that large-eyed arboreal prosimian having foxy faces and long furry tails
  • Similar words include: lemur
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LEMURS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "50. Slip"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that to make a mistake or be incorrect
  • Similar words include: slip, drift, mistake
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ERR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "51. Explode, as a paintball"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "52. Enthusiastic cry when one's favorite song comes on the radio"

10 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: __________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: THATSMYJAM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "57. Idle"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that be idle; exist in a changeless situation
  • Similar words include: stagnate, idle, slug
  • Opposite of: work
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LAZE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "58. Excessively greedy"

9 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that living by preying on other animals especially by catching living prey
  • Similar words include: predatory, ravening, vulturine
  • Pattern: _________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RAPACIOUS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "59. Berkshire town"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "60. Of an indefinitely large number"

9 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that last in an indefinitely numerous series
  • Similar words include: umptieth, umteenth
  • Pattern: _________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UMPTEENTH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "61. Spanish muralist José María ___"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Kitchen brand inspired by 18-Across 5
2D 2. "Seriously?!" 11
3D 3. Issue in a modern remote work setting 11
4D 4. Corn and wheat, for two 7
5D 5. Garment worn with a bodice called a choli 4
6D 6. 365th out of 365, in brief 3
7D 7. Words of comfort 5
8D 8. Not being real about 6
9D 9. Honey is high in this 8
10D 10. Deplete 3
11D 11. Yogis' utterances 3
12D 12. Purple drink ingredient at a boba tea shop 3
13D 13. "... plus ___" 3
14D 17. Unfruitful 6
15D 19. Animated 2011 film set in Brazil 3
16D 22. Person that's best left alone 7
17D 23. Wong of Netflix's "Beef" 3
18D 24. Shoot the breeze 11
19D 25. Philosophy of "Keep things simple," in a sense 11
20D 26. "How do ___ grow? They grow out of your life": Robert Penn Warren 5
21D 28. Scratch that! 4
22D 30. "Julius Caesar" role 5
23D 32. Plot device? 4
24D 35. Shimmer colorfully 8
25D 36. Hello or goodbye, abroad 6
26D 39. Computer key that might be pressed repeatedly in a panic 3
27D 41. Tastes 7
28D 43. Average Joe, in modern slang 6
29D 45. ___ Bleus, nickname for France's World Cup team 3
30D 47. Check for fit 5
31D 49. What might go straight to the heart? 5
32D 51. Deep cut 4
33D 52. Monodrama that debuted in 1989 3
34D 53. Country ___ 3
35D 54. Unwanted place for bugs 3
36D 55. Parlor offering, for short 3
37D 56. Project 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Kitchen brand inspired by 18-Across"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. "Seriously?!""

11 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IMEANCOMEON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Issue in a modern remote work setting"

11 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ZOOMFATIGUE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Corn and wheat, for two"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (botany) a plant that completes its entire life cycle within the space of a year
  • Similar words include: yearly, annual, yearbook
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ANNUALS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Garment worn with a bodice called a choli"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a dress worn primarily by hindu women; consists of several yards of light material that is draped around the body
  • Similar words include: saree
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SARI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. 365th out of 365, in brief"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Words of comfort"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Not being real about"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that make a copy of with the intent to deceive
  • Similar words include: wangle, forge, talk through one's hat
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FAKING

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Honey is high in this"

8 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a simple sugar found in honey and in many ripe fruits
  • Similar words include: levulose, fruit sugar, laevulose
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FRUCTOSE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Deplete"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a watery solution of sugars, salts, and minerals that circulates through the vascular system of a plant
  • Similar words include: tire, muggins, fool
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SAP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Yogis' utterances"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Purple drink ingredient at a boba tea shop"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "13. "... plus ___""

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that charge against a citizen's person or property or activity for the support of government
  • Similar words include: assess, task, revenue enhancement
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TAX

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "17. Unfruitful"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an uninhabited wilderness that is worthless for cultivation
  • Similar words include: waste, destitute, desolate
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BARREN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "19. Animated 2011 film set in Brazil"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the former capital and 2nd largest city of brazil; chief brazilian port; famous as a tourist attraction
  • Similar words include: Rio de Janeiro
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RIO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "22. Person that's best left alone"

7 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that one who lives in solitude
  • Similar words include: troglodyte, withdrawn, reclusive
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RECLUSE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "23. Wong of Netflix's "Beef""

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that united states prizefighter who won the world heavyweight championship three times (born in 1942)
  • Similar words include: Muhammad Ali, Cassius Clay, Cassius Marcellus Clay
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ALI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "24. Shoot the breeze"

11 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that unconsciously replace fact with fantasy in one's memory
  • Similar words include: natter, chatter, consult
  • Pattern: ___________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CONFABULATE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "25. Philosophy of "Keep things simple," in a sense"

11 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OCCAMSRAZOR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "26. "How do ___ grow? They grow out of your life": Robert Penn Warren"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a composition written in metrical feet forming rhythmical lines
  • Similar words include: poem, verse form
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: POEMS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "28. Scratch that!"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a contagious skin infection caused by the itch mite; characterized by persistent itching and skin irritation
  • Similar words include: itchiness, scratch, urge
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ITCH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "30. "Julius Caesar" role"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "32. Plot device?"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that socks and stockings and tights collectively (the british include underwear)
  • Similar words include: hose down, hosiery, hosepipe
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOSE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "35. Shimmer colorfully"

8 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that be iridescent
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IRIDESCE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "36. Hello or goodbye, abroad"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "39. Computer key that might be pressed repeatedly in a panic"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "41. Tastes"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a small part of something intended as representative of the whole
  • Similar words include: taste, sample, try
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SAMPLES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "43. Average Joe, in modern slang"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "45. ___ Bleus, nickname for France's World Cup team"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a chronic inflammatory collagen disease affecting connective tissue (skin or joints)
  • Similar words include: LE, lupus erythematosus
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "47. Check for fit"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "49. What might go straight to the heart?"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a slender tube inserted inside a tubular body part (as a blood vessel) to provide support during and after surgical anastomosis
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STENT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "51. Deep cut"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a wound made by cutting
  • Similar words include: slice, slash, cut
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GASH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "52. Monodrama that debuted in 1989"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "53. Country ___"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that meat cut from the thigh of a hog (usually smoked)
  • Similar words include: overact, ham actor, gammon
  • Opposite of: underact
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HAM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "54. Unwanted place for bugs"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "55. Parlor offering, for short"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that tastelessness by virtue of being cheap and vulgar
  • Similar words include: intertwine, Thematic Apperception Test, cheapness
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37D: "56. Project"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that something that bulges out or is protuberant or projects from its surroundings
  • Similar words include: project, bulge, prominence
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: JUT

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
37 Down Clues
70 Total Clues

More NYT Crossword Help

Looking for more puzzle solutions? Check out our comprehensive archive of NYT crossword hints and answers. We update daily with expert analysis and solving strategies.

Disclaimer: Crossword clues and grid © The New York Times. This site provides hints and educational content for puzzle enthusiasts. XWordHint is not affiliated with The New York Times.

Last updated: August 14, 2026 at 05:11 AM

Saturday, January 31, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers January 31, 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: Tricky

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. Grappling is used in this 11
2A 12. Ones who handle minor health problems? 13
3A 14. Dessert introduced to the U.S. in the 1780s, after Thomas Jefferson discovered it in France 15
4A 16. Like someone in pointe shoes, maybe 5
5A 17. ___-di-dah 3
6A 18. Say "hey," slangily 5
7A 19. They're at the tops of some ladders, informally 4
8A 20. Offering that's fresh off the press? 5
9A 22. Pyroclastic material 4
10A 23. Sheet music abbr. 3
11A 24. Deliberate 7
12A 26. Sex Pistols song disparaging the band's former label 3
13A 27. Foundation of music? 8
14A 29. Fun activity for a summer day 6
15A 31. Dice rolls from Jail to Free Parking, in Monopoly 4
16A 32. Serving of meat loaf, maybe 4
17A 33. Evil spirits 6
18A 36. Accumulates 8
19A 40. "Silly me!" 3
20A 41. Barely gets (by) 7
21A 43. Org. associated with the Wanamaker Trophy 3
22A 44. Menu bar option 4
23A 46. Tennis legend who won the French Open when she was just 16 5
24A 47. Season 4
25A 48. Protection, as from an organization 5
26A 50. Jaguar, e.g. 3
27A 51. To whom you might say "I wish ..." 5
28A 52. Southern California site whose 1909 opening was accompanied by a visit from the U.S.S. Albany 15
29A 55. Attraction at the 52-Across 13
30A 56. Old man? 11

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Grappling is used in this"

11 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MARTIALARTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "12. Ones who handle minor health problems?"

13 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a specialist in the care of babies
  • Similar words include: baby doctor, pediatrician, paediatrician
  • Pattern: _____________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PEDIATRICIANS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "14. Dessert introduced to the U.S. in the 1780s, after Thomas Jefferson discovered it in France"

15 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "16. Like someone in pointe shoes, maybe"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "17. ___-di-dah"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the syllable naming the sixth (submediant) note of a major or minor scale in solmization
  • Similar words include: la
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LAH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "18. Say "hey," slangily"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "19. They're at the tops of some ladders, informally"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the corporate executive responsible for the operations of the firm; reports to a board of directors; may appoint other managers (including a president)
  • Similar words include: CEO, chief executive officer, chief operating officer
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CEOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "20. Offering that's fresh off the press?"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a beverage made from juice pressed from apples
  • Similar words include: cyder
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CIDER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "22. Pyroclastic material"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the scum formed by oxidation at the surface of molten metals
  • Similar words include: dross, scoria
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SLAG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "23. Sheet music abbr."

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "24. Deliberate"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that have the will and intention to carry out some action
  • Similar words include: contrive, design, plan
  • Opposite of: unplanned
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PLANNED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "26. Sex Pistols song disparaging the band's former label"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "27. Foundation of music?"

8 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "29. Fun activity for a summer day"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a day devoted to an outdoor social gathering
  • Similar words include: breeze, duck soup, piece of cake
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PICNIC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "31. Dice rolls from Jail to Free Parking, in Monopoly"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the cardinal number that is the sum of nine and one; the base of the decimal system
  • Similar words include: X, 10, ten
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TENS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "32. Serving of meat loaf, maybe"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that block consisting of a thick piece of something
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SLAB

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "33. Evil spirits"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a male demon believed to lie on sleeping persons and to have sexual intercourse with sleeping women
  • Similar words include: incubus, nightmare
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: INCUBI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "36. Accumulates"

8 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "40. "Silly me!""

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the syllable naming the first (tonic) note of any major scale in solmization
  • Similar words include: do, ut
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DOH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "41. Barely gets (by)"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a harsh noise made by scraping
  • Similar words include: scratch, scrape up, kowtow
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCRAPES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "43. Org. associated with the Wanamaker Trophy"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "44. Menu bar option"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that prepare for publication or presentation by correcting, revising, or adapting
  • Similar words include: cut, redact, delete
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EDIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "46. Tennis legend who won the French Open when she was just 16"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that united states tennis player (born in yugoslavia in 1973)
  • Similar words include: Monica Seles
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SELES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "47. Season"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a compound formed by replacing hydrogen in an acid by a metal (or a radical that acts like a metal)
  • Similar words include: table salt, common salt, salinity
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SALT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "48. Protection, as from an organization"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that kindly endorsement and guidance
  • Similar words include: auspices, protection, egis
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AEGIS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "50. Jaguar, e.g."

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a motor vehicle with four wheels; usually propelled by an internal combustion engine
  • Similar words include: elevator car, automobile, railcar
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "51. To whom you might say "I wish ...""

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (islam) an invisible spirit mentioned in the koran and believed by muslims to inhabit the earth and influence mankind by appearing in the form of humans or animals
  • Similar words include: djinny, djinni, djinn
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GENIE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "52. Southern California site whose 1909 opening was accompanied by a visit from the U.S.S. Albany"

15 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "55. Attraction at the 52-Across"

13 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "56. Old man?"

11 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that extinct robust human of middle paleolithic in europe and western asia
  • Similar words include: Neandertal man, neandertal, oafish
  • Pattern: ___________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NEANDERTHAL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Guides 7
2D 2. "Peace out!" 5
3D 3. Perturb 4
4D 4. Chess legend Mikhail ___ 3
5D 5. Bolognese, Parmesan, etc. 8
6D 6. Daughter of King Minos, in myth 7
7D 7. Tree growth indicative of good air quality 6
8D 8. Part of a great deal? 3
9D 9. Opulent 4
10D 10. Tubers from which a gluten-free type of flour is derived 5
11D 11. Herman ___, Dutch ophthalmologist known for his visual acuity testing 7
12D 12. Cafe chain 6
13D 13. Major product of Milan 6
14D 14. English lesson subject, for short 5
15D 15. "Science is ___ that works": Kurt Vonnegut 5
16D 20. Training courses 7
17D 21. Yes and no, say 7
18D 24. Common folk 5
19D 25. Rings 5
20D 28. Apt name for a chef 3
21D 30. Compound in some sleep aids, familiarly 3
22D 32. Largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area 8
23D 33. What do you have in mind? 5
24D 34. "Sorry, honey" 6
25D 35. French bun 7
26D 36. Parity 7
27D 37. Variety of dog associated with King Charles 7
28D 38. More unpleasant 6
29D 39. ___ Noster (the Lord's Prayer) 5
30D 42. Capture, in a way 6
31D 45. Mr. or Mrs. 5
32D 47. Bodily partitions 5
33D 49. Room in an adobe 4
34D 51. Long cut 4
35D 53. Chaps 3
36D 54. One of three in the Horatio Henry Couldery painting "Curiosity" 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Guides"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a wise and trusted guide and advisor
  • Similar words include: wise man, mentor
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MENTORS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. "Peace out!""

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a farewell remark
  • Similar words include: good-by, bye-bye, so long
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ADIOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Perturb"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that cause annoyance in; disturb, especially by minor irritations
  • Similar words include: bother, rag, devil
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RILE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Chess legend Mikhail ___"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Bolognese, Parmesan, etc."

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a native or inhabitant of italy
  • Similar words include: Italian
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ITALIANS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Daughter of King Minos, in myth"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that beautiful daughter of minos and pasiphae; she fell in love with theseus and gave him the thread with which he found his way out of the minotaur's labyrinth
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ARIADNE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Tree growth indicative of good air quality"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of several eruptive skin diseases characterized by hard thick lesions grouped together and resembling lichens growing on rocks
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LICHEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Part of a great deal?"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the smallest whole number or a numeral representing this number
  • Similar words include: Allied Command Europe, unity, hotshot
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ACE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Opulent"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that people who have possessions and wealth (considered as a group)
  • Similar words include: full-bodied, robust, plentiful
  • Opposite of: poor people, lean
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RICH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Tubers from which a gluten-free type of flour is derived"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that edible starchy tuberous root of taro plants
  • Similar words include: taro root, dalo, eddo
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TAROS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Herman ___, Dutch ophthalmologist known for his visual acuity testing"

7 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that dutch ophthalmologist who introduced the snellen chart to study visual acuity (1834-1908)
  • Similar words include: Hermann Snellen
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SNELLEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Cafe chain"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "13. Major product of Milan"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that highly seasoned fatty sausage of pork and beef usually dried
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SALAMI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "14. English lesson subject, for short"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "15. "Science is ___ that works": Kurt Vonnegut"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any art that invokes supernatural powers
  • Similar words include: legerdemain, magical, deception
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MAGIC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "20. Training courses"

7 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a medical establishment run by a group of medical specialists
  • Similar words include: clinic
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CLINICS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "21. Yes and no, say"

7 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a statement (either spoken or written) that is made to reply to a question or request or criticism or accusation
  • Similar words include: respond, answer, response
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: REPLIES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "24. Common folk"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that one of the common people
  • Similar words include: plebeian, pleb
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PLEBS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "25. Rings"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the face of a timepiece; graduated to show the hours
  • Similar words include: telephone dial, dial
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DIALS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "28. Apt name for a chef"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "30. Compound in some sleep aids, familiarly"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "32. Largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that one of greater rank or station or quality
  • Similar words include: higher-ranking, superscript, ranking
  • Opposite of: subscript, inferior
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SUPERIOR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "33. What do you have in mind?"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about
  • Similar words include: musical theme, estimation, approximation
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IDEAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "34. "Sorry, honey""

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

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25D: "35. French bun"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a roll of hair worn at the nape of the neck
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CHIGNON

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26D: "36. Parity"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a state of equilibrium
  • Similar words include: equalizer, equipoise, Libra
  • Opposite of: unbalance, imbalance
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BALANCE

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27D: "37. Variety of dog associated with King Charles"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of several breeds of small to medium-sized gun dogs with a long silky coat and long frilled ears
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SPANIEL

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28D: "38. More unpleasant"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that displeasing to the senses
  • Similar words include: worthless, surly, horrible
  • Opposite of: beautiful
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UGLIER

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29D: "39. ___ Noster (the Lord's Prayer)"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an informal use of the latin word for father; sometimes used by british schoolboys or used facetiously
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PATER

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30D: "42. Capture, in a way"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that anything (such as a document or a phonograph record or a photograph) providing permanent evidence of or information about past events
  • Similar words include: record book, memorialise, book
  • Opposite of: erase
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RECORD

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31D: "45. Mr. or Mrs."

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a heading that names a statute or legislative bill; may give a brief summary of the matters it deals with
  • Similar words include: claim, rubric, entitle
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TITLE

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32D: "47. Bodily partitions"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (anatomy) a dividing partition between two tissues or cavities
  • Similar words include: septum
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SEPTA

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33D: "49. Room in an adobe"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

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34D: "51. Long cut"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a wound made by cutting
  • Similar words include: cut, slash, slice
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GASH

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35D: "53. Chaps"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the force of workers available
  • Similar words include: humanity, humankind, Man
  • Opposite of: civilian, woman
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MEN

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36D: "54. One of three in the Horatio Henry Couldery painting "Curiosity""

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that feline mammal usually having thick soft fur and no ability to roar: domestic cats; wildcats
  • Similar words include: bozo, cat-o'-nine-tails, Caterpillar
  • Opposite of: keep down
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CAT

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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

30 Across Clues
36 Down Clues
66 Total Clues

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Last updated: January 31, 2026 at 04:47 AM