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Showing posts sorted by date for query OPS. Sort by relevance Show all posts

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers May 05, 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. Tried-and-true choice, informally 4
2A 5. It's perfect for some musicians 5
3A 10. Motorcyclist's invitation 5
4A 15. Asia's shrinking ___ Sea 4
5A 16. Ruckus 5
6A 17. Where Boise is 5
7A 18. It's a piece of cake 10
8A 20. Computer geeks 5
9A 21. Source of some South American wool 5
10A 22. Alaska politico Palin 5
11A 24. ___-Ball 4
12A 25. Alternative to a Word doc 3
13A 27. It's child's play 9
14A 29. Glassblower, e.g. 7
15A 33. One of three statistical averages 4
16A 34. M.L.B. stadium demolished in 2009 4
17A 35. Ones always blowing off steam? 7
18A 39. Altar promise 3
19A 42. It's a no-brainer 16
20A 45. Starchy tuber 3
21A 46. 2016 Ariana Grande love song 7
22A 47. Drug buster 4
23A 48. Heavy, spiked club 4
24A 50. Bared one's teeth, say 7
25A 52. It's a breeze 9
26A 57. ___-fi 3
27A 58. Sudden or impulsive, as a decision 4
28A 59. Lipstick blunder 5
29A 61. Intermittently offered fast-food pork sandwich 5
30A 65. Oscars host, e.g. 5
31A 67. It's a walk in the park 10
32A 69. Abandon prematurely, as a mission 5
33A 70. Piano exercise 5
34A 71. Fencing blade 4
35A 72. "OMG, same!" 5
36A 73. About 50.7% of all Americans 5
37A 74. Like typical communicators in sign language 4

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Tried-and-true choice, informally"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "5. It's perfect for some musicians"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the property of sound that varies with variation in the frequency of vibration
  • Similar words include: auction pitch, tilt, toss
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PITCH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "10. Motorcyclist's invitation"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "15. Asia's shrinking ___ Sea"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "16. Ruckus"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "17. Where Boise is"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a state in the rocky mountains
  • Similar words include: Gem State, ID
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IDAHO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "18. It's a piece of cake"

10 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that small finger-shaped sponge cake
  • Pattern: __________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LADYFINGER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "20. Computer geeks"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a school teaching mechanical and industrial arts and the applied sciences
  • Similar words include: technical school, tech
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TECHS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "21. Source of some South American wool"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that wild or domesticated south american cud-chewing animal related to camels but smaller and lacking a hump
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LLAMA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "22. Alaska politico Palin"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (old testament) the wife of abraham and mother of isaac
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SARAH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "24. ___-Ball"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "25. Alternative to a Word doc"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "27. It's child's play"

9 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "29. Glassblower, e.g."

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a skilled worker who practices some trade or handicraft
  • Similar words include: craftsman, artificer, journeyman
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ARTISAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "33. One of three statistical averages"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an average of n numbers computed by adding some function of the numbers and dividing by some function of n
  • Similar words include: tight, signify, mean value
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MEAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "34. M.L.B. stadium demolished in 2009"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "35. Ones always blowing off steam?"

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a metal pot for stewing or boiling; usually has a lid
  • Similar words include: kettleful, kettle, boiler
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: KETTLES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "39. Altar promise"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an artificial language that is a revision and simplification of esperanto
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IDO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "42. It's a no-brainer"

16 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ________________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HEADLESSHORSEMAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "45. Starchy tuber"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that edible tuber of any of several yams
  • Similar words include: yam plant
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: YAM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "46. 2016 Ariana Grande love song"

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "47. Drug buster"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a lawman concerned with narcotics violations
  • Similar words include: narcotics agent, nark
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NARC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "48. Heavy, spiked club"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (trademark) a liquid that temporarily disables a person; prepared as an aerosol and sprayed in the face, it irritates the eyes and causes dizziness and immobilization
  • Similar words include: Chemical Mace, macebearer, macer
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MACE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "50. Bared one's teeth, say"

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that utter in an angry, sharp, or abrupt tone
  • Similar words include: snarl up, entangle, knotty
  • Opposite of: disentangle, unsnarl
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SNARLED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "52. It's a breeze"

9 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "57. ___-fi"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "58. Sudden or impulsive, as a decision"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any red eruption of the skin
  • Similar words include: foolhardy, blizzard, efflorescence
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RASH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "59. Lipstick blunder"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that slanderous defamation
  • Similar words include: calumniate, daub, smudge
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SMEAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "61. Intermittently offered fast-food pork sandwich"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "65. Oscars host, e.g."

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a person who acts as host at formal occasions (makes an introductory speech and introduces other speakers)
  • Similar words include: compere, host, master of ceremonies
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EMCEE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "67. It's a walk in the park"

10 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "69. Abandon prematurely, as a mission"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the act of terminating a project or procedure before it is completed
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ABORT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "70. Piano exercise"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a short composition for a solo instrument; intended as an exercise or to demonstrate technical virtuosity
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ETUDE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "71. Fencing blade"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a fencing sword similar to a foil but with a heavier blade
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EPEE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "72. "OMG, same!""

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a capacious bag or basket
  • Similar words include: total, tote, tug
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TOTES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36A: "73. About 50.7% of all Americans"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an adult female person (as opposed to a man)
  • Similar words include: woman, cleaning woman, adult female
  • Opposite of: man
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: WOMEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37A: "74. Like typical communicators in sign language"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that people who have severe hearing impairments
  • Similar words include: indifferent, deafen
  • Opposite of: hearing
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DEAF

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Effrontery 4
2D 2. Not in writing, as an exam 4
3D 3. Magician's "Look what I did!" 4
4D 4. International competition in math, science and other disciplines 8
5D 5. Greek letter that looks like an "O" superimposed with an "I" 3
6D 6. Charged particles 4
7D 7. Roman robes 5
8D 8. French sweetheart 5
9D 9. Prohibited in Islam 5
10D 10. Chart-topper 3
11D 11. Texas setting for 2004's "Friday Night Lights" 6
12D 12. Mule or burro 10
13D 13. "Fancy seeing you here!" 5
14D 14. They may be counted when taking attendance 5
15D 19. Bell-bottom jeans and pet rocks, in the 1970s 4
16D 23. Undeniable successes 8
17D 26. Media misinformation 8
18D 28. Loch ___ monster 4
19D 29. Like a campfire by morning, typically 4
20D 30. Flightless bird from South America 4
21D 31. Figure in a school pep rally 10
22D 32. Empty ___ (home after the kids go off to college) 4
23D 36. Chinese general on a menu 3
24D 37. "___ will be done" 3
25D 38. English facilities 4
26D 40. "Don't you ___!" 4
27D 41. How much 1990s music was issued 4
28D 43. Pet pests 4
29D 44. Having added nutrients 8
30D 49. Obey, with "to" 6
31D 51. Apex 4
32D 52. Pay for at a restaurant, say 5
33D 53. Title role for Sylvester Stallone 5
34D 54. "This is my first day on the job" 5
35D 55. "Groovy" 5
36D 56. Unit of information 5
37D 60. Like checking a dating app while you're on a date 4
38D 62. Fully matured 4
39D 63. Swedish furniture supplier 4
40D 64. Complaint, informally 4
41D 66. Arrivals in the 2016 thriller "Arrival," in brief 3
42D 68. ___ Faire (historical event) 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Effrontery"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an open sore on the back of a horse caused by ill-fitting or badly adjusted saddle
  • Similar words include: saddle sore, freshness, irk
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GALL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Not in writing, as an exam"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an examination conducted by spoken communication
  • Similar words include: viva voce, viva, oral exam
  • Opposite of: aboral, anal
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ORAL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Magician's "Look what I did!""

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. International competition in math, science and other disciplines"

8 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that one of the four-year intervals between olympic games; used to reckon time in ancient greece for twelve centuries beginning in 776 bc
  • Similar words include: Olympics, Olympic Games
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OLYMPIAD

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Greek letter that looks like an "O" superimposed with an "I""

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the 21st letter of the greek alphabet
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PHI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Charged particles"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a particle that is electrically charged (positive or negative); an atom or molecule or group that has lost or gained one or more electrons
  • Similar words include: ion
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IONS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Roman robes"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a one-piece cloak worn by men in ancient rome
  • Similar words include: toga
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TOGAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. French sweetheart"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Prohibited in Islam"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Chart-topper"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (baseball) a successful stroke in an athletic contest (especially in baseball)
  • Similar words include: stumble, reach, slay
  • Opposite of: miss
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Texas setting for 2004's "Friday Night Lights""

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a port city of south central ukraine on an arm of the black sea
  • Similar words include: Odesa
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ODESSA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Mule or burro"

10 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "13. "Fancy seeing you here!""

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "14. They may be counted when taking attendance"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the organ of smell and entrance to the respiratory tract; the prominent part of the face of man or other mammals
  • Similar words include: horn in, wind, pry
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NOSES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "19. Bell-bottom jeans and pet rocks, in the 1970s"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an interest followed with exaggerated zeal
  • Similar words include: craze, rage, cult
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FADS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "23. Undeniable successes"

8 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "26. Media misinformation"

8 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "28. Loch ___ monster"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a strip of land projecting into a body of water
  • Similar words include: cape
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NESS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "29. Like a campfire by morning, typically"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that of a light grey
  • Similar words include: ash-grey, ash-gray
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASHY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "30. Flightless bird from South America"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that fertility goddess in ancient greek mythology; wife of cronus and mother of zeus; identified with roman ops and cybele of ancient asia minor
  • Similar words include: nandu, Pterocnemia pennata, Rhea americana
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RHEA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "31. Figure in a school pep rally"

10 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "32. Empty ___ (home after the kids go off to college)"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a structure in which animals lay eggs or give birth to their young
  • Similar words include: snuggle, draw close, cuddle
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NEST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "36. Chinese general on a menu"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "37. "___ will be done""

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "38. English facilities"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that austrian architect (1870-1933)
  • Similar words include: closet, Adolf Loos, water closet
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LOOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "40. "Don't you ___!""

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a challenge to do something dangerous or foolhardy
  • Similar words include: defy, presume, make bold
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DARE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "41. How much 1990s music was issued"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "43. Pet pests"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that wingless usually flattened bloodsucking insect parasitic on warm-blooded animals
  • Similar words include: bird louse, worm, dirt ball
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LICE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "44. Having added nutrients"

8 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that make better or improve in quality
  • Similar words include: enrich
  • Opposite of: deprive, impoverish
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ENRICHED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "49. Obey, with "to""

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that be compatible or in accordance with
  • Similar words include: bind, bond, hold fast
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ADHERE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "51. Apex"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the highest level or degree attainable; the highest stage of development
  • Similar words include: vertex, summit, pinnacle
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ACME

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "52. Pay for at a restaurant, say"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that something considered choice to eat
  • Similar words include: care for, plow, deal
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TREAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "53. Title role for Sylvester Stallone"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "54. "This is my first day on the job""

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "55. "Groovy""

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "56. Unit of information"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an item of factual information derived from measurement or research
  • Similar words include: data point
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DATUM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37D: "60. Like checking a dating app while you're on a date"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that socially incorrect in behavior
  • Similar words include: uncivil, unmannered, underbred
  • Opposite of: civil
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RUDE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

38D: "62. Fully matured"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that fully developed or matured and ready to be eaten or used
  • Similar words include: right, advanced, mature
  • Opposite of: green
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RIPE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

39D: "63. Swedish furniture supplier"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

40D: "64. Complaint, informally"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that cattle that are reared for their meat
  • Similar words include: gripe, bellyache, bitch
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BEEF

Remember this word for future puzzles!

41D: "66. Arrivals in the 2016 thriller "Arrival," in brief"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

42D: "68. ___ Faire (historical event)"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

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

37 Across Clues
42 Down Clues
79 Total Clues

More NYT Crossword Help

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Last updated: May 05, 2026 at 06:01 AM

Tuesday, March 3, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers March 03, 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: Challenging

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. Garam ___ (South Asian spice blend) 6
2A 7. Historic tree in Boston Common 3
3A 10. Stinging, as an odor 5
4A 15. Notices 6
5A 16. Not worth a ___ 3
6A 17. He-Man's superheroine twin sister 5
7A 18. Intentionally cause drama 10
8A 20. Classical Indian stringed instrument 5
9A 21. Painting and sculpture 4
10A 22. Actor McKellen who played Magneto 3
11A 23. "Don't you agree with me?," informally 7
12A 25. "Come to our rescue!" 3
13A 26. Learn all the latest info 12
14A 28. Image problem? 4
15A 30. "Say it ___ so!" 4
16A 31. Is awesome, in slang 5
17A 33. Online connection 4
18A 34. Tie-dyed bit of attire, often 3
19A 37. "Before we discuss other matters ..." or a hint to the starts of 18-, 26-, 47- and 60-Across 16
20A 42. Word after photo or covert 3
21A 43. Regrets 4
22A 44. Defeats going away 5
23A 45. Cheeky attitude 4
24A 46. Southern cornbread 4
25A 47. Promgoers' luxurious rides 12
26A 53. Kind of oil extracted from hemp, for short 3
27A 56. "They already left" 7
28A 57. Scorching 3
29A 58. Black bits in cookies and cream 4
30A 59. Beneath 5
31A 60. Present for an expectant mom or bride-to-be 10
32A 63. Brother's daughter 5
33A 64. Caller of balls and strikes 3
34A 65. Person with mainstream likes, pejoratively 6
35A 66. Residents of Edinburgh and Glasgow 5
36A 67. "The Tell-Tale Heart" author 3
37A 68. Sounds from baby robins 6

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Garam ___ (South Asian spice blend)"

6 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "7. Historic tree in Boston Common"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of various trees of the genus ulmus: important timber or shade trees
  • Similar words include: elm tree, elmwood
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ELM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "10. Stinging, as an odor"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that strong and sharp
  • Similar words include: acid, blistering, virulent
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ACRID

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "15. Notices"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that catch sight of
  • Similar words include: descry, spy, spot
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ESPIES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "16. Not worth a ___"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a former french coin of low denomination; often used of any small amount of money
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SOU

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "17. He-Man's superheroine twin sister"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "18. Intentionally cause drama"

10 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "20. Classical Indian stringed instrument"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a stringed instrument of india; has a long neck and movable frets; has 6 or 7 metal strings for playing and usually 13 resonating strings
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SITAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "21. Painting and sculpture"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that studies intended to provide general knowledge and intellectual skills (rather than occupational or professional skills)
  • Similar words include: artistry, fine art, artistic creation
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ARTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "22. Actor McKellen who played Magneto"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "23. "Don't you agree with me?," informally"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "25. "Come to our rescue!""

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an internationally recognized distress signal in radio code
  • Similar words include: so, sol, soh
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "26. Learn all the latest info"

12 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "28. Image problem?"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a hazy or indistinct representation
  • Similar words include: glaze over, confuse, obnubilate
  • Opposite of: focus
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BLUR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "30. "Say it ___ so!""

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "31. Is awesome, in slang"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a blow from a flat object (as an open hand)
  • Similar words include: smacking, slap, smack
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SLAPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "33. Online connection"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the means of connection between things linked in series
  • Similar words include: linkup, nexus, link up
  • Opposite of: disconnectedness, disconnect
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LINK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "34. Tie-dyed bit of attire, often"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the starting place for each hole on a golf course
  • Similar words include: football tee, tee up, teeing ground
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TEE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "37. "Before we discuss other matters ..." or a hint to the starts of 18-, 26-, 47- and 60-Across"

16 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ________________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FIRSTTHINGSFIRST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "42. Word after photo or covert"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (roman mythology) goddess of abundance and fertility; wife of saturn; counterpart of greek rhea and cybele of ancient asia minor
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "43. Regrets"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that european strong-scented perennial herb with grey-green bitter-tasting leaves; an irritant similar to poison ivy
  • Similar words include: ruefulness, repent, Ruta graveolens
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RUES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "44. Defeats going away"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a disorderly crowd of people
  • Similar words include: rout, gouge, rabble
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ROUTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "45. Cheeky attitude"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an impudent or insolent rejoinder
  • Similar words include: back talk, sassing, lip
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SASS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "46. Southern cornbread"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that cornbread often made without milk or eggs and baked or fried (southern)
  • Similar words include: cornpone
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PONE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "47. Promgoers' luxurious rides"

12 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "53. Kind of oil extracted from hemp, for short"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "56. "They already left""

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "57. Scorching"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of 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
  • Similar words include: raging, blistering, red-hot
  • Opposite of: cold
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "58. Black bits in cookies and cream"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that chocolate cookie with white cream filling
  • Similar words include: oreo cookie
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OREO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "59. Beneath"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that located below or beneath something else
  • Similar words include: below, nether
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UNDER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "60. Present for an expectant mom or bride-to-be"

10 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "63. Brother's daughter"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a daughter of your brother or sister
  • Opposite of: nephew
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NIECE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "64. Caller of balls and strikes"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an official at a baseball game
  • Similar words include: umpire
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UMP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "65. Person with mainstream likes, pejoratively"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "66. Residents of Edinburgh and Glasgow"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the dialect of english used in scotland
  • Similar words include: Scotch, Scottish, Scotsman
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCOTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36A: "67. "The Tell-Tale Heart" author"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that united states writer and poet (1809-1849)
  • Similar words include: Edgar Allan Poe
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: POE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37A: "68. Sounds from baby robins"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a weak chirping sound as of a small bird
  • Similar words include: twirp, twinge, tweet
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TWEETS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Flat-topped hills 5
2D 2. Houston ballplayer 5
3D 3. Raps freestyle, in slang 9
4D 4. Broadcasts 4
5D 5. Allow to 3
6D 6. Less rosy-cheeked 6
7D 7. Channel for collegiate sports fans 5
8D 8. Where to go in the U.K.? 3
9D 9. Changing genetically 8
10D 10. Basketball datum 6
11D 11. Cricket's call 5
12D 12. Knot again 5
13D 13. Absolutely steaming 5
14D 14. Showed some courage 5
15D 19. Have a meal 3
16D 24. Abbey residents 5
17D 26. Sudden burst of wind 4
18D 27. Advil targets 5
19D 29. Vinyl records, familiarly 3
20D 31. Where to catch a Bay Area flight 3
21D 32. Stiff upper ___ 3
22D 33. Eldest von Trapp daughter in "The Sound of Music" 5
23D 34. Genre for wannabe sleuths 9
24D 35. Winter setting in D.C. 3
25D 36. Sci-fi space travelers 3
26D 38. Plot of land 5
27D 39. Keeps from being publicly known 8
28D 40. Some natural hairstyles, informally 4
29D 41. + or – particle 3
30D 45. Looks slack-jawed (at) 6
31D 46. Like a cocktail with an extra shot 6
32D 47. Leaves shocked 5
33D 48. What accompanies gin and a lime wedge 5
34D 49. Event with cowboys and clowns 5
35D 50. Vote into office 5
36D 51. "With any luck ..." 5
37D 52. Cut the grass 3
38D 54. Prove appropriate for 5
39D 55. Lavishes love (on) 5
40D 58. Shrek, e.g. 4
41D 61. Type of medical network, for short 3
42D 62. Part of a seat assignment 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Flat-topped hills"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that flat tableland with steep edges
  • Similar words include: mesa, table, Mesa
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MESAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Houston ballplayer"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Raps freestyle, in slang"

9 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Broadcasts"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that affected manners intended to impress others
  • Similar words include: publicise, send, aura
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AIRS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Allow to"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a brutal terrorist group active in kashmir; fights against india with the goal of restoring islamic rule of india
  • Similar words include: Lashkar-e-Tayyiba, get, net ball
  • Opposite of: prevent, disallow
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LET

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Less rosy-cheeked"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that of a light grey
  • Similar words include: ash-gray, ashy, ash-grey
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASHIER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Channel for collegiate sports fans"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Where to go in the U.K.?"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a toilet in britain
  • Similar words include: W.C., closet, water closet
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LOO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Changing genetically"

8 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that undergo mutation
  • Similar words include: mutate
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MUTATING

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Basketball datum"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the activity of contributing to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose
  • Similar words include: serve, assistance, help
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASSIST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Cricket's call"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a sharp sound made by small birds or insects
  • Similar words include: tweedle, chirrup, cheep
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CHIRP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Knot again"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that tie again or anew
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RETIE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "13. Absolutely steaming"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that feeling or showing extreme anger
  • Similar words include: ireful
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IRATE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "14. Showed some courage"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that take upon oneself; act presumptuously, without permission
  • Similar words include: make bold, presume, dare
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DARED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "19. Have a meal"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "24. Abbey residents"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a male religious living in a cloister and devoting himself to contemplation and prayer and work
  • Similar words include: Thelonious Sphere Monk, monastic, Thelonious Monk
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MONKS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "26. Sudden burst of wind"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a strong current of air
  • Similar words include: blow, blast
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GUST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "27. Advil targets"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an effortful attempt to attain a goal
  • Similar words include: trouble, pain in the neck, anguish
  • Opposite of: pleasure
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PAINS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "29. Vinyl records, familiarly"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a long-playing phonograph record; designed to be played at 33.3 rpm
  • Similar words include: LP, L-P
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "31. Where to catch a Bay Area flight"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "32. Stiff upper ___"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that either of two fleshy folds of tissue that surround the mouth and play a role in speaking
  • Similar words include: back talk, sassing, backtalk
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LIP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "33. Eldest von Trapp daughter in "The Sound of Music""

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "34. Genre for wannabe sleuths"

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "35. Winter setting in D.C."

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that standard time in the 5th time zone west of greenwich, reckoned at the 75th meridian; used in the eastern united states
  • Similar words include: Eastern Standard Time, Eastern Time
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "36. Sci-fi space travelers"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "38. Plot of land"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an extended area of land
  • Similar words include: nerve tract, parcel, nerve pathway
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TRACT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "39. Keeps from being publicly known"

8 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "40. Some natural hairstyles, informally"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "41. + or – particle"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a particle that is electrically charged (positive or negative); an atom or molecule or group that has lost or gained one or more electrons
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ION

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "45. Looks slack-jawed (at)"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a fixed look with eyes open wide
  • Similar words include: gaze, stare, asterisk
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STARES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "46. Like a cocktail with an extra shot"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that having great influence
  • Similar words include: virile, strong, stiff
  • Opposite of: impotent
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: POTENT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "47. Leaves shocked"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that make senseless or dizzy by or as if by a blow
  • Similar words include: sandbag, stupefy, stun
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STUNS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "48. What accompanies gin and a lime wedge"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that lime- or lemon-flavored carbonated water containing quinine
  • Similar words include: brisk, pop, quinine water
  • Opposite of: atonic
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TONIC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "49. Event with cowboys and clowns"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an exhibition of cowboy skills
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RODEO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "50. Vote into office"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an exclusive group of people
  • Similar words include: elite, chosen
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ELECT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "51. "With any luck ...""

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37D: "52. Cut the grass"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a loft in a barn where hay is stored
  • Similar words include: haymow, hayloft, cut down
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MOW

Remember this word for future puzzles!

38D: "54. Prove appropriate for"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that accord or comport with
  • Similar words include: suit, beseem
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BEFIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

39D: "55. Lavishes love (on)"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that be foolish or senile due to old age
  • Similar words include: dust, disperse, dot
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DOTES

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40D: "58. Shrek, e.g."

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a cruel wicked and inhuman person
  • Similar words include: fiend, monster, devil
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OGRE

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41D: "61. Type of medical network, for short"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that group insurance that entitles members to services of participating hospitals and clinics and physicians
  • Similar words include: health maintenance organization
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HMO

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42D: "62. Part of a seat assignment"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an arrangement of objects or people side by side in a line
  • Similar words include: words, rowing, quarrel
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ROW

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

37 Across Clues
42 Down Clues
79 Total Clues

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Last updated: March 03, 2026 at 04:59 AM