Search Clues

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

Tuesday, August 25, 2026

Quick NYT Mini Crossword August 25, 2026 (Trivia Week 4) - Solutions

Quick NYT Mini Crossword August 25, 2026 (Trivia Week 4) - Solutions

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: February 15 2021 NYT Clues Solutions | March 11 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | October 20 2021 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Puzzle

NYT Mini Crossword solutions for August 25, 2026
NYT Mini Crossword Grid - Tuesday, August 25, 2026
Puzzle Statistics
Detail Information
Date August 25, 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 39. Bluish-silver Christmas trees, maybe
2 Across 63. Bygone Russian leader
3 Across 56. Drink in a sippy cup, to a toddler
4 Across 62. *7th
5 Across 60. "I'd love to go"
6 Across 22. ___ skirt
7 Across 54. Some Monopoly properties: Abbr.
8 Across 64. Pad
9 Across 14. Free-spirited style, informally
10 Across 46. Great divide

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: "39. Bluish-silver Christmas trees, maybe"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal SPRUCES


2 Across: "63. Bygone Russian leader"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal TSAR


3 Across: "56. Drink in a sippy cup, to a toddler"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'W' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: W__A

Answer:

Click to reveal WAWA


4 Across: "62. *7th"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal URANUS


5 Across: "60. "I'd love to go""

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal ITSADATE


6 Across: "22. ___ skirt"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal MIDI


7 Across: "54. Some Monopoly properties: Abbr."

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal AVES


8 Across: "64. Pad"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal MAT


9 Across: "14. Free-spirited style, informally"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: B__O

Answer:

Click to reveal BOHO


10 Across: "46. Great divide"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'M'
  • Word pattern: C___M

Answer:

Click to reveal CHASM

Down Clues - 10 Total

These clues go from top to bottom in the puzzle.

Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 40. Raceway speed setter
2 Down 2. Allen who was the 2001 N.B.A. M.V.P.
3 Down 29. "The Little Mermaid" prince
4 Down 37. Neon ___ (aquarium fish)
5 Down 6. "Wowza!"
6 Down 11. Desert quality
7 Down 5. ___ pond
8 Down 35. Kelly of morning TV
9 Down 44. Like the paths of 45-Down, as visually depicted in this puzzle
10 Down 31. Shades

Hints and Answers for Down Clues

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


1 Down: "40. Raceway speed setter"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 7 letters
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: P_____R

Answer:

Click to reveal PACECAR


2 Down: "2. Allen who was the 2001 N.B.A. M.V.P."

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 7 letters
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: I_____N

Answer:

Click to reveal IVERSON


3 Down: "29. "The Little Mermaid" prince"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal ERIC


4 Down: "37. Neon ___ (aquarium fish)"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal TETRA


5 Down: "6. "Wowza!""

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal OHDAMN


6 Down: "11. Desert quality"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 7 letters
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: A_____Y

Answer:

Click to reveal ARIDITY


7 Down: "5. ___ pond"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal KOI


8 Down: "35. Kelly of morning TV"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: R__A

Answer:

Click to reveal RIPA


9 Down: "44. Like the paths of 45-Down, as visually depicted in this puzzle"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 7 letters
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: O_____L

Answer:

Click to reveal ORBITAL


10 Down: "31. Shades"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal HUES

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: Medium

Common Questions About Trivia Week 4

When can I play the Trivia Week 4 Mini?

The Trivia Week 4 puzzle is available at 10 PM Eastern Time the night before.

How fast should I be able to solve Trivia Week 4?

Most people solve the Trivia Week 4 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 4?

No! The Trivia Week 4 NYT Mini is completely free. You don't need a subscription like the big crossword.

What makes a good Trivia Week 4 solver?

Good Trivia Week 4 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 4?

Trivia Week 4 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 25, 2026 at 04:10 AM

Search terms: NYT Mini Trivia Week, Trivia Week {week_num}, Mini crossword Trivia Week, Trivia Week answers, NYT Trivia Week, August 25 2026 mini crossword

Friday, August 7, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers August 07, 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. What suggests that relief is at hand? 10
2A 11. Some 4
3A 15. "News to me" 10
4A 16. Shankar who co-composed the score for 1982's "Gandhi" 4
5A 17. "Well, now everyone will know" 15
6A 19. Family nickname 3
7A 20. Spot for a light punishment 5
8A 21. Eponym of U.S. track and field's Male Athlete of the Year Award 5
9A 22. Member of the World Cup's "Tartan Army" fan base 4
10A 23. Acronymic weapon 5
11A 25. Tree whose name has multiple pronunciations 5
12A 27. Laugh, laugh, laugh 8
13A 30. Geneticist's finding 5
14A 31. Wasteful government spending, informally 4
15A 32. Big name in sandals 4
16A 33. "It's ___ or nothin'!" (classic kids' commercial slogan) 4
17A 34. Many of the characters in "Who Framed Roger Rabbit" 5
18A 35. Word with block or platform 4
19A 36. Tangy hybrid 4
20A 37. Gobsmacks 4
21A 38. Elephant mascot of the Alabama Crimson Tide 5
22A 39. Elf, say 8
23A 41. They may be covered 5
24A 42. Opportunity on Mars, say 5
25A 43. Piece of ice in the drink? 4
26A 44. Name of "the other reindeer" in a common Christmas mondegreen 5
27A 46. Waffle patterns 5
28A 48. Where baked Alaska is believed to have been invented, oddly enough: Abbr. 3
29A 51. Field you make tracks in 15
30A 54. Blue rasp-"brr!"-y treat? 4
31A 55. Flying nuisance 10
32A 56. Besmirches 4
33A 57. What someone might get quickly around lunchtime 10

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. What suggests that relief is at hand?"

10 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "11. Some"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "15. "News to me""

10 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "16. Shankar who co-composed the score for 1982's "Gandhi""

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "17. "Well, now everyone will know""

15 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "19. Family nickname"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a female person who has the same parents as another person
  • Similar words include: te, sister, International System
  • Opposite of: brother
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SIS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "20. Spot for a light punishment"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a joint between the distal end of the radius and the proximal row of carpal bones
  • Similar words include: radiocarpal joint, carpus, articulatio radiocarpea
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: WRIST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "21. Eponym of U.S. track and field's Male Athlete of the Year Award"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that united states athlete and black american whose success in the 1936 olympic games in berlin outraged hitler (1913-1980)
  • Similar words include: Owen, Robert Owen, Sir Richard Owen
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OWENS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "22. Member of the World Cup's "Tartan Army" fan base"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a native or inhabitant of scotland
  • Similar words include: Scotsman, Scotchman
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCOT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "23. Acronymic weapon"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "25. Tree whose name has multiple pronunciations"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that wood of a pecan tree
  • Similar words include: Carya illinoensis, pecan tree, Carya illinoinsis
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PECAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "27. Laugh, laugh, laugh"

8 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "30. Geneticist's finding"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a distinguishing feature of your personal nature
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TRAIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "31. Wasteful government spending, informally"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that meat from a domestic hog or pig
  • Similar words include: pork barrel, porc
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PORK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "32. Big name in sandals"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "33. "It's ___ or nothin'!" (classic kids' commercial slogan)"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "34. Many of the characters in "Who Framed Roger Rabbit""

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a film made by photographing a series of cartoon drawings to give the illusion of movement when projected in rapid sequence
  • Similar words include: animated cartoon, toon, cartoon
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TOONS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "35. Word with block or platform"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the bottom of a shoe or boot; the back part of a shoe or boot that touches the ground and provides elevation
  • Similar words include: dog, bounder, cad
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HEEL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "36. Tangy hybrid"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that large sweet juicy hybrid between tangerine and grapefruit having a thick wrinkled skin
  • Similar words include: ugli fruit, tangelo
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UGLI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "37. Gobsmacks"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an overwhelming feeling of wonder or admiration
  • Similar words include: awe, veneration, fear
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AWES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "38. Elephant mascot of the Alabama Crimson Tide"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "39. Elf, say"

8 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "41. They may be covered"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a short musical composition with words
  • Similar words include: vocal, strain, birdsong
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SONGS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "42. Opportunity on Mars, say"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that someone who leads a wandering unsettled life
  • Similar words include: bird of passage, roamer, scouter
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ROVER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "43. Piece of ice in the drink?"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a large mass of ice floating at sea; usually broken off of a polar glacier
  • Similar words include: iceberg, Alban Berg
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BERG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "44. Name of "the other reindeer" in a common Christmas mondegreen"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that small ovoid fruit of the european olive tree; important food and source of oil
  • Similar words include: Olea europaea, European olive tree
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OLIVE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "46. Waffle patterns"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a pattern of regularly spaced horizontal and vertical lines
  • Similar words include: power grid, power system, control grid
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GRIDS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "48. Where baked Alaska is believed to have been invented, oddly enough: Abbr."

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "51. Field you make tracks in"

15 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "54. Blue rasp-"brr!"-y treat?"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "55. Flying nuisance"

10 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "56. Besmirches"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of various dark heavy viscid substances obtained as a residue
  • Similar words include: gob, seafarer, mariner
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TARS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "57. What someone might get quickly around lunchtime"

10 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Sets (on) 4
2D 2. Cuisine with the #1 dish in a CNN "World's 50 Best Foods" poll 4
3D 3. Intruders in urban trash cans 4
4D 4. Ones who might cut the line, in brief? 3
5D 5. Ski slope vehicle 7
6D 6. Lose affection for 6
7D 7. Wiped out, in slang 5
8D 8. Fusses 4
9D 9. No-nos at some highway intersections 9
10D 10. Trap neighbor 3
11D 11. Relationship-defining question 11
12D 12. Bejeweled target of a heist in "Ocean's Twelve" 10
13D 13. McMullin of Utah politics 4
14D 14. Features of some early presidential portraits 4
15D 18. Whole lot 4
16D 22. Films in which many stars might appear 11
17D 24. Grills, say 4
18D 25. Competitor of Rao's 5
19D 26. One likely to be "healthy, wealthy and wise," per Benjamin Franklin 10
20D 27. Vocal critic 5
21D 28. Iris settings 5
22D 29. Lofty 4
23D 30. Bit of threaded hardware 4
24D 31. Attempt to seize control 9
25D 34. Perspective 4
26D 38. One dish commonly in the 12-dish Sviata Vecheria, a traditional Ukrainian Christmas dinner 7
27D 40. Faire ___ (get by with, in French) 4
28D 41. Charm 6
29D 43. European fixture 5
30D 44. Skip over 4
31D 45. Title boy in a 2021 Pixar film 4
32D 47. Word that comes from Sanskrit for "bread" 4
33D 48. Score somewhat akin to an A- 4
34D 49. Flexible practice? 4
35D 50. Website associated with the domain www.news.com 4
36D 52. Tour org. 3
37D 53. Fields Medal winner Terence 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Sets (on)"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that urge to attack someone
  • Similar words include: set, sic
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SICS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Cuisine with the #1 dish in a CNN "World's 50 Best Foods" poll"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a native or inhabitant of thailand
  • Similar words include: Tai, Central Thai, Siamese
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: THAI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Intruders in urban trash cans"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of various long-tailed rodents similar to but larger than a mouse
  • Similar words include: crumb, stinker, betray
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RATS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Ones who might cut the line, in brief?"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a rapid automatic system to detect plastic explosives in passengers' luggage using x-ray technology and computers; designed for use in airports
  • Similar words include: male erecticle dysfunction, ED, explosive detection system
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EDS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Ski slope vehicle"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Lose affection for"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Wiped out, in slang"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Fusses"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a rapid active commotion
  • Similar words include: stir, hustle, flurry
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ADOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. No-nos at some highway intersections"

9 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Trap neighbor"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a broad flat muscle on either side of the back
  • Similar words include: latissimus dorsi
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Relationship-defining question"

11 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Bejeweled target of a heist in "Ocean's Twelve""

10 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "13. McMullin of Utah politics"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "14. Features of some early presidential portraits"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that hairpiece covering the head and made of real or synthetic hair
  • Similar words include: wig, wigging
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: WIGS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "18. Whole lot"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a person who invites guests to a social event (such as a party in his or her own home) and who is responsible for them while they are there
  • Similar words include: innkeeper, master of ceremonies, boniface
  • Opposite of: parasite
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "22. Films in which many stars might appear"

11 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "24. Grills, say"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that inquire about
  • Similar words include: take, necessitate, enquire
  • Opposite of: obviate
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASKS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "25. Competitor of Rao's"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "26. One likely to be "healthy, wealthy and wise," per Benjamin Franklin"

10 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "27. Vocal critic"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "28. Iris settings"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the part of the eye that contains the iris and ciliary body and choroid
  • Similar words include: uvea
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UVEAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "29. Lofty"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a garment size for a tall person
  • Similar words include: improbable, marvellous, grandiloquent
  • Opposite of: short
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TALL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "30. Bit of threaded hardware"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "31. Attempt to seize control"

9 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "34. Perspective"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the income or profit arising from such transactions as the sale of land or other property
  • Similar words include: select, choose, film
  • Opposite of: give, refuse
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TAKE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "38. One dish commonly in the 12-dish Sviata Vecheria, a traditional Ukrainian Christmas dinner"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a russian or polish soup usually containing beet juice as a foundation
  • Similar words include: borsht, bortsch, borsh
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BORSCHT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "40. Faire ___ (get by with, in French)"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "41. Charm"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that induce to have sex
  • Similar words include: score, make
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SEDUCE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "43. European fixture"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a basin for washing genitals and anal area
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BIDET

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "44. Skip over"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that prevent from being included or considered or accepted
  • Similar words include: leave out, exclude, drop
  • Opposite of: include, attend to
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OMIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "45. Title boy in a 2021 Pixar film"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "47. Word that comes from Sanskrit for "bread""

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "48. Score somewhat akin to an A-"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the cardinal number that is the sum of eight and one
  • Similar words include: ix, Nina from Carolina, niner
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NINE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "49. Flexible practice?"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that hindu discipline aimed at training the consciousness for a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility that is achieved through the three paths of actions and knowledge and devotion
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: YOGA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "50. Website associated with the domain www.news.com"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "52. Tour org."

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37D: "53. Fields Medal winner Terence"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an adherent of any branch of taoism
  • Similar words include: Taoist
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TAO

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 07, 2026 at 05:09 AM

Thursday, July 9, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers July 09, 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. In vogue 4
2A 5. Seal hunter 4
3A 9. Some rudiments to be learned 4
4A 13. Flex time? 4
5A 14. Stern 4
6A 15. Container for peaches 5
7A 17. *Honeybunch 5
8A 19. Group of spellers? 5
9A 20. Title in "Beowulf" 5
10A 21. Back-to-basics regimen 9
11A 23. Grp. of peacekeepers 4
12A 25. *Afternoon socials 4
13A 26. Caddies, in golf slang 7
14A 29. Part of a blind 4
15A 30. Partner of ends 4
16A 31. Some messages from a road trip, in brief 4
17A 33. Scare off 5
18A 37. Many a golden parachute recipient, in brief 3
19A 38. Renounced ... or a phonetic hint to reading the answers to the starred clues 7
20A 40. Sanskrit name meaning "extraordinary" 3
21A 41. Capital close to the confluence of the Red and Black rivers 5
22A 43. Gaels of the N.C.A.A. 4
23A 44. Battling 4
24A 45. Piece of cake 4
25A 47. Food processor 7
26A 49. *Worms or flies, often 4
27A 53. Do some laps 4
28A 54. Right now 9
29A 56. ___ Hamilton, author of the classic "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes" 5
30A 59. Sass 5
31A 60. *___ Beach, Calif. 5
32A 62. Hit 1977 musical that included Franklin D. Roosevelt as a character 5
33A 63. Juniors, e.g. 4
34A 64. Trails 4
35A 65. "Yikes!" 4
36A 66. Rowers' workout machines, informally 4
37A 67. Straddling 4

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. In vogue"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that elegance by virtue of being fashionable
  • Similar words include: stylishness, modishness, chichi
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CHIC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "5. Seal hunter"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that predatory black-and-white toothed whale with large dorsal fin; common in cold seas
  • Similar words include: killer whale, grampus, killer
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ORCA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "9. Some rudiments to be learned"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the elementary stages of any subject (usually plural)
  • Similar words include: alphabet, first rudiment, ABC's
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ABCS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "13. Flex time?"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that hindu discipline aimed at training the consciousness for a state of perfect spiritual insight and tranquility that is achieved through the three paths of actions and knowledge and devotion
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: YOGA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "14. Stern"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the back of a military formation or procession
  • Similar words include: bum, nates, back
  • Opposite of: front, level
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: REAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "15. Container for peaches"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a rugged box (usually made of wood); used for shipping
  • Similar words include: crateful
  • Opposite of: uncrate
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CRATE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "17. *Honeybunch"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a white crystalline carbohydrate used as a sweetener and preservative
  • Similar words include: dough, bread, cabbage
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SUGAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "19. Group of spellers?"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an assembly of witches; usually 13 witches
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: COVEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "20. Title in "Beowulf""

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a feudal lord or baron
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: THANE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "21. Back-to-basics regimen"

9 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "23. Grp. of peacekeepers"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an international organization created in 1949 by the north atlantic treaty for purposes of collective security
  • Similar words include: North Atlantic Treaty Organization
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NATO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "25. *Afternoon socials"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a beverage made by steeping tea leaves in water
  • Similar words include: tea, afternoon tea, teatime
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TEAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "26. Caddies, in golf slang"

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that small hairless caterpillar having legs on only its front and rear segments; mostly larvae of moths of the family geometridae
  • Similar words include: inchworm, measuring worm, looper
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LOOPERS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "29. Part of a blind"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a thin strip (wood or metal)
  • Similar words include: spline
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SLAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "30. Partner of ends"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the likelihood of a thing occurring rather than not occurring
  • Similar words include: betting odds
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ODDS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "31. Some messages from a road trip, in brief"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a terrorist organization organized in 1959 by student activists who were dissatisfied with the moderate nationalism of the traditional basque party; want to create an independent homeland in spain's western pyrenees
  • Similar words include: Basque Homeland and Freedom, Basque Fatherland and Liberty, Euskadi ta Askatasuna
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ETAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "33. Scare off"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that try to prevent; show opposition to
  • Similar words include: discourage, dissuade
  • Opposite of: persuade
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DETER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "37. Many a golden parachute recipient, in brief"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

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: chief operating officer, chief executive officer
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CEO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "38. Renounced ... or a phonetic hint to reading the answers to the starred clues"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that do without or cease to hold or adhere to
  • Similar words include: foreswear, antecede, precede
  • Opposite of: claim, postdate
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FORGONE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "40. Sanskrit name meaning "extraordinary""

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "41. Capital close to the confluence of the Red and Black rivers"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the capital city of vietnam; located in north vietnam
  • Similar words include: capital of Vietnam
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HANOI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "43. Gaels of the N.C.A.A."

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "44. Battling"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "45. Piece of cake"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the act of catching an object with the hands
  • Similar words include: bust, snatch, pushover
  • Opposite of: inelasticity
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SNAP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "47. Food processor"

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an enlarged and muscular saclike organ of the alimentary canal; the principal organ of digestion
  • Similar words include: abdomen, tolerate, suffer
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STOMACH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "49. *Worms or flies, often"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that anything that serves as an enticement
  • Similar words include: lure, tantalize, rally
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BAIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "53. Do some laps"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the act of swimming; :
  • Similar words include: float, swimming, drown
  • Opposite of: sink
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SWIM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "54. Right now"

9 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "56. ___ Hamilton, author of the classic "Mythology: Timeless Tales of Gods and Heroes""

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "59. Sass"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the opening through which food is taken in and vocalizations emerge
  • Similar words include: verbalize, sassing, verbalise
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MOUTH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "60. *___ Beach, Calif."

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "62. Hit 1977 musical that included Franklin D. Roosevelt as a character"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "63. Juniors, e.g."

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a male human offspring
  • Similar words include: Logos, boy, Word
  • Opposite of: daughter, girl
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SONS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "64. Trails"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the act of slowing down or falling behind
  • Similar words include: put behind bars, dawdle, meantime
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LAGS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "65. "Yikes!""

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36A: "66. Rowers' workout machines, informally"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a cgs unit of work or energy; the work done by a force of one dyne acting over a distance of one centimeter
  • Similar words include: erg
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ERGS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37A: "67. Straddling"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that on, to, or at the top
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ATOP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Anatomical pouch 4
2D 2. "Star Wars" planet where Luke Skywalker rides a tauntaun 4
3D 3. Dinosaur named for a lizard tooth 9
4D 4. Quick timeouts? 7
5D 5. AAA or B.B.B. 3
6D 6. Bring in 4
7D 7. 200 milligrams 5
8D 8. Sketchy activities? 10
9D 9. Kudo 8
10D 10. Guys' night out 7
11D 11. Trivial objection 5
12D 12. Symbol of strength and solidity 5
13D 16. Tonsillectomy docs 4
14D 18. French crown? 4
15D 22. Wing 3
16D 24. Hydrox lookalike 4
17D 26. Lomond, for one 4
18D 27. Old theaters 4
19D 28. Show that ends in disarray? 10
20D 32. Long time follower? 3
21D 34. Dojo furnishing 9
22D 35. It's a long story 4
23D 36. One of the six sluggers on baseball's Murderer's Row 4
24D 38. Spent 8
25D 39. "Curly W" team 4
26D 42. Caucasus region 7
27D 44. Padmé ___ (mother of Luke and Leia Skywalker) 7
28D 46. Horned viper 3
29D 48. Is underwater 4
30D 49. S.E.C. football powerhouse, informally 4
31D 50. United 5
32D 51. Tried to hit a baseball 5
33D 52. Taste 5
34D 55. Double-decker checker 4
35D 57. Benin neighbor 4
36D 58. Door fastener 4
37D 61. Jerk 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Anatomical pouch"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a closed sac that develops abnormally in some body structure
  • Similar words include: vesicle
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CYST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. "Star Wars" planet where Luke Skywalker rides a tauntaun"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (norse mythology) a blind god; misled by loki, he kills his brother balder by throwing a shaft of mistletoe
  • Similar words include: Hodur, Hoder, Hothr
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOTH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Dinosaur named for a lizard tooth"

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that massive herbivorous bipedal dinosaur with a long heavy tail; common in europe and northern africa; early cretaceous period
  • Pattern: _________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IGUANODON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Quick timeouts?"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that sleeping for a short period of time (usually not in bed)
  • Similar words include: catnap, catch a wink, nap
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CATNAPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. AAA or B.B.B."

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Bring in"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that gather, as of natural products
  • Similar words include: draw, glean, harvest
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: REAP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. 200 milligrams"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a unit of weight for precious stones = 200 mg
  • Similar words include: kt, karat
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CARAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Sketchy activities?"

10 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Kudo"

8 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction
  • Similar words include: honor, award, honour
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ACCOLADE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Guys' night out"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Trivial objection"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an evasion of the point of an argument by raising irrelevant distinctions or objections
  • Similar words include: chicane, quiddity, quibble
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CAVIL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Symbol of strength and solidity"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an alloy of iron with small amounts of carbon; widely used in construction; mechanical properties can be varied over a wide range
  • Similar words include: sword, nerve, blade
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STEEL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "16. Tonsillectomy docs"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "18. French crown?"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "22. Wing"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an extension at the end and at right angles to the main building
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ELL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "24. Hydrox lookalike"

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!

17D: "26. Lomond, for one"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a long narrow inlet of the sea in scotland (especially when it is nearly landlocked)
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LOCH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "27. Old theaters"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "28. Show that ends in disarray?"

10 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a performer who provides erotic entertainment by undressing to music
  • Similar words include: striptease artist, stripteaser, exotic dancer
  • Pattern: __________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STRIPTEASE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "32. Long time follower?"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that gone by; or in the past
  • Similar words include: agone
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AGO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "34. Dojo furnishing"

9 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "35. It's a long story"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a long narrative poem telling of a hero's deeds
  • Similar words include: epic poem, epos, larger-than-life
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EPIC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "36. One of the six sluggers on baseball's Murderer's Row"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that united states professional baseball player famous for hitting home runs (1895-1948)
  • Similar words include: Book of Ruth, commiseration, George Herman Ruth
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RUTH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "38. Spent"

8 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that come or bring to a finish or an end
  • Similar words include: terminate, cease, end up
  • Opposite of: unfinished, begin
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FINISHED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "39. "Curly W" team"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "42. Caucasus region"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "44. Padmé ___ (mother of Luke and Leia Skywalker)"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "46. Horned viper"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that of southern europe; similar to but smaller than the adder
  • Similar words include: Naja haje, Vipera aspis, Egyptian cobra
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "48. Is underwater"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that be obliged to pay or repay
  • Similar words include: owe
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OWES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "49. S.E.C. football powerhouse, informally"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "50. United"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "51. Tried to hit a baseball"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that move in a curve or arc, usually with the intent of hitting
  • Similar words include: sway, drop, swing
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SWUNG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "52. Taste"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "55. Double-decker checker"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a male sovereign; ruler of a kingdom
  • Similar words include: Riley B King, queen, B. B. King
  • Opposite of: female monarch, queen
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: KING

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "57. Benin neighbor"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a republic on the western coast of africa on the gulf of guinea; formerly under french control
  • Similar words include: Togolese Republic
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TOGO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "58. Door fastener"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a fastener for a door or lid; a hinged metal plate is fitted over a staple and is locked with a pin or padlock
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HASP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37D: "61. Jerk"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the fleshy part of the human body that you sit on
  • Similar words include: shtup, bum, Eastern Samoa
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASS

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
37 Down Clues
74 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: July 09, 2026 at 06:58 AM