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Thursday, September 3, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers September 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: 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. Things that have icons 4
2A 5. She's possessive 3
3A 8. Sales spiel 5
4A 13. She can speak more than 20 languages 4
5A 14. Lead-in to haw 3
6A 15. Followed 6
7A 17. Show with the classic episodes "The Puffy Shirt" and "The Little Kicks" 8
8A 19. Authorize 6
9A 20. Noodle 6
10A 21. On, in French 3
11A 23. Successes for sluggers, for short 4
12A 24. Like some pants or haircuts 7
13A 27. Big laugh 3
14A 28. What dogs do the most in the spring and fall 4
15A 32. School unit 9
16A 34. Reached a payment date 7
17A 36. "Please give this high priority!" 4
18A 37. Character with a famous opening line? 7
19A 38. Like an overtired toddler 5
20A 42. Twice-told tale? 5
21A 43. Sweetums or Baby Doll 7
22A 45. March Madness org. 4
23A 48. Open, as a bottle 7
24A 49. One might feature rivers and bluffs 9
25A 52. Hastens 4
26A 53. Apple purchase 3
27A 54. Comedian Jon 7
28A 56. Its motto is "Industry" 4
29A 58. Sorta 3
30A 59. Luxuriates outdoors, in a way 6
31A 64. Emergency alerts 6
32A 66. Complete fiasco, slangily 8
33A 68. Steak option 6
34A 69. Emmy-winning role for Tina Fey 3
35A 70. Up the ___ 4
36A 71. Words that might be seen on a docent's badge 5
37A 72. Letters found near some bars 3
38A 73. It might be paved with good intentions 4

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Things that have icons"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "5. She's possessive"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "8. Sales spiel"

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: sales pitch, gear, incline
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PITCH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "13. She can speak more than 20 languages"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "14. Lead-in to haw"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "15. Followed"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that issue or terminate (in a specified way, state, etc.); end
  • Similar words include: ensue, result
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ENSUED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "17. Show with the classic episodes "The Puffy Shirt" and "The Little Kicks""

8 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "19. Authorize"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that render capable or able for some task
  • Opposite of: disable
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ENABLE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "20. Noodle"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that informal terms for a human head
  • Similar words include: bean, dome, attic
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NOGGIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "21. On, in French"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a port in southern lebanon on the mediterranean sea; formerly a major phoenician seaport famous for silks
  • Similar words include: Tyre
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SUR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "23. Successes for sluggers, for short"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a run that is the result of the batter's performance
  • Similar words include: run batted in, rbi
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RBIS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "24. Like some pants or haircuts"

7 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that diminish gradually
  • Similar words include: sharpen, tapering, narrowing
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TAPERED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "27. Big laugh"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "28. What dogs do the most in the spring and fall"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an outbuilding with a single story; used for shelter or storage
  • Similar words include: slough, cast, cast off
  • Opposite of: persistent
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SHED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "32. School unit"

9 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a room in a school where lessons take place
  • Similar words include: schoolroom
  • Pattern: _________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CLASSROOM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "34. Reached a payment date"

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "36. "Please give this high priority!""

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that as soon as possible
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASAP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "37. Character with a famous opening line?"

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "38. Like an overtired toddler"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that annoyed and irritable
  • Similar words include: busy, finicky, grouchy
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FUSSY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "42. Twice-told tale?"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a program that is broadcast again
  • Similar words include: rebroadcast
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RERUN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "43. Sweetums or Baby Doll"

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "45. March Madness org."

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "48. Open, as a bottle"

7 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that loosen something by unscrewing it
  • Opposite of: screw
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UNSCREW

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "49. One might feature rivers and bluffs"

9 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "52. Hastens"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Similar words include: rush along, bucket along, pelt along
  • Opposite of: linger
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HIES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "53. Apple purchase"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a waterproof raincoat made of rubberized fabric
  • Similar words include: mackintosh, macintosh, mack
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MAC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "54. Comedian Jon"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that united states film actor who portrayed incorruptible but modest heros (1908-1997)
  • Similar words include: James Maitland Stewart, Dugald Stewart, Jimmy Stewart
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STEWART

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "56. Its motto is "Industry""

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a state in the western united states; settled in 1847 by mormons led by brigham young
  • Similar words include: Beehive State, UT, Mormon State
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UTAH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "58. Sorta"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "59. Luxuriates outdoors, in a way"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "64. Emergency alerts"

6 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a sea nymph (part woman and part bird) supposed to lure sailors to destruction on the rocks where the nymphs lived
  • Similar words include: temptress, enchantress, femme fatale
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SIRENS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "66. Complete fiasco, slangily"

8 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "68. Steak option"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "69. Emmy-winning role for Tina Fey"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "70. Up the ___"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (poker) the initial contribution that each player makes to the pot
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ANTE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36A: "71. Words that might be seen on a docent's badge"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37A: "72. Letters found near some bars"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

38A: "73. It might be paved with good intentions"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an open way (generally public) for travel or transportation
  • Similar words include: route
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ROAD

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. The "A" in L.P.G.A.: Abbr. 4
2D 2. Slangy "mouth" found in a 20-Across 7
3D 3. Self-righteous type 4
4D 4. Confess, say 4
5D 5. Spotted youngster that might be spotted on the savanna 8
6D 6. Fish with fused fins 3
7D 7. One end of the Suez Canal 6
8D 8. Many a "Bridgerton" lady 7
9D 9. Alternative to a bed-and-breakfast 3
10D 10. Slavic title 4
11D 11. Place for storing belongings in a 32-Across 9
12D 12. Cause of a squeaky voice, maybe 6
13D 16. Place to study 4
14D 18. Factor in a clothing purchase 3
15D 22. ___ Minor 4
16D 25. Something a suspect enters 4
17D 26. Sketches 6
18D 28. Leave a mark 4
19D 29. Hearty 4
20D 30. Islamic "commander" 4
21D 31. Show to be bogus 6
22D 33. Tool found in a 32-Across 9
23D 35. What choreologists study 6
24D 39. Garment that is typically around six yards long 4
25D 40. Captain Hook's right-hand man 4
26D 41. Evergreen trees with red arils 4
27D 43. Cat that can purr but can't roar 4
28D 44. Invigorate 8
29D 46. Skilled performer 7
30D 47. 2, 4, 6 and 8, e.g. 4
31D 49. Surface of a well-used wok 6
32D 50. Pocket rockets, e.g., found in a 49-Across 9
33D 51. "Well, shucks!" 6
34D 53. Polyhymnia or Clio 4
35D 55. Group with the 1994 12x platinum album "CrazySexyCool" 3
36D 57. "Tarnation!" 4
37D 60. Distantly 4
38D 61. Underground entrance found in a 73-Across 7
39D 62. Bread that may have a pocket 4
40D 63. Skeleton, say 4
41D 65. ___ Lock (PC key) 3
42D 67. Orchestra setting 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. The "A" in L.P.G.A.: Abbr."

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Slangy "mouth" found in a 20-Across"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Self-righteous type"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a person regarded as arrogant and annoying
  • Similar words include: snot, snoot, snob
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PRIG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Confess, say"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that deliver by singing
  • Similar words include: talk, blab out, spill the beans
  • Opposite of: keep quiet
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SING

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Spotted youngster that might be spotted on the savanna"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Fish with fused fins"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the fatty flesh of eel; an elongate fish found in fresh water in europe and america; large eels are usually smoked or pickled
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EEL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. One end of the Suez Canal"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Many a "Bridgerton" lady"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a woman of the peerage in britain
  • Similar words include: Lady, noblewoman
  • Opposite of: nobleman, Lord
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PEERESS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Alternative to a bed-and-breakfast"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a hotel providing overnight lodging for travelers
  • Similar words include: auberge, hostel, hostelry
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: INN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Slavic title"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a male monarch or emperor (especially of russia prior to 1917)
  • Similar words include: czar, tzar
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TSAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Place for storing belongings in a 32-Across"

9 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a small compartment
  • Similar words include: snug, cubby, pigeonhole
  • Pattern: _________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CUBBYHOLE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Cause of a squeaky voice, maybe"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a very light colorless element that is one of the six inert gasses; the most difficult gas to liquefy; occurs in economically extractable amounts in certain natural gases (as those found in texas and kansas)
  • Similar words include: atomic number 2, He
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HELIUM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "16. Place to study"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a piece of furniture with a writing surface and usually drawers or other compartments
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DESK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "18. Factor in a clothing purchase"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a display of bad temper
  • Similar words include: gibe, primed, equip
  • Opposite of: disagree, unfit
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "22. ___ Minor"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "25. Something a suspect enters"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a humble request for help from someone in authority
  • Similar words include: supplication
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PLEA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "26. Sketches"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a document ordering the payment of money; drawn by one person or bank on another
  • Similar words include: outline, tipple, enlist
  • Opposite of: discharge
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DRAFTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "28. Leave a mark"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a mark left (usually on the skin) by the healing of injured tissue
  • Similar words include: scratch, pock, cicatrice
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "29. Hearty"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a soldier of the american revolution who was hanged as a spy by the british; his last words were supposed to have been `i only regret that i have but one life to give for my country' (1755-1776)
  • Similar words include: force, George Ellery Hale, haul
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HALE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "30. Islamic "commander""

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an independent ruler or chieftain (especially in africa or arabia)
  • Similar words include: ameer, amir, emeer
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EMIR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "31. Show to be bogus"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that expose while ridiculing; especially of pretentious or false claims and ideas
  • Similar words include: expose
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DEBUNK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "33. Tool found in a 32-Across"

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "35. What choreologists study"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an artistic form of nonverbal communication
  • Similar words include: terpsichore, trip the light fantastic toe, saltation
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DANCES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "39. Garment that is typically around six yards long"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "40. Captain Hook's right-hand man"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "41. Evergreen trees with red arils"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that wood of a yew; especially the durable fine-grained light brown or red wood of the english yew valued for cabinetwork and archery bows
  • Similar words include: yew
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: YEWS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "43. Cat that can purr but can't roar"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that large american feline resembling a lion
  • Similar words include: panther, mountain lion, painter
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PUMA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "44. Invigorate"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that cause to be alert and energetic
  • Similar words include: stimulate, arouse, brace
  • Opposite of: sedate, de-energize
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ENERGIZE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "46. Skilled performer"

7 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a public performer (a dancer or singer)
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ARTISTE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "47. 2, 4, 6 and 8, e.g."

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that how long something has existed
  • Similar words include: age, senesce, old age
  • Opposite of: rejuvenate
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AGES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "49. Surface of a well-used wok"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a fine coating of oxide on the surface of a metal
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PATINA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "50. Pocket rockets, e.g., found in a 49-Across"

9 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "51. "Well, shucks!""

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "53. Polyhymnia or Clio"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that in ancient greek mythology any of 9 daughters of zeus and mnemosyne; protector of an art or science
  • Similar words include: contemplate, think over, ponder
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MUSE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "55. Group with the 1994 12x platinum album "CrazySexyCool""

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that considerate and solicitous care
  • Similar words include: tender loving care
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TLC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "57. "Tarnation!""

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37D: "60. Distantly"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (old-fashioned) at or from or to a great distance; far
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AFAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

38D: "61. Underground entrance found in a 73-Across"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a hole (usually with a flush cover) through which a person can gain access to an underground structure
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MANHOLE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

39D: "62. Bread that may have a pocket"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that usually small round bread that can open into a pocket for filling
  • Similar words include: pocket bread
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PITA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

40D: "63. Skeleton, say"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a vehicle mounted on runners and pulled by horses or dogs; for transportation over snow
  • Similar words include: sledge, sleigh
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SLED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

41D: "65. ___ Lock (PC key)"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

42D: "67. Orchestra setting"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a sizeable hole (usually in the ground)
  • Similar words include: endocarp, colliery, play off
  • Opposite of: Heaven
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PIT

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

38 Across Clues
42 Down Clues
80 Total Clues

More NYT Crossword Help

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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: September 03, 2026 at 08:10 AM

Sunday, October 26, 2025

Sunday NYT Down Solutions October 26, 2025 - Every Vertical Clue Decoded with Hints

Today's NYT Crossword Down Clues October 26, 2025 - Complete Top-to-Bottom Answers

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 74 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: August 15 2023 NYT Clues Solutions | August 10 2023 NYT Clues Solutions | March 07 2020 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for October 26, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Sunday, October 26, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date October 26, 2025
Day of Week Sunday
Total Down Clues 74 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Tricky

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 74 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. Pro's camera type
2 Down 2. Numismatist's acquisition
3 Down 3. "Got it," on a radio
4 Down 4. Kutcher of "That '70s Show"
5 Down 5. Like the most pedantic pedant
6 Down 6. Windows upgrades, perhaps
7 Down 7. The "A" in STEAM
8 Down 8. Asian honorific that's an anagram of an English honorific
9 Down 9. Laddie's cap
10 Down 10. "Yes, captain!"
11 Down 11. Letter before zeta
12 Down 12. Singer Page or LaBelle
13 Down 13. Bargain bin abbr.
14 Down 14. Tops of waves
15 Down 15. "Come off it now!"
16 Down 16. Courtyards
17 Down 17. First section of the "Iliad"
18 Down 18. 2013 title role for Asa Butterfield
19 Down 24. Collector's item?
20 Down 26. Addis Ababa residents
21 Down 29. Carrier with a Flying Dutchman magazine
22 Down 32. Jazz trumpeter Baker who was sometimes called the "Prince of Cool"
23 Down 33. "Catch!"
24 Down 34. Handle
25 Down 36. Oprah or Ellen
26 Down 38. Industrial ___
27 Down 39. "Much obliged," in a text
28 Down 40. Head honcho
29 Down 42. Shamefaced
30 Down 44. Kimono closer
31 Down 46. The headline "Kids Make Nutritious Meals," e.g.
32 Down 47. Run off with
33 Down 49. Source of onomatopoeic words
34 Down 50. 1990s Indian P.M.
35 Down 51. Mark on a freshly polished shoe
36 Down 53. Coveter's sin
37 Down 55. Source of some natural dyes and sugars
38 Down 59. The good dinosaur in "The Good Dinosaur"
39 Down 61. Liverpudlian, e.g.
40 Down 63. It holds the line
41 Down 65. Most exceptional
42 Down 66. Pests that bug pups
43 Down 67. Kidnap
44 Down 68. "The ___ the limit!"
45 Down 69. Prepare to drive
46 Down 70. "Not to mention …"
47 Down 72. Breed of Smoky, the first known therapy dog, familiarly
48 Down 75. Objectivist author Rand
49 Down 78. Go out with
50 Down 80. Disposable items by the door of an open house, perhaps
51 Down 82. Sheltered side
52 Down 83. Typical univ. applicants
53 Down 86. "___ Eyes" (Eagles tune)
54 Down 88. Undesirable marks in high school
55 Down 89. X's, to Aphrodite
56 Down 90. Uses "lefty-loosey" on
57 Down 92. Commencement ritual
58 Down 94. Books with legends
59 Down 98. Small crowns
60 Down 100. Location of the malleus, incus and stapes
61 Down 101. Maroon, in a way
62 Down 103. Its leaves are eaten by giraffes
63 Down 104. Froth
64 Down 105. Pay tribute to
65 Down 106. One of the sisters in Chekhov's "Three Sisters"
66 Down 107. Sexology subject
67 Down 108. Pun-filled, say
68 Down 109. ___ squash
69 Down 112. Tax code issues
70 Down 113. Often-skinned body part
71 Down 115. Country music's ___ Young Band
72 Down 117. Head of production?
73 Down 118. PC connection
74 Down 119. Arcade game with pressure sensors for the feet, familiarly

Detailed Hints and Answers for All Down Clues

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

Complete Down Solutions:


1 Down: "1. Pro's camera type"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SLR


2 Down: "2. Numismatist's acquisition"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: C__N
  • Similar words: strike, mint
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a flat metal piece (usually a disc) used as money
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer COIN


3 Down: "3. "Got it," on a radio"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: R___R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ROGER


4 Down: "4. Kutcher of "That '70s Show""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: A____N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: British choreographer (1906-1988)
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ASHTON


5 Down: "5. Like the most pedantic pedant"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: P______T
  • Similar words: lowly, trivial
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: inferior in rank or status
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PETTIEST


6 Down: "6. Windows upgrades, perhaps"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: P___S
  • Similar words: dose, pan off
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: sheet glass cut in shapes for windows or doors
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PANES


7 Down: "7. The "A" in STEAM"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A__S
  • Similar words: artistry, liberal arts
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ARTS


8 Down: "8. Asian honorific that's an anagram of an English honorific"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SRI


9 Down: "9. Laddie's cap"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'M'
  • Similar words: tam-o'-shanter, tammy
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a woolen cap of Scottish origin
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TAM


10 Down: "10. "Yes, captain!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: A____R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AYESIR


11 Down: "11. Letter before zeta"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: E_____N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the 5th letter of the Greek alphabet
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EPSILON


12 Down: "12. Singer Page or LaBelle"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'I'
  • Word pattern: P___I
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PATTI


13 Down: "13. Bargain bin abbr."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IRR


14 Down: "14. Tops of waves"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: C____S
  • Similar words: top, cap
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the top line of a hill
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CRESTS


15 Down: "15. "Come off it now!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: G_____L
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GETREAL


16 Down: "16. Courtyards"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: A___A
  • Similar words: atrium
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ATRIA


17 Down: "17. First section of the "Iliad""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'I'
  • Word pattern: B___I
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BOOKI


18 Down: "18. 2013 title role for Asa Butterfield"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: E___R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ENDER


19 Down: "24. Collector's item?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: O_____T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OLDDEBT


20 Down: "26. Addis Ababa residents"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: E________S
  • Similar words: Ethiopian
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a native or inhabitant of Ethiopia
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ETHIOPIANS


21 Down: "29. Carrier with a Flying Dutchman magazine"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'M'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KLM


22 Down: "32. Jazz trumpeter Baker who was sometimes called the "Prince of Cool""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: C__T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CHET


23 Down: "33. "Catch!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: H__E
  • Similar words: Hera, hither
  • Opposite of: there
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the present location; this place
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HERE


24 Down: "34. Handle"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: N__E
  • Similar words: discover, key out
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a language unit by which a person or thing is known
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NAME


25 Down: "36. Oprah or Ellen"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: T____R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TVSTAR


26 Down: "38. Industrial ___"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'E'
  • Similar words: mature, senesce
  • Opposite of: rejuvenate
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: how long something has existed
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AGE


27 Down: "39. "Much obliged," in a text"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'X'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer THX


28 Down: "40. Head honcho"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: T_______A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TOPBANANA


29 Down: "42. Shamefaced"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: R____L
  • Similar words: remorseful, contrite
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: feeling or expressing pain or sorrow for sins or offenses
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RUEFUL


30 Down: "44. Kimono closer"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'I'
  • Similar words: obeah
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OBI


31 Down: "46. The headline "Kids Make Nutritious Meals," e.g."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: A_______Y
  • Similar words: equivocalness
  • Opposite of: unequivocalness
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AMBIGUITY


32 Down: "47. Run off with"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'H'
  • Word pattern: F___H
  • Similar words: nobble, abstract
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: make off with belongings of others
  • This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FILCH


33 Down: "49. Source of onomatopoeic words"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S____S
  • Similar words: fathom, phone
  • Opposite of: silence
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the particular auditory effect produced by a given cause
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SOUNDS


34 Down: "50. 1990s Indian P.M."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RAO


35 Down: "51. Mark on a freshly polished shoe"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'F'
  • Word pattern: S___F
  • Similar words: mule, drag
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a slipper that has no fitting around the heel
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SCUFF


36 Down: "53. Coveter's sin"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: E__Y
  • Similar words: invidia, enviousness
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 36

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ENVY


37 Down: "55. Source of some natural dyes and sugars"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: B__T
  • Similar words: beetroot, common beet
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 37

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BEET


38 Down: "59. The good dinosaur in "The Good Dinosaur""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: A__O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 38

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ARLO


39 Down: "61. Liverpudlian, e.g."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: B____N
  • Similar words: Britisher, Brit
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a native or inhabitant of Great Britain
  • This is Down clue number 39

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BRITON


40 Down: "63. It holds the line"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: C________N
  • Similar words: clothes peg, clothes pin
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 40

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CLOTHESPIN


41 Down: "65. Most exceptional"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: B__T
  • Similar words: adept, in force
  • Opposite of: badly
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the supreme effort one can make
  • This is Down clue number 41

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BEST


42 Down: "66. Pests that bug pups"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: F___S
  • Similar words: flea
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 42

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FLEAS


43 Down: "67. Kidnap"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: A____T
  • Similar words: kidnap, nobble
  • Opposite of: adduct
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 43

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ABDUCT


44 Down: "68. "The ___ the limit!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S__S
  • Similar words: flip, toss
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the atmosphere and outer space as viewed from the earth
  • This is Down clue number 44

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SKYS


45 Down: "69. Prepare to drive"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: T___P
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 45

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TEEUP


46 Down: "70. "Not to mention …""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: A__O
  • Similar words: besides, as well
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: in addition
  • This is Down clue number 46

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ALSO


47 Down: "72. Breed of Smoky, the first known therapy dog, familiarly"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'Y' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: Y____E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 47

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer YORKIE


48 Down: "75. Objectivist author Rand"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'N'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 48

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AYN


49 Down: "78. Go out with"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'E'
  • Similar words: attend, discover
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 49

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SEE


50 Down: "80. Disposable items by the door of an open house, perhaps"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: B_____S
  • Similar words: dirty money, bootie
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a slipper that is soft and wool (for babies)
  • This is Down clue number 50

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BOOTIES


51 Down: "82. Sheltered side"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'E'
  • Similar words: Tsung Dao Lee, Robert E. Lee
  • Opposite of: windward
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 51

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LEE


52 Down: "83. Typical univ. applicants"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Similar words: steradian, Sr
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 52

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SRS


53 Down: "86. "___ Eyes" (Eagles tune)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: L__N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 53

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LYIN


54 Down: "88. Undesirable marks in high school"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: A__E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 54

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ACNE


55 Down: "89. X's, to Aphrodite"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: C__S
  • Similar words: qi, chi
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 55

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CHIS


56 Down: "90. Uses "lefty-loosey" on"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'U' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: U______S
  • Similar words: unscrew
  • Opposite of: screw
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: loosen something by unscrewing it
  • This is Down clue number 56

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer UNSCREWS


57 Down: "92. Commencement ritual"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: C_____S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 57

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CAPTOSS


58 Down: "94. Books with legends"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A_____S
  • Similar words: book of maps, atlas
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 58

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ATLASES


59 Down: "98. Small crowns"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: T____S
  • Similar words: tiara
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a jeweled headdress worn by women on formal occasions
  • This is Down clue number 59

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TIARAS


60 Down: "100. Location of the malleus, incus and stapes"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'R'
  • Similar words: pinna, spike
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the sense organ for hearing and equilibrium
  • This is Down clue number 60

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EAR


61 Down: "101. Maroon, in a way"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: E____E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 61

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ENISLE


62 Down: "103. Its leaves are eaten by giraffes"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: A____A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: any of various spiny trees or shrubs of the genus Acacia
  • This is Down clue number 62

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ACACIA


63 Down: "104. Froth"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: S___E
  • Similar words: suds, froth
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: foam or froth on the sea
  • This is Down clue number 63

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SPUME


64 Down: "105. Pay tribute to"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: H___R
  • Similar words: award, laurels
  • Opposite of: disrespect
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction
  • This is Down clue number 64

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HONOR


65 Down: "106. One of the sisters in Chekhov's "Three Sisters""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: I___A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 65

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IRINA


66 Down: "107. Sexology subject"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: G___T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 66

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GSPOT


67 Down: "108. Pun-filled, say"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'W' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: W___Y
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: combining clever conception and facetious expression
  • This is Down clue number 67

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer WITTY


68 Down: "109. ___ squash"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: A___N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 68

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ACORN


69 Down: "112. Tax code issues"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: T__S
  • Similar words: steer, topple
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the extreme end of something; especially something pointed
  • This is Down clue number 69

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TIPS


70 Down: "113. Often-skinned body part"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: K__E
  • Similar words: human knee, stifle
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 70

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KNEE


71 Down: "115. Country music's ___ Young Band"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'I'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 71

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ELI


72 Down: "117. Head of production?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'E'
  • Similar words: make water, puddle
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: liquid excretory product
  • This is Down clue number 72

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PEE


73 Down: "118. PC connection"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'N'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 73

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LAN


74 Down: "119. Arcade game with pressure sensors for the feet, familiarly"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'R'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 74

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DDR

Expert Strategies for Solving Down Clues

Master the vertical clues with these professional tips:

Why Start with Down Clues?

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

Down Clue Patterns to Recognize

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

Time-Saving Down Techniques

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

Frequently Asked Questions About Down Clues

What are Down clues in crossword puzzles?

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

Should I solve Down or Across clues first?

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

How many Down clues are in today's puzzle?

Today's NYT crossword has 74 Down clues.

Are Down clues easier than Across clues?

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

How do Down clues interact with Across clues?

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


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

Last Updated: October 26, 2025 at 05:13 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, October 26 2025 down clues