Search Clues

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

Tuesday, May 5, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers May 05, 2026 | Expert Breakdown & Tips

Master today's NYT crossword with our expert hint system. We provide synonyms, antonyms, and strategic clues to help you solve without spoiling the fun. Perfect for crossword lovers who want that satisfying "aha!" moment.

Quick Navigation - Table of Contents

Today's Puzzle Difficulty: Moderate

Pro Tip: Start with the fill-in-the-blank clues - they're usually the easiest entry points!

Across Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Tried-and-true choice, informally 4
2A 5. It's perfect for some musicians 5
3A 10. Motorcyclist's invitation 5
4A 15. Asia's shrinking ___ Sea 4
5A 16. Ruckus 5
6A 17. Where Boise is 5
7A 18. It's a piece of cake 10
8A 20. Computer geeks 5
9A 21. Source of some South American wool 5
10A 22. Alaska politico Palin 5
11A 24. ___-Ball 4
12A 25. Alternative to a Word doc 3
13A 27. It's child's play 9
14A 29. Glassblower, e.g. 7
15A 33. One of three statistical averages 4
16A 34. M.L.B. stadium demolished in 2009 4
17A 35. Ones always blowing off steam? 7
18A 39. Altar promise 3
19A 42. It's a no-brainer 16
20A 45. Starchy tuber 3
21A 46. 2016 Ariana Grande love song 7
22A 47. Drug buster 4
23A 48. Heavy, spiked club 4
24A 50. Bared one's teeth, say 7
25A 52. It's a breeze 9
26A 57. ___-fi 3
27A 58. Sudden or impulsive, as a decision 4
28A 59. Lipstick blunder 5
29A 61. Intermittently offered fast-food pork sandwich 5
30A 65. Oscars host, e.g. 5
31A 67. It's a walk in the park 10
32A 69. Abandon prematurely, as a mission 5
33A 70. Piano exercise 5
34A 71. Fencing blade 4
35A 72. "OMG, same!" 5
36A 73. About 50.7% of all Americans 5
37A 74. Like typical communicators in sign language 4

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

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

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "10. Motorcyclist's invitation"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "16. Ruckus"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "17. Where Boise is"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

10 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "20. Computer geeks"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "22. Alaska politico Palin"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "24. ___-Ball"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

9 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "39. Altar promise"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

16 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "45. Starchy tuber"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "47. Drug buster"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "48. Heavy, spiked club"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

9 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "57. ___-fi"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "59. Lipstick blunder"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

10 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "70. Piano exercise"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "71. Fencing blade"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

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

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Effrontery"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

8 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Charged particles"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Roman robes"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. French sweetheart"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Prohibited in Islam"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Chart-topper"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Mule or burro"

10 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "23. Undeniable successes"

8 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "26. Media misinformation"

8 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "28. Loch ___ monster"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

10 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "38. English facilities"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "43. Pet pests"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "44. Having added nutrients"

8 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "51. Apex"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "55. "Groovy""

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "56. Unit of information"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

38D: "62. Fully matured"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

39D: "63. Swedish furniture supplier"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

40D: "64. Complaint, informally"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Expert Solving Strategies

Start Smart

Begin with fill-in-the-blank clues and short 3-4 letter words. These are your foundation.

Decode the Clues

Question marks indicate wordplay or puns. "Maybe" suggests multiple interpretations.

Use Cross-References

Let intersecting letters guide you. One correct answer unlocks several others.

Build Vocabulary

Common crossword words repeat. Learning them speeds up future solving.

Today's Puzzle Stats

37 Across Clues
42 Down Clues
79 Total Clues

More NYT Crossword Help

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: May 05, 2026 at 06:01 AM

Sunday, September 14, 2025

All NYT Down Clues September 14, 2025 - 74 Vertical Answers with Hints

Today's Down Crossword NYT September 14, 2025 - Every Vertical Solution Explained

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: May 23 2022 NYT Clues Solutions | December 15 2023 NYT Clues Solutions | September 05 2023 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for September 14, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Sunday, September 14, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date September 14, 2025
Day of Week Sunday
Total Down Clues 74 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Challenging

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. Page for online answers
2 Down 2. Stick up
3 Down 3. Source of minerals
4 Down 4. Part of many purses
5 Down 5. It's buried to make peace
6 Down 6. Cost of a cab
7 Down 7. Baldwin of "The Boss Baby"
8 Down 8. Imbecile
9 Down 9. Overhead light?
10 Down 10. Gucci who pioneered bamboo-handled handbags
11 Down 11. Auditorium balcony, e.g.
12 Down 12. Cajun cooking staple
13 Down 13. Shaving on citrus desserts
14 Down 14. "You have my blessing"
15 Down 15. Russian ruler nicknamed "The Moneybag"
16 Down 16. This very moment
17 Down 17. Wine also known as Primitivo, familiarly
18 Down 18. Purchased spots
19 Down 21. View from St. Moritz
20 Down 27. Certain taco topping
21 Down 28. "Uh-uh"
22 Down 29. Run down
23 Down 30. Tied up
24 Down 31. With little excess
25 Down 33. Big ___ Burger, fictional Hawaiian fast-food chain in "Pulp Fiction"
26 Down 34. Cream that's said to combat dark circles
27 Down 35. Holding the biggest grudge
28 Down 38. Prime retail area: Abbr.
29 Down 39. Match up, as two devices
30 Down 40. Oscar-winning Michelle
31 Down 41. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum site
32 Down 42. Dazed and confused
33 Down 45. ___ story
34 Down 46. R&B group with the #1 hit "Waterfalls"
35 Down 47. Stand-up comic Margaret
36 Down 53. It falls in the fall
37 Down 55. Day, in Dijon
38 Down 60. Be part of the crowd, with "in"
39 Down 61. "That feels incredible!"
40 Down 62. Silence-enforcing doc
41 Down 63. Avoid, as a falling anvil
42 Down 64. Spokeswoman in Progressive commercials
43 Down 65. Rising
44 Down 66. Some megafauna, informally
45 Down 67. Summer cabin, maybe
46 Down 68. "Go ___!" (Boston cheer)
47 Down 69. Captain in a classic novel
48 Down 70. "Uh-uh"
49 Down 71. Head over head?
50 Down 74. Actress Pflug
51 Down 75. Rod in a hot rod
52 Down 76. Word after film or pinot
53 Down 78. Vocally combine talking and crooning
54 Down 79. H.S. diploma alternative
55 Down 82. Tummy-toning tool
56 Down 83. Renowned N.Y.C. venue for divas
57 Down 85. Energy-saving vehicle
58 Down 86. Guzzle
59 Down 89. Raw fish dish
60 Down 90. Be a buttinsky
61 Down 92. Lack of a voice
62 Down 97. Witherspoon of "A Wrinkle in Time"
63 Down 98. Modern locale of ancient Babylon
64 Down 99. You, to Shakespeare
65 Down 100. Ozone layer issue
66 Down 101. Accented exclamations
67 Down 102. Two-in-one shampoo and conditioner brand
68 Down 103. Paris's Panthéon, for one
69 Down 104. Latin list shortener, in brief
70 Down 105. Risqué message
71 Down 108. Italian architect Ponti
72 Down 109. Nest builder
73 Down 110. Awe
74 Down 111. "___ heard enough!"

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. Page for online answers"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FAQ


2 Down: "2. Stick up"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'B'
  • Similar words: hook, surcharge
  • Opposite of: undercharge
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ROB


3 Down: "3. Source of minerals"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ORE


4 Down: "4. Part of many purses"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: S___P
  • Similar words: lather, welt
  • Opposite of: unstrap
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STRAP


5 Down: "5. It's buried to make peace"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: H_____T
  • Similar words: tomahawk
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HATCHET


6 Down: "6. Cost of a cab"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: F__E
  • Similar words: come, get along
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an agenda of things to do
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FARE


7 Down: "7. Baldwin of "The Boss Baby""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'C'
  • Word pattern: A__C
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ALEC


8 Down: "8. Imbecile"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: D__O
  • Similar words: fogy, fogey
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: someone whose style is out of fashion
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DODO


9 Down: "9. Overhead light?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: S__R
  • Similar words: starring, virtuoso
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STAR


10 Down: "10. Gucci who pioneered bamboo-handled handbags"

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 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ALDO


11 Down: "11. Auditorium balcony, e.g."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: T__R
  • Similar words: level, tier up
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a relative position or degree of value in a graded group
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TIER


12 Down: "12. Cajun cooking staple"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: O__A
  • Similar words: gumbo, lady's-finger
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: long green edible beaked pods of the okra plant
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OKRA


13 Down: "13. Shaving on citrus desserts"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'Z' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: Z__T
  • Similar words: piquantness, tang
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: vigorous and enthusiastic enjoyment
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ZEST


14 Down: "14. "You have my blessing""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 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 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GOFORIT


15 Down: "15. Russian ruler nicknamed "The Moneybag""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'I'
  • Word pattern: I___I
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IVANI


16 Down: "16. This very moment"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'W'
  • Similar words: straight off, immediately
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the momentary present
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NOW


17 Down: "17. Wine also known as Primitivo, familiarly"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'Z' and ends with 'N'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ZIN


18 Down: "18. Purchased spots"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Similar words: ad, advertizement
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a public promotion of some product or service
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ADS


19 Down: "21. View from St. Moritz"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'P'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: any high mountain
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ALP


20 Down: "27. Certain taco topping"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: M_______A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MILDSALSA


21 Down: "28. "Uh-uh""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: I_______T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ITHINKNOT


22 Down: "29. Run down"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: D____E
  • Similar words: sully, calumniate
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DEFAME


23 Down: "30. Tied up"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: E____D
  • Similar words: even, even out
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: make level or straight
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EVENED


24 Down: "31. With little excess"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: L____Y
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LEANLY


25 Down: "33. Big ___ Burger, fictional Hawaiian fast-food chain in "Pulp Fiction""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: K____A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KAHUNA


26 Down: "34. Cream that's said to combat dark circles"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: E____L
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EYEGEL


27 Down: "35. Holding the biggest grudge"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: S____T
  • Similar words: afflictive, huffy
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: hurting
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SOREST


28 Down: "38. Prime retail area: Abbr."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: M____T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MAINST


29 Down: "39. Match up, as two devices"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'C'
  • Word pattern: S__C
  • Similar words: synchronise, synchronize
  • Opposite of: desynchronize
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: make synchronous and adjust in time or manner
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SYNC


30 Down: "40. Oscar-winning Michelle"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'Y' and ends with 'H'
  • Word pattern: Y__H
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer YEOH


31 Down: "41. Pearl Harbor Aviation Museum site"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'U'
  • Word pattern: O__U
  • Similar words: Oahu Island
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OAHU


32 Down: "42. Dazed and confused"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: S____Y
  • Similar words: spacy, spaced-out
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: stupefied by (or as if by) some narcotic drug
  • This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SPACEY


33 Down: "45. ___ story"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'B'
  • Similar words: dickhead, son of a bitch
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a dyspneic condition
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SOB


34 Down: "46. R&B group with the #1 hit "Waterfalls""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'C'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: considerate and solicitous care
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TLC


35 Down: "47. Stand-up comic Margaret"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'O'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CHO


36 Down: "53. It falls in the fall"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'F'
  • Word pattern: L__F
  • Similar words: riffle, riff
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 36

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LEAF


37 Down: "55. Day, in Dijon"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'J' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: J__R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 37

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer JOUR


38 Down: "60. Be part of the crowd, with "in""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'T'
  • Similar words: tantrum, scene
  • Opposite of: disagree
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a display of bad temper
  • This is Down clue number 38

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FIT


39 Down: "61. "That feels incredible!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'H'
  • Similar words: ooh
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: express admiration and pleasure by uttering `ooh' or `aah'
  • This is Down clue number 39

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AAH


40 Down: "62. Silence-enforcing doc"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'A'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 40

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NDA


41 Down: "63. Avoid, as a falling anvil"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: D___E
  • Similar words: sidestep, scheme
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 41

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DODGE


42 Down: "64. Spokeswoman in Progressive commercials"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'O'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 42

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FLO


43 Down: "65. Rising"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'U' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: U____D
  • Similar words: up, upwardly
  • Opposite of: down
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: directed up
  • This is Down clue number 43

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer UPWARD


44 Down: "66. Some megafauna, informally"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: R____S
  • Similar words: rhino, rhinoceros
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 44

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RHINOS


45 Down: "67. Summer cabin, maybe"

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: renting, letting
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: property that is leased or rented out or let
  • This is Down clue number 45

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RENTAL


46 Down: "68. "Go ___!" (Boston cheer)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'X'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 46

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SOX


47 Down: "69. Captain in a classic novel"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'B'
  • Word pattern: A__B
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 47

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AHAB


48 Down: "70. "Uh-uh""

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
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 48

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NOPE


49 Down: "71. Head over head?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'M'
  • Word pattern: T___M
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 49

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TOTEM


50 Down: "74. Actress Pflug"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'J' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: J___N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 50

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer JOANN


51 Down: "75. Rod in a hot rod"

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
  • Definition: a shaft on which a wheel rotates
  • This is Down clue number 51

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AXLE


52 Down: "76. Word after film or pinot"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: N__R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 52

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NOIR


53 Down: "78. Vocally combine talking and crooning"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'G'
  • Word pattern: S_______G
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 53

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SPEAKSING


54 Down: "79. H.S. diploma alternative"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'D'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 54

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GED


55 Down: "82. Tummy-toning tool"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 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 55

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ABROLLER


56 Down: "83. Renowned N.Y.C. venue for divas"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: M______A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 56

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer METOPERA


57 Down: "85. Energy-saving vehicle"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: G______R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 57

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GREENCAR


58 Down: "86. Guzzle"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: G______N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 58

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GULPDOWN


59 Down: "89. Raw fish dish"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: P__E
  • Similar words: biff, thump
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 59

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer POKE


60 Down: "90. Be a buttinsky"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'Y'
  • Similar words: intrude, pry bar
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a heavy iron lever with one end forged into a wedge
  • This is Down clue number 60

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PRY


61 Down: "92. Lack of a voice"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: N___Y
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 61

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NOSAY


62 Down: "97. Witherspoon of "A Wrinkle in Time""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: R___E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 62

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer REESE


63 Down: "98. Modern locale of ancient Babylon"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'Q'
  • Word pattern: I__Q
  • Similar words: Al-Iraq, Irak
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 63

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IRAQ


64 Down: "99. You, to Shakespeare"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'U'
  • Word pattern: T__U
  • Similar words: 1000, thousand
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the cardinal number that is the product of 10 and 100
  • This is Down clue number 64

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer THOU


65 Down: "100. Ozone layer issue"

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: trap, hole out
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an opening into or through something
  • This is Down clue number 65

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HOLE


66 Down: "101. Accented exclamations"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: O__S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 66

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OLES


67 Down: "102. Two-in-one shampoo and conditioner brand"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: P__T
  • Similar words: saucy, irreverent
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: characterized by a lightly pert and exuberant quality
  • This is Down clue number 67

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PERT


68 Down: "103. Paris's Panthéon, for one"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'B'
  • Word pattern: T__B
  • Similar words: grave
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 68

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TOMB


69 Down: "104. Latin list shortener, in brief"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: E__L
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 69

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ETAL


70 Down: "105. Risqué message"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: S__T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the fourth of the seven canonical hours; about noon
  • This is Down clue number 70

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SEXT


71 Down: "108. Italian architect Ponti"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GIO


72 Down: "109. Nest builder"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'N'
  • Similar words: biddy
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: adult female chicken
  • This is Down clue number 72

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HEN


73 Down: "110. Awe"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'W' and ends with 'W'
  • Similar words: scream, thigh-slapper
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a joke that seems extremely funny
  • This is Down clue number 73

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer WOW


74 Down: "111. "___ heard enough!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IVE

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: September 14, 2025 at 05:12 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, September 14 2025 down clues