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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

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: September 03, 2026 at 08:10 AM

Sunday, August 16, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers August 16, 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. Work parodied by Umberto Eco's "Granita" 6
2A 7. Subject of Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter" 3
3A 10. One's opponents 4
4A 14. Uncool 4
5A 18. Untold 6
6A 19. Down Under runners 4
7A 21. Caramel-filled candy 4
8A 22. Word following bear or honey 4
9A 23. _ATSO_ and _EKYL_ 21
10A 27. Astonished, informally 5
11A 28. With 45-Across, many a correspondent 3
12A 29. Do business 7
13A 30. Uncle, in Uruguay 3
14A 31. Water nymph of Greek myth 5
15A 33. Poet's Muse 5
16A 34. Memorial ___ Kettering (New York City medical facility) 5
17A 36. _RAVES 19
18A 41. It may be petrified 6
19A 42. Acknowledge 5
20A 43. El ___, Tex. 4
21A 44. Sass 3
22A 45. See 28-Across 3
23A 47. Eggy quaff 3
24A 48. Trudge 4
25A 50. Approaching 4
26A 54. Some funerary selections 4
27A 56. SAG_ 16
28A 60. Stands for speakers 5
29A 62. Preserver of freshness 4
30A 63. Sent 6
31A 64. Place for a sailor's anchor, informally 5
32A 67. Hunk 4
33A 70. Disapproving syllables 4
34A 72. It may be mental 5
35A 73. Out, in a way 6
36A 75. "That's cool, man" 4
37A 77. Words that may open doors 5
38A 79. _NIGHT 16
39A 83. Learning method 4
40A 87. Guard, as a goal 4
41A 88. Get rid of 4
42A 89. "Yadda, yadda" 3
43A 90. Squeaker ... or squealer 3
44A 92. Home improvement initials 3
45A 93. Italian wine city 4
46A 95. Fiber also known as viscose 5
47A 97. Toddler's jumping spot on a rainy day 6
48A 99. FRAN_ 19
49A 104. More reasonable 5
50A 105. Interprets 5
51A 106. Suspended musical instruments 5
52A 107. Vein contents 3
53A 108. Calm 7
54A 111. Title that becomes loftier when an E is added 3
55A 112. Escort to a penthouse, say 5
56A 116. _IALO_ 21
57A 120. Even 4
58A 121. Carry on 4
59A 122. Tender cut 4
60A 123. Pie portions, shapewise 6
61A 124. Crones 4
62A 125. Gas brand that sounds like two letters of the alphabet 4
63A 126. Invention originally developed as a yellow dye 3
64A 127. Refuse to budge 6

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Work parodied by Umberto Eco's "Granita""

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a sexually precocious young girl
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LOLITA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "7. Subject of Hawthorne's "The Scarlet Letter""

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that estrangement from god
  • Similar words include: wickedness, sine, sinfulness
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "10. One's opponents"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "14. Uncool"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that someone who doesn't understand what is going on
  • Similar words include: halt, cripple, halting
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LAME

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "18. Untold"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "19. Down Under runners"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of various systems of units for measuring electricity and magnetism
  • Similar words include: emu, Dromaius novaehollandiae, electromagnetic unit
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EMUS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "21. Caramel-filled candy"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "22. Word following bear or honey"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a device in which something (usually an animal) can be caught and penned
  • Similar words include: sand trap, maw, ambuscade
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TRAP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "23. _ATSO_ and _EKYL_"

21 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____________________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DOCTORSWITHOUTBORDERS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "27. Astonished, informally"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a disassembled barrel; the parts packed for storage or shipment
  • Similar words include: excite, shake off, agitate
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SHOOK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "28. With 45-Across, many a correspondent"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a writing implement with a point from which ink flows
  • Similar words include: write, penitentiary, compose
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "29. Do business"

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that direct or control; projects, businesses, etc.
  • Similar words include: operate on, run, manoeuvre
  • Opposite of: malfunction, disengage
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OPERATE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "30. Uncle, in Uruguay"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "31. Water nymph of Greek myth"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that submerged aquatic plant having narrow leaves and small flowers; of fresh or brackish water
  • Similar words include: water nymph
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NAIAD

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "33. Poet's Muse"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (greek mythology) the muse of lyric and love poetry
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ERATO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "34. Memorial ___ Kettering (New York City medical facility)"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "36. _RAVES"

19 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___________________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NEEDSNOINTRODUCTION

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "41. It may be petrified"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that someone whose style is out of fashion
  • Similar words include: fogy, dodo, fogey
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FOSSIL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "42. Acknowledge"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "43. El ___, Tex."

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "44. Sass"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "45. See 28-Across"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a close friend who accompanies his buddies in their activities
  • Similar words include: chum, brother, crony
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PAL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "47. Eggy quaff"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a wooden pin pushed or driven into a surface
  • Similar words include: peg
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NOG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "48. Trudge"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the act of walking with a slow heavy gait
  • Similar words include: footslog, trudge, tramp
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PLOD

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "50. Approaching"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that not far distant in time or space or degree or circumstances
  • Similar words include: nearly, virtually, near
  • Opposite of: far
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NIGH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "54. Some funerary selections"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a large vase that usually has a pedestal or feet
  • Similar words include: urn
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: URNS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "56. SAG_"

16 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "60. Stands for speakers"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a platform raised above the surrounding level to give prominence to the person on it
  • Similar words include: stump, soapbox, podium
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PODIA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "62. Preserver of freshness"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that fastener consisting of a resinous composition that is plastic when warm; used for sealing documents and parcels and letters
  • Similar words include: Navy SEAL, sealing wax, stamp
  • Opposite of: unseal
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SEAL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "63. Sent"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that fill with high spirits; fill with optimism
  • Similar words include: intoxicate, uplift, pick up
  • Opposite of: dejected, depress
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ELATED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "64. Place for a sailor's anchor, informally"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "67. Hunk"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "70. Disapproving syllables"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that utter `tsk,' `tut,' or `tut-tut,' as in disapproval
  • Similar words include: tsk, tut, tut-tut
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TSKS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "72. It may be mental"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an iconic mental representation
  • Similar words include: picture, figure of speech, figure
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IMAGE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "73. Out, in a way"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that in a state of sleep
  • Similar words include: gone, at rest, numb
  • Opposite of: awake
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASLEEP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36A: "75. "That's cool, man""

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37A: "77. Words that may open doors"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

38A: "79. _NIGHT"

16 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

39A: "83. Learning method"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that memorization by repetition
  • Similar words include: rote learning
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ROTE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

40A: "87. Guard, as a goal"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that have a tendency or disposition to do or be something; be inclined
  • Similar words include: run, incline, lean
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TEND

Remember this word for future puzzles!

41A: "88. Get rid of"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

42A: "89. "Yadda, yadda""

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

43A: "90. Squeaker ... or squealer"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of various long-tailed rodents similar to but larger than a mouse
  • Similar words include: dirty dog, shop, scum bag
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

44A: "92. Home improvement initials"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

45A: "93. Italian wine city"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

46A: "95. Fiber also known as viscose"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a synthetic silklike fabric
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RAYON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

47A: "97. Toddler's jumping spot on a rainy day"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a mixture of wet clay and sand that can be used to line a pond and that is impervious to water when dry
  • Similar words include: addle, make, pool
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PUDDLE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

48A: "99. FRAN_"

19 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___________________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NOTCOMPLETELYHONEST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

49A: "104. More reasonable"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that mentally healthy; free from mental disorder
  • Similar words include: reasonable, sane
  • Opposite of: insane
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SANER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

50A: "105. Interprets"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that something that is read
  • Similar words include: register, understand, take
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: READS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

51A: "106. Suspended musical instruments"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a percussion instrument consisting of a metal plate that is struck with a softheaded drumstick
  • Similar words include: tam-tam, bell, gong
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GONGS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

52A: "107. Vein contents"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a mineral that contains metal that is valuable enough to be mined
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ORE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

53A: "108. Calm"

7 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

54A: "111. Title that becomes loftier when an E is added"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that term of address for a man
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SIR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

55A: "112. Escort to a penthouse, say"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

56A: "116. _IALO_"

21 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____________________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UNLIMITEDTALKANDTEXTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

57A: "120. Even"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that fasten or secure with a rope, string, or cord
  • Similar words include: fastened, splice, trussed
  • Opposite of: untied, untie
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TIED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

58A: "121. Carry on"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a loud bombastic declamation expressed with strong emotion
  • Similar words include: mouth off, blah, fustian
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RANT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

59A: "122. Tender cut"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a cut of meat taken from the side and back of an animal between the ribs and the rump
  • Similar words include: lumbus
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LOIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

60A: "123. Pie portions, shapewise"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any shape that is triangular in cross section
  • Similar words include: hoagie, sub, wedge heel
  • Opposite of: dislodge
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: WEDGES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

61A: "124. Crones"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an ugly evil-looking old woman
  • Similar words include: hagfish, beldame, crone
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HAGS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

62A: "125. Gas brand that sounds like two letters of the alphabet"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

63A: "126. Invention originally developed as a yellow dye"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that explosive consisting of a yellow crystalline compound that is a flammable toxic derivative of toluene
  • Similar words include: trinitrotoluene
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TNT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

64A: "127. Refuse to budge"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that be emphatic or resolute and refuse to budge
  • Similar words include: importune, assert, take a firm stand
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: INSIST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Striplings 4
2D 2. Texter's "Then again ..." 4
3D 3. Bananas 4
4D 4. Chants 7
5D 5. Briefly swam 8
6D 6. Home to more than 1,500 languages: Abbr. 3
7D 7. Affixed, as a patch 7
8D 8. "Let's do this!" 4
9D 9. Macadamia, for one 3
10D 10. Closely following 6
11D 11. Racing vehicle 6
12D 12. Napoleon exile site 4
13D 13. No longer relevant 4
14D 14. Inc., abroad 3
15D 15. Childish comeback 6
16D 16. Maid of Sherwood Forest 6
17D 17. Many a printer 5
18D 20. Consequences of supply chain problems 9
19D 24. Cross 4
20D 25. Dizzying gallery works 5
21D 26. Pauses while playing 5
22D 32. Treasure or desert follower 6
23D 33. Ewoks' home moon 5
24D 35. Job that may involve jumping through hoops 9
25D 36. Form of detective fiction 4
26D 37. Channel for gaming enthusiasts? 4
27D 38. Actress Skye 4
28D 39. Words after check, follow or catch 4
29D 40. Bum 5
30D 41. Reason to take a shot 3
31D 46. Some odoriferous gifts 4
32D 48. Smartphone predecessors, for short 4
33D 49. Female rapper with a longtime feud with Foxy Brown 6
34D 51. "Diminutive" Greek letter 4
35D 52. Nickname that omits "-ory" 4
36D 53. London park 4
37D 55. Chemistry test? 9
38D 57. Travel bag 6
39D 58. Bag 3
40D 59. Not very favorable, as some 84-Down 4
41D 61. Car with a stylized lightning bolt logo 4
42D 64. Thai money 4
43D 65. "Gotcha" 4
44D 66. Group with a tartan 4
45D 68. It may drive one to distraction, in brief 4
46D 69. Thumbnail, maybe 3
47D 71. A-lister 4
48D 74. Sauce traditionally made in a mortar 5
49D 76. Steal 9
50D 78. Attach with a click 6
51D 80. Carpenter's spacer 4
52D 81. Ophthalmology concerns 5
53D 82. Green sci. 4
54D 84. 2 to 5, say 4
55D 85. Infraction at an arcade 4
56D 86. ___ of Horus (Egyptian symbol of healing) 3
57D 91. Element used in bulb filaments 8
58D 94. "Shoo!" 5
59D 95. Display some emotion, perhaps 5
60D 96. Member of the N.F.L.'s "Big Blue," in brief 7
61D 98. Prepares to puree, perhaps, as papayas 7
62D 99. Fantasy realm ruled by King Caspian 6
63D 100. Feature of Anthony Robles, a 2011 N.C.A.A. national champion wrestler 6
64D 101. Shows pride in one's appearance, in a way 6
65D 102. Result in 6
66D 103. Producer of a call to arms 4
67D 104. Go ___ (fail) 5
68D 109. Poop 4
69D 110. School grps. 4
70D 111. Hide 4
71D 113. Vet 4
72D 114. Western Indians 4
73D 115. Subtle summons 4
74D 117. Fingers 3
75D 118. Park place? 3
76D 119. Road recklessness of a sort, for short 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Striplings"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a boy or man
  • Similar words include: sonny boy, cub, lad
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LADS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Texter's "Then again ...""

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Bananas"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that informal or slang terms for mentally irregular
  • Similar words include: buggy, fruity, around the bend
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LOCO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Chants"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that utter monotonously and repetitively and rhythmically
  • Similar words include: tone, chant, intone
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: INTONES

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5D: "5. Briefly swam"

8 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

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6D: "6. Home to more than 1,500 languages: Abbr."

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

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7D: "7. Affixed, as a patch"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

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8D: "8. "Let's do this!""

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

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9D: "9. Macadamia, for one"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that usually large hard-shelled seed
  • Similar words include: fruitcake, nut case, crackpot
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NUT

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10D: "10. Closely following"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

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11D: "11. Racing vehicle"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

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12D: "12. Napoleon exile site"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

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13D: "13. No longer relevant"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a hypothetical case that law students argue as an exercise
  • Similar words include: consider, arguable, debate
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MOOT

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14D: "14. Inc., abroad"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

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15D: "15. Childish comeback"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

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16D: "16. Maid of Sherwood Forest"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that of or relating to or venerating the virgin mary
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MARIAN

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17D: "17. Many a printer"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

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18D: "20. Consequences of supply chain problems"

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the property of being an amount by which something is less than expected or required
  • Similar words include: deficit, dearth, shortfall
  • Pattern: _________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SHORTAGES

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19D: "24. Cross"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the complete duration of something
  • Similar words include: twosome, pair, duad
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SPAN

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20D: "25. Dizzying gallery works"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

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21D: "26. Pauses while playing"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that something left after other parts have been taken away
  • Similar words include: residue, lie, catch one's breath
  • Opposite of: be active, change
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RESTS

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22D: "32. Treasure or desert follower"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a land mass (smaller than a continent) that is surrounded by water
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ISLAND

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23D: "33. Ewoks' home moon"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

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24D: "35. Job that may involve jumping through hoops"

9 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

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25D: "36. Form of detective fiction"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

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26D: "37. Channel for gaming enthusiasts?"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

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27D: "38. Actress Skye"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

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28D: "39. Words after check, follow or catch"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

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29D: "40. Bum"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that ask for and get free; be a parasite
  • Similar words include: bum, scrounge, schnorr
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CADGE

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30D: "41. Reason to take a shot"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an acute febrile highly contagious viral disease
  • Similar words include: grippe, influenza
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FLU

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31D: "46. Some odoriferous gifts"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that flower arrangement consisting of a circular band of foliage or flowers for ornamental purposes
  • Similar words include: wreath, coronal, lei
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LEIS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "48. Smartphone predecessors, for short"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a lightweight consumer electronic device that looks like a hand-held computer but instead performs specific tasks; can serve as a diary or a personal database or a telephone or an alarm clock etc.
  • Similar words include: personal organiser, PDA, personal organizer
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PDAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "49. Female rapper with a longtime feud with Foxy Brown"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

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34D: "51. "Diminutive" Greek letter"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a tiny or scarcely detectable amount
  • Similar words include: whit, smidgin, shred
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IOTA

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35D: "52. Nickname that omits "-ory""

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

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36D: "53. London park"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

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37D: "55. Chemistry test?"

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

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38D: "57. Travel bag"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a small overnight bag for short trips
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: VALISE

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39D: "58. Bag"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a computer network consisting of a worldwide network of computer networks that use the tcp/ip network protocols to facilitate data transmission and exchange
  • Similar words include: earnings, web, profit
  • Opposite of: gross
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NET

Remember this word for future puzzles!

40D: "59. Not very favorable, as some 84-Down"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that take off weight
  • Similar words include: reduce, slenderize, svelte
  • Opposite of: gain
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SLIM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

41D: "61. Car with a stylized lightning bolt logo"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that german industrialist who was the first in germany to use an assembly line in manufacturing automobiles (1871-1948)
  • Similar words include: Wilhelm von Opel
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OPEL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

42D: "64. Thai money"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the basic unit of money in thailand
  • Similar words include: tical
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BAHT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

43D: "65. "Gotcha""

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

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44D: "66. Group with a tartan"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that group of people related by blood or marriage
  • Similar words include: tribe, kindred, kinship group
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CLAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

45D: "68. It may drive one to distraction, in brief"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a condition (mostly in boys) characterized by behavioral and learning disorders
  • Similar words include: attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, ADD, minimal brain damage
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ADHD

Remember this word for future puzzles!

46D: "69. Thumbnail, maybe"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

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47D: "71. A-lister"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (astronomy) a celestial body of hot gases that radiates energy derived from thermonuclear reactions in the interior
  • Similar words include: headliner, whizz, wizard
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

48D: "74. Sauce traditionally made in a mortar"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a sauce typically served with pasta; contains crushed basil leaves and garlic and pine nuts and parmesan cheese in olive oil
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PESTO

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49D: "76. Steal"

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

50D: "78. Attach with a click"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

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51D: "80. Carpenter's spacer"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a thin wedge of material (wood or metal or stone) for driving into crevices
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SHIM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

52D: "81. Ophthalmology concerns"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an infection of the sebaceous gland of the eyelid
  • Similar words include: eye infection, sty, hordeolum
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STYES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

53D: "82. Green sci."

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

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54D: "84. 2 to 5, say"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

55D: "85. Infraction at an arcade"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a combat between two mounted knights tilting against each other with blunted lances
  • Similar words include: disputation, arguing, list
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TILT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

56D: "86. ___ of Horus (Egyptian symbol of healing)"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the organ of sight
  • Similar words include: middle, oculus, center
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EYE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

57D: "91. Element used in bulb filaments"

8 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a heavy grey-white metallic element; the pure form is used mainly in electrical applications; it is found in several ores including wolframite and scheelite
  • Similar words include: atomic number 74, W, wolfram
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TUNGSTEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

58D: "94. "Shoo!""

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that leave immediately; used usually in the imperative form
  • Similar words include: buzz off, get, fuck off
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCRAM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

59D: "95. Display some emotion, perhaps"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that show a response or a reaction to something
  • Similar words include: respond, oppose
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: REACT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

60D: "96. Member of the N.F.L.'s "Big Blue," in brief"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

61D: "98. Prepares to puree, perhaps, as papayas"

7 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

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62D: "99. Fantasy realm ruled by King Caspian"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

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63D: "100. Feature of Anthony Robles, a 2011 N.C.A.A. national champion wrestler"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

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64D: "101. Shows pride in one's appearance, in a way"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that clean with one's bill
  • Similar words include: dress, primp, congratulate
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PREENS

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65D: "102. Result in"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

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66D: "103. Producer of a call to arms"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a noisemaker (as at parties or games) that makes a loud noise when you blow through it
  • Similar words include: trumpet, saddle horn, tusk
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HORN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

67D: "104. Go ___ (fail)"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the region of the united states lying to the south of the mason-dixon line
  • Similar words include: Dixie, Confederate States, Confederate States of America
  • Opposite of: north
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SOUTH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

68D: "109. Poop"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that hoop that covers a wheel
  • Similar words include: tire out, wear upon, wear
  • Opposite of: interest, refresh
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TIRE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

69D: "110. School grps."

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

70D: "111. Hide"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a natural protective body covering and site of the sense of touch
  • Similar words include: shin, scrape, peel
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SKIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

71D: "113. Vet"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

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72D: "114. Western Indians"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a member of the shoshonean people of utah and colorado and new mexico
  • Similar words include: Ute
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UTES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

73D: "115. Subtle summons"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

74D: "117. Fingers"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

75D: "118. Park place?"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (often followed by `of') a large number or amount or extent
  • Similar words include: set, mickle, mint
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LOT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

76D: "119. Road recklessness of a sort, for short"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

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

64 Across Clues
76 Down Clues
140 Total Clues

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Last updated: August 16, 2026 at 04:04 AM