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January 21, 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2020

Difficulty Level: Medium Tuesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 76 (39 Across, 37 Down)

Average Word Length: 4.9 letters

January 21, 2020 Across Hints: NYT Tuesday Crossword Answers

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Ideologies 4
2A 5. Something to pitch or break 4
3A 9. "I give up!" 5
4A 14. Ham or lamb 4
5A 15. ___ bowl (health food offering) 4
6A 16. 1988 Summer Olympics city 5
7A 17. Subject of interest to a 23andMe user 4
8A 18. Vivacious 4
9A 19. "You are not!" retort 5
10A 20. Cellphone button 8
11A 22. Tiny sound? 5
12A 23. Xylophonist's need 6
13A 24. URL ending 3
14A 25. Hit from the '60s? 3
15A 27. "Baa baa" mama 3
16A 28. Groups plotting coups 6
17A 31. "Casablanca" setting 4
18A 32. IV solution 6
19A 33. English school that's a rival of Harrow 4
20A 34. Party purchase ... or a hint to each circled letter set 13
21A 38. Brief moments 4
22A 39. Bronze and brass 6
23A 40. Aviated 4
24A 41. Unburdened by 6
25A 42. A.T.F. agent, e.g. 3
26A 45. ___-told 3
27A 46. Keyboard key pressed by a pinkie 3
28A 47. "Nothing in life is fun for the whole ___": Jerry Seinfeld 6
29A 49. Prepped, as apples for baking 5
30A 51. Tiffs 8
31A 53. River rental 5
32A 54. "Aaron ___, Sir" (song from "Hamilton") 4
33A 55. Panache 4
34A 56. Fluorescent bulb filler 5
35A 57. Major Baltic port 4
36A 58. Desktop image 4
37A 59. Quick to anger 5
38A 60. Pour forth 4
39A 61. Grasps 4

Let's Solve the Across Clues Together!

Here are helpful hints to solve each clue. Remember, crossword puzzles are like word games - have fun with them!

Clue 1 Across: "1. Ideologies"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school
  • Words that mean the same thing: doctrine, school of thought, ism
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ISMS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "5. Something to pitch or break"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that temporary living quarters specially built by the army for soldiers
  • Words that mean the same thing: ingroup, pack, cantonment
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CAMP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "9. "I give up!""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the brother of your father or mother; the husband of your aunt
  • The opposite would be: aunt
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: UNCLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. Ham or lamb"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the flesh of animals (including fishes and birds and snails) used as food
  • Words that mean the same thing: heart, substance, nub
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MEAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "15. ___ bowl (health food offering)"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about food & drink.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACAI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "16. 1988 Summer Olympics city"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about geography.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the capital of south korea and the largest city of asia; located in northwestern south korea
  • Words that mean the same thing: capital of South Korea
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SEOUL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "17. Subject of interest to a 23andMe user"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (genetics) a segment of dna that is involved in producing a polypeptide chain; it can include regions preceding and following the coding dna as well as introns between the exons; it is considered a unit of heredity
  • Words that mean the same thing: factor, cistron
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GENE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "18. Vivacious"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that characterized by a lightly pert and exuberant quality
  • Words that mean the same thing: irreverent, saucy, impertinent
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PERT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "19. "You are not!" retort"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IAMSO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "20. Cellphone button"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a star-shaped character * used in printing
  • Words that mean the same thing: star
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ASTERISK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "22. Tiny sound?"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an arm off of a larger body of water (often between rocky headlands)
  • Words that mean the same thing: intake, recess
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: INLET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "23. Xylophonist's need"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a sports implement with a long handle and a head like a hammer; used in sports (polo or croquet) to hit a ball
  • Words that mean the same thing: hammer, beetle
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MALLET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "24. URL ending"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ORG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "25. Hit from the '60s?"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a hard clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a powerful hallucinogenic drug manufactured from lysergic acid
  • Words that mean the same thing: lysergic acid diethylamide
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LSD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "27. "Baa baa" mama"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a member of a people living in southern benin and togo and southeastern ghana
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EWE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "28. Groups plotting coups"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a clique (often secret) that seeks power usually through intrigue
  • Words that mean the same thing: conspiracy, conjure, faction
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CABALS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "31. "Casablanca" setting"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a small restaurant where drinks and snacks are sold
  • Words that mean the same thing: coffee bar, coffee shop, coffeehouse
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CAFE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "32. IV solution"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an isotonic solution of sodium chloride and distilled water
  • Words that mean the same thing: saline solution
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SALINE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "33. English school that's a rival of Harrow"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ETON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "34. Party purchase ... or a hint to each circled letter set"

Quick Info: This answer has 13 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SIXPACKOFBEER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "38. Brief moments"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that 1/60 of a minute; the basic unit of time adopted under the systeme international d'unites
  • Words that mean the same thing: second, Securities and Exchange Commission, s
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SECS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "39. Bronze and brass"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a mixture containing two or more metallic elements or metallic and nonmetallic elements usually fused together or dissolving into each other when molten
  • Words that mean the same thing: metal, admixture, debase
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALLOYS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "40. Aviated"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that travel through the air; be airborne
  • Words that mean the same thing: wing, vaporize, take flight
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FLEW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "41. Unburdened by"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FREEOF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "42. A.T.F. agent, e.g."

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that any federal law-enforcement officer
  • Words that mean the same thing: Federal, Federal Reserve, Federal Reserve System
  • The opposite would be: starve
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "45. ___-told"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that many times at short intervals
  • Words that mean the same thing: often, frequently, ofttimes
  • The opposite would be: rarely, infrequently
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OFT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "46. Keyboard key pressed by a pinkie"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the bill in a restaurant
  • Words that mean the same thing: tablet, tabloid, tab key
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TAB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "47. "Nothing in life is fun for the whole ___": Jerry Seinfeld"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a social unit living together
  • Words that mean the same thing: household, kinsfolk, kinfolk
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FAMILY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "49. Prepped, as apples for baking"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that remove the core or center from
  • Words that mean the same thing: core
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CORED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "51. Tiffs"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an angry dispute
  • Words that mean the same thing: words, run-in, wrangle
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: QUARRELS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "53. River rental"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about geography.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that small and light boat; pointed at both ends; propelled with a paddle
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CANOE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "54. "Aaron ___, Sir" (song from "Hamilton")"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about music.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that seed vessel having hooks or prickles
  • Words that mean the same thing: bur, Aaron Burr
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BURR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "55. Panache"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that quality of being active or spirited or alive and vigorous
  • Words that mean the same thing: spiritedness, vivification, invigoration
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BRIO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "56. Fluorescent bulb filler"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a colorless and odorless inert gas; one of the six inert gases; comprises approximately 1% of the earth's atmosphere
  • Words that mean the same thing: atomic number 18, Ar
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ARGON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "57. Major Baltic port"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a port city on the gulf of riga that is the capital and largest city of latvia; formerly a member of the hanseatic league
  • Words that mean the same thing: capital of Latvia
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RIGA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Across: "58. Desktop image"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (computer science) a graphic symbol (usually a simple picture) that denotes a program or a command or a data file or a concept in a graphical user interface
  • Words that mean the same thing: picture, ikon, image
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ICON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Across: "59. Quick to anger"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that easily irritated or annoyed
  • Words that mean the same thing: techy, pettish, irritable
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TESTY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Across: "60. Pour forth"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that expel or eject (saliva or phlegm or sputum) from the mouth
  • Words that mean the same thing: vomit, barf, retch
  • The opposite would be: keep down
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SPEW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Across: "61. Grasps"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a return on a shot that seemed impossible to reach and would normally have resulted in a point for the opponent
  • Words that mean the same thing: bugger off, gravel, find
  • The opposite would be: end, leave
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GETS

    Great job if you got it right!

Down Clues Decoded - Tuesday NYT Crossword January 21, 2020

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. "Sign me up!" 6
2D 2. Go back and forth 6
3D 3. Layer below the earth's crust 6
4D 4. Shade of blue 5
5D 5. Symbol on a Braves baseball cap 8
6D 6. "Bullets," in poker 4
7D 7. Old German money 4
8D 8. Orchestra locale 3
9D 9. On drugs 5
10D 10. Beat writer ___ Cassady 4
11D 11. Not be punctual 8
12D 12. Greatly desires 8
13D 13. "Mr. Blue Sky" band, for short 3
14D 21. Sportscast summary 5
15D 22. E-file recipient, in brief 3
16D 24. Soccer stadium chant 6
17D 26. Study 3
18D 29. Upset stomach soother, informally 6
19D 30. Twistable joint 5
20D 31. They'll earn you a 2.0 4
21D 32. Annual Austin festival, for short 4
22D 34. Healthy diet and regular exercise, say 8
23D 35. Barkeep's grabber 8
24D 36. Hullabaloo 8
25D 37. Hands down 5
26D 38. Airport across the bay from OAK 3
27D 41. Pokémon Go, in the late 2010s, e.g. 3
28D 42. Savage 6
29D 43. Mama Cass 6
30D 44. Vacuum cleaners featuring "cyclone" technology 6
31D 46. Minuscule 5
32D 48. "Live and Let Die" villain 5
33D 50. Rummage (through) 4
34D 51. Witticism 4
35D 52. Advocate for 4
36D 53. Cougar or cheetah 3
37D 54. Abbr. in a real estate ad 3

Now Let's Solve the Down Clues!

Down clues go from top to bottom. Use the letters from your across answers to help!

Clue 1 Down: "1. "Sign me up!""

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IMGAME

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Go back and forth"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a plaything consisting of a board balanced on a fulcrum; the board is ridden up and down by children at either end
  • Words that mean the same thing: dandle board, totter, teeter
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SEESAW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Layer below the earth's crust"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the cloak as a symbol of authority
  • Words that mean the same thing: chimneypiece, blanket, pallium
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MANTLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Shade of blue"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an alloy of iron with small amounts of carbon; widely used in construction; mechanical properties can be varied over a wide range
  • Words that mean the same thing: blade, brand, nerve
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STEEL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Symbol on a Braves baseball cap"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CAPITALA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. "Bullets," in poker"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the smallest whole number or a numeral representing this number
  • Words that mean the same thing: maven, mavin, wizard
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Old German money"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a number or letter indicating quality (especially of a student's performance)
  • Words that mean the same thing: marker, soft touch, sucker
  • The opposite would be: ignore
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MARK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Orchestra locale"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a sizeable hole (usually in the ground)
  • Words that mean the same thing: cavity, quarry, play off
  • The opposite would be: Heaven
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PIT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. On drugs"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an act that exploits or victimizes someone (treats them unfairly)
  • Words that mean the same thing: victimization, habituate, use
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: USING

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Beat writer ___ Cassady"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about literature.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NEAL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Not be punctual"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: COMELATE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Greatly desires"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LUSTSFOR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. "Mr. Blue Sky" band, for short"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about abbreviation.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ELO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "21. Sportscast summary"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about sports.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a summary at the end that repeats the substance of a longer discussion
  • Words that mean the same thing: retread, recapitulation, recapitulate
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RECAP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "22. E-file recipient, in brief"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the bureau of the treasury department responsible for tax collections
  • Words that mean the same thing: Internal Revenue Service
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IRS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "24. Soccer stadium chant"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OLEOLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "26. Study"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the habitation of wild animals
  • Words that mean the same thing: hideaway, hideout, lair
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "29. Upset stomach soother, informally"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BICARB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "30. Twistable joint"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a gliding joint between the distal ends of the tibia and fibula and the proximal end of the talus
  • Words that mean the same thing: ankle joint, articulatio talocruralis, mortise joint
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ANKLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "31. They'll earn you a 2.0"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CEES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "32. Annual Austin festival, for short"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about abbreviation.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SXSW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "34. Healthy diet and regular exercise, say"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SELFCARE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "35. Barkeep's grabber"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ICETONGS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "36. Hullabaloo"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FOOFARAW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "37. Hands down"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BYFAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "38. Airport across the bay from OAK"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SFO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "41. Pokémon Go, in the late 2010s, e.g."

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an interest followed with exaggerated zeal
  • Words that mean the same thing: rage, craze, furore
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FAD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "42. Savage"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that marked by extreme and violent energy
  • Words that mean the same thing: furious, violent, rough
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FIERCE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "43. Mama Cass"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ELLIOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "44. Vacuum cleaners featuring "cyclone" technology"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DYSONS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "46. Minuscule"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (used informally) very small
  • Words that mean the same thing: bittie, teensy, weensy
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TEENY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "48. "Live and Let Die" villain"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MRBIG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "50. Rummage (through)"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (botany) the usually underground organ that lacks buds or leaves or nodes; absorbs water and mineral salts; usually it anchors the plant to the ground
  • Words that mean the same thing: tooth root, ancestor, source
  • The opposite would be: descendant
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ROOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "51. Witticism"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a witty saying
  • Words that mean the same thing: gag, wisecrack, epigram
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: QUIP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "52. Advocate for"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an instinctive motive
  • Words that mean the same thing: impulse, inspire, root on
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: URGE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "53. Cougar or cheetah"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that feline mammal usually having thick soft fur and no ability to roar: domestic cats; wildcats
  • Words that mean the same thing: vomit, barf, Caterpillar
  • The opposite would be: keep down
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "54. Abbr. in a real estate ad"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about geography.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a nonmetallic heavy volatile corrosive dark brown liquid element belonging to the halogens; found in sea water
  • Words that mean the same thing: Brigate Rosse, Br, BR
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BRS

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 55 72.4%
Short Answer 12 15.8%
Geography 3 3.9%
Abbreviation 2 2.6%
Food & Drink 1 1.3%
Music 1 1.3%
Literature 1 1.3%
Sports 1 1.3%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 39
Down Clues 37
Total Clues 76
Average Answer Length 4.9 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 13 letters

Fun Tips to Solve Crossword Puzzles!

  • Start with short words first - they're usually easier!
  • Look for clues with blanks to fill in - these are like fill-in-the-blank questions at school
  • When letters cross, they must be the same in both words - this helps you check if you're right!
  • Today is Tuesday, and these puzzles are usually medium level
  • Most clues today are about general knowledge
  • The average word today has about 4 letters
  • Remember: It's okay to take breaks and come back later with fresh eyes!
  • Ask someone for help if you need it - crosswords are more fun with friends!

Explore more crossword solutions and helpful guides to improve your solving skills:

Disclaimer: Crossword clues are property of The New York Times. This educational content is designed to help puzzle enthusiasts improve their solving skills.

Last Updated: September 27, 2025 at 02:38 PM

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

May 14, 2021 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Related Puzzles

Check out these other crossword solutions and helpful guides:

Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Friday, May 14, 2021

Difficulty Level: Moderate Wednesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 70 (35 Across, 35 Down)

Average Word Length: 5.5 letters

Across Clues Explained - Friday NYT Crossword May 14, 2021

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Gold Coast port 5
2A 6. Grade 4
3A 10. Certain hieroglyphs 4
4A 14. Snacks known as "student fodder" and "scroggin" in Germany and New Zealand, respectively 10
5A 16. Home of the Starzz, one of the original eight W.N.B.A. teams 4
6A 17. What few fliers desire 10
7A 18. Michael of "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World" 4
8A 19. Bug expert? 3
9A 20. Winter Olympics equipment 5
10A 21. See 44-Down 5
11A 22. Old Forester and Old Overholt offerings 4
12A 23. Ethereum or Bitcoin, for example 6
13A 25. Shame 5
14A 27. Site of an underground pool, maybe 6
15A 28. Get an 800 on the G.M.A.T., say 5
16A 29. Animal that comes to shore to lay eggs 9
17A 32. Bel ___ (Italian cheese) 5
18A 33. One of the Kennedys 3
19A 34. Single-___ 5
20A 35. Leftovers from a doughnut, say 9
21A 37. Easy two-pointer 5
22A 38. Deep cuts 6
23A 39. Bad sorts to be stuck talking to at a gathering 5
24A 40. Savory Scottish delicacy 6
25A 41. Go down 4
26A 42. Drug kingpin on "The Wire" 5
27A 43. Coffee spot? 5
28A 45. Comedian Margaret 3
29A 48. Actor who played Senator Vinick on "The West Wing" 4
30A 49. Historic Charleston site 10
31A 51. St. ___, locale in an English nursery rhyme 4
32A 52. One way to crack a code 10
33A 53. Studies 4
34A 54. "Got it" 4
35A 55. People 5

Let's Solve the Across Clues Together!

Here are helpful hints to solve each clue. Remember, crossword puzzles are like word games - have fun with them!

Clue 1 Across: "1. Gold Coast port"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the capital and largest city of ghana with a deep-water port
  • Words that mean the same thing: capital of Ghana
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACCRA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "6. Grade"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a magnitude or frequency relative to a time unit
  • Words that mean the same thing: grade, rank, charge per unit
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RATE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "10. Certain hieroglyphs"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that of southern europe; similar to but smaller than the adder
  • Words that mean the same thing: asp, Naja haje, Egyptian cobra
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ASPS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. Snacks known as "student fodder" and "scroggin" in Germany and New Zealand, respectively"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: __________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TRAILMIXES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "16. Home of the Starzz, one of the original eight W.N.B.A. teams"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a state in the western united states; settled in 1847 by mormons led by brigham young
  • Words that mean the same thing: UT, Mormon State, Beehive State
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: UTAH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "17. What few fliers desire"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: __________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MIDDLESEAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "18. Michael of "Scott Pilgrim vs. the World""

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CERA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "19. Bug expert?"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (military) a secret agent hired by a state to obtain information about its enemies or by a business to obtain industrial secrets from competitors
  • Words that mean the same thing: spot, snoop, stag
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SPY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "20. Winter Olympics equipment"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about sports.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a vehicle mounted on runners and pulled by horses or dogs; for transportation over snow
  • Words that mean the same thing: sled, sleigh, sledge
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SLEDS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "21. See 44-Down"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the region of the united states lying to the north of the mason-dixon line
  • Words that mean the same thing: Second Earl of Guilford, Union, northerly
  • The opposite would be: south
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NORTH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "22. Old Forester and Old Overholt offerings"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the seed of the cereal grass
  • Words that mean the same thing: rye whisky, Secale cereale, rye whiskey
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RYES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "23. Ethereum or Bitcoin, for example"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EMONEY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "25. Shame"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that cause to feel shame; hurt the pride of
  • Words that mean the same thing: humble, chagrin, mortify
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ABASE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "27. Site of an underground pool, maybe"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a small cave (usually with attractive features)
  • Words that mean the same thing: grot
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GROTTO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "28. Get an 800 on the G.M.A.T., say"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACEIT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "29. Animal that comes to shore to lay eggs"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SEATURTLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "32. Bel ___ (Italian cheese)"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PAESE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "33. One of the Kennedys"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a tough youth of 1950's and 1960's wearing edwardian style clothes
  • Words that mean the same thing: Teddy boy
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "34. Single-___"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a person who pays money for something
  • Words that mean the same thing: remunerator
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PAYER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "35. Leftovers from a doughnut, say"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TIREMARKS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "37. Easy two-pointer"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TIPIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "38. Deep cuts"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a wound made by cutting
  • Words that mean the same thing: slash, slice, gash
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GASHES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "39. Bad sorts to be stuck talking to at a gathering"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a person who evokes boredom
  • Words that mean the same thing: drill hole, tire, caliber
  • The opposite would be: interest
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BORES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "40. Savory Scottish delicacy"

Quick Info: This answer has 6 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that made of sheep's or calf's viscera minced with oatmeal and suet and onions and boiled in the animal's stomach
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HAGGIS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "41. Go down"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that fail to keep or to maintain; cease to have, either physically or in an abstract sense
  • Words that mean the same thing: miss, fall back, fall behind
  • The opposite would be: find, win
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LOSE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "42. Drug kingpin on "The Wire""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MARLO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "43. Coffee spot?"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a soiled or discolored appearance
  • Words that mean the same thing: smirch, grime, discolouration
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STAIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "45. Comedian Margaret"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CHO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "48. Actor who played Senator Vinick on "The West Wing""

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALDA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "49. Historic Charleston site"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: __________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FORTSUMTER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "51. St. ___, locale in an English nursery rhyme"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that united states composer noted for his innovative use of polytonality (1874-1954)
  • Words that mean the same thing: James Ives, James Merritt Ives, Charles Edward Ives
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IVES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "52. One way to crack a code"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: __________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BRUTEFORCE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "53. Studies"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the habitation of wild animals
  • Words that mean the same thing: den, hideout, hideaway
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DENS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "54. "Got it""

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ISEE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "55. People"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that your parents
  • Words that mean the same thing: kinfolk, sept, family line
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FOLKS

    Great job if you got it right!

May 14, 2021 Down Hints: NYT Friday Crossword Guide

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. You can bank on them 4
2D 2. "___ Camp," 2020 Oscar-nominated documentary 4
3D 3. Women's rights pioneer Elizabeth ___ Stanton 4
4D 4. Clear 3
5D 5. Words from Mission Control 12
6D 6. Stops lying 5
7D 7. Cut 4
8D 8. Things that pique your interest on TV 9
9D 9. 14 billion years, for the age of the universe: Abbr. 3
10D 10. "You thought wrong!" 11
11D 11. Judge unfairly, say 10
12D 12. Person in a contract 5
13D 13. Bygone potentate 4
14D 15. Hockey game highlight, for some 5
15D 21. Unsatisfactory 12
16D 22. Begin the toasting process 11
17D 24. Zinger 3
18D 25. Kind of berry 4
19D 26. Oktoberfest locale 10
20D 27. Does a deep dive on a topic, with "out" 5
21D 28. Inclined 3
22D 29. They can cause anxiety 9
23D 30. Gifts that are usually scented 4
24D 31. West end? 3
25D 36. Bigeye tuna 3
26D 39. U.S. city that's home to the largest Basque population outside Spain 5
27D 40. Split, in a way 5
28D 41. Tall order? 5
29D 42. One of eight in "The Twelve Days of Christmas" 4
30D 44. With 21-Across, straight up 4
31D 45. 2017 double-platinum debut album for SZA 4
32D 46. "Shucks!" 4
33D 47. Raw materials 4
34D 49. Govt. org. whose director serves a 10-year term 3
35D 50. "How now?," to a cow? 3

Now Let's Solve the Down Clues!

Down clues go from top to bottom. Use the letters from your across answers to help!

Clue 1 Down: "1. You can bank on them"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a unit of pressure: the pressure that will support a column of mercury 760 mm high at sea level and 0 degrees centigrade
  • Words that mean the same thing: cash machine, cash dispenser, automatic teller machine
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ATMS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. "___ Camp," 2020 Oscar-nominated documentary"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about movies/film.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CRIP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Women's rights pioneer Elizabeth ___ Stanton"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CADY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Clear"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that relieve from
  • Words that mean the same thing: disembarrass, free
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RID

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Words from Mission Control"

Quick Info: This answer has 12 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALLSYSTEMSGO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Stops lying"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a growth in strength or number or importance
  • Words that mean the same thing: move up, come up, upgrade
  • The opposite would be: set, descent
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RISES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Cut"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that chop or split with an ax
  • Words that mean the same thing: ax, axe
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AXED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Things that pique your interest on TV"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: _________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TEASERADS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. 14 billion years, for the age of the universe: Abbr."

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about abbreviation.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that standard time in the 5th time zone west of greenwich, reckoned at the 75th meridian; used in the eastern united states
  • Words that mean the same thing: Eastern Standard Time, Eastern Time
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. "You thought wrong!""

Quick Info: This answer has 11 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AUCONTRAIRE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Judge unfairly, say"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a conventional or formulaic conception or image
  • Words that mean the same thing: pigeonhole, stamp
  • The word looks like this: __________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STEREOTYPE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Person in a contract"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an organization to gain political power
  • Words that mean the same thing: political party, company
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PARTY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. Bygone potentate"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that title for the former hereditary monarch of iran
  • Words that mean the same thing: Shah of Iran
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SHAH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "15. Hockey game highlight, for some"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about sports.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a noisy riotous fight
  • Words that mean the same thing: scrimmage, battle royal
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MELEE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "21. Unsatisfactory"

Quick Info: This answer has 12 letters. It's a hard clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NOTUPTOSNUFF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "22. Begin the toasting process"

Quick Info: This answer has 11 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RAISEAGLASS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "24. Zinger"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a clever remark
  • Words that mean the same thing: bon mot, MOT test, Ministry of Transportation test
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "25. Kind of berry"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACAI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "26. Oktoberfest locale"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: __________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BEERGARDEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "27. Does a deep dive on a topic, with "out""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a carnival performer who does disgusting acts
  • Words that mean the same thing: eccentric, flake, geek
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GEEKS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "28. Inclined"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (usually followed by `to') naturally disposed toward
  • Words that mean the same thing: disposed, clever, pertinent
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: APT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "29. They can cause anxiety"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that any agent that causes stress to an organism
  • Words that mean the same thing: stressor
  • The word looks like this: _________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STRESSORS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "30. Gifts that are usually scented"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that flower arrangement consisting of a circular band of foliage or flowers for ornamental purposes
  • Words that mean the same thing: wreath, chaplet, lei
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LEIS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "31. West end?"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that bulky greyish-brown eagle with a short wedge-shaped white tail; of europe and greenland
  • Words that mean the same thing: European sea eagle, grey sea eagle, erne
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ERN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "36. Bigeye tuna"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AHI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "39. U.S. city that's home to the largest Basque population outside Spain"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about geography.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the capital and largest city of idaho
  • Words that mean the same thing: capital of Idaho
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BOISE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "40. Split, in a way"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that divide by two; divide into halves
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HALVE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "41. Tall order?"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that strong espresso coffee with a topping of frothed steamed milk
  • Words that mean the same thing: caffe latte
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LATTE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "42. One of eight in "The Twelve Days of Christmas""

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a female domestic
  • Words that mean the same thing: amah, maidservant, housemaid
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MAID

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "44. With 21-Across, straight up"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that proper alignment; the property possessed by something that is in correct or proper alignment
  • Words that mean the same thing: admittedly, honest, true up
  • The opposite would be: untruthful, false
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TRUE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "45. 2017 double-platinum debut album for SZA"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard clue about music.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CTRL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "46. "Shucks!""

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a easy clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HECK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "47. Raw materials"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a mineral that contains metal that is valuable enough to be mined
  • Words that mean the same thing: ore
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ORES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "49. Govt. org. whose director serves a 10-year term"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a medium clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a federal law enforcement agency that is the principal investigative arm of the department of justice
  • Words that mean the same thing: Federal Bureau of Investigation
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FBI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "50. "How now?," to a cow?"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a hard clue about short answer.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the sound made by a cow or bull
  • Words that mean the same thing: low
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MOO

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 51 72.9%
Short Answer 9 12.9%
Celebrity/Entertainment 4 5.7%
Sports 2 2.9%
Movies/Film 1 1.4%
Abbreviation 1 1.4%
Geography 1 1.4%
Music 1 1.4%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 35
Down Clues 35
Total Clues 70
Average Answer Length 5.5 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 12 letters

Fun Tips to Solve Crossword Puzzles!

  • Start with short words first - they're usually easier!
  • Look for clues with blanks to fill in - these are like fill-in-the-blank questions at school
  • When letters cross, they must be the same in both words - this helps you check if you're right!
  • Today is Friday, and these puzzles are usually moderate level
  • Most clues today are about general knowledge
  • The average word today has about 5 letters
  • Remember: It's okay to take breaks and come back later with fresh eyes!
  • Ask someone for help if you need it - crosswords are more fun with friends!

Explore more crossword solutions and helpful guides to improve your solving skills:

Disclaimer: Crossword clues are property of The New York Times. This educational content is designed to help puzzle enthusiasts improve their solving skills.

Last Updated: September 17, 2025 at 02:42 PM