Complete Solutions for NYT Mini Trivia Week 3 September 18, 2026

NYT Mini Crossword Trivia Week 3 September 18, 2026 - Daily Answers

Today's Mini has 20 clues to get through. Hints and answers for all of them are below.

Popular Puzzles: July 23 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | February 10 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | Xwordhint Crossword Answers October 20 |

Jump To Section

• Puzzle Information
• Grid Layout
• Across Clues (10 total)
• Down Clues (10 total)
• How to Solve Faster
• Common Questions

About Today's Puzzle

NYT Mini Crossword Grid - Friday, September 18, 2026

Puzzle Statistics

Detail	Information
Date	September 18, 2026
Grid Size	5 x 5 squares
Total Clues	20 clues
Across Clues	10 clues
Down Clues	10 clues
Average Solve Time	Under 1 minute

Today's Trivia Week 3 NYT Mini Crossword Grid Layout

Today's layout is the usual 5x5: five columns, five rows.

5x5 Crossword Grid Pattern

	Column 1	Column 2	Column 3	Column 4	Column 5
Row 1
Row 2
Row 3
Row 4
Row 5

How to Solve This One Fast

1. Skim every clue once before you write anything — your brain keeps chewing on the ones you don't solve right away.
2. Knock out the short answers (3 letters or under) first.
3. Lean on the crossing letters once a couple of words are in.
4. A question mark in a clue usually means there's a pun coming.
5. THE, AND, ARE, FOR, NOT — these little words show up constantly, keep them in your back pocket.

Quick Facts

• Squares in the grid: 25
• How long it takes: usually under a minute once you're warmed up
• Best moment for it: any short break
• Overall difficulty: easy-going by design

Across Clues - 10 Total

These run left to right across the grid.

Across Clues List

Number	Clue
1 Across	44. Cookie contents
2 Across	24. Yell sharply
3 Across	42. Common plant for a "plant mom"
4 Across	17. Breaks off
5 Across	14. Figuratively speaking
6 Across	30. Defensive effort in the red zone
7 Across	1. Server's warning at a restaurant
8 Across	49. Some features of backyard landscaping
9 Across	36. Org. concerned with traffic
10 Across	23. Contents of some pockets

Hints and Answers for Across Clues

Stuck on one? Hints and answers for each clue are below. A few other guides worth a look:

• January 04 2021 NYT Clues Solutions
• Mini Crossword NYT October 09 2025
• December 29 2020 NYT Clues Solutions

---

1 Across: "44. Cookie contents"

Hints:

• It's a 4-letter word.
• Starts with 'D', ends with 'A'.
• 'datum' points in the same direction.

Answer:

Click to reveal

DATA

---

2 Across: "24. Yell sharply"

Hints:

• This one runs 4 letters long.
• Starts with 'B', ends with 'K'.
• Short form / acronym territory here.

Answer:

Click to reveal

BARK

---

3 Across: "42. Common plant for a "plant mom""

Hints:

• This one runs 4 letters long.
• Short form / acronym territory here.
• Kicks off with 'F' and wraps up with 'N'.

Answer:

Click to reveal

FERN

---

4 Across: "17. Breaks off"

Hints:

• Think of it this way — either extremity of something that has length.
• Starts with 'E', ends with 'S'.
• You're looking for 4 letters.

Answer:

Click to reveal

ENDS

---

5 Across: "14. Figuratively speaking"

Hints:

• Count on 7 letters here.
• First letter's a 'S', last letter's a 'Y'.
• Pattern-wise it looks like: S_____Y

Answer:

Click to reveal

SOTOSAY

---

6 Across: "30. Defensive effort in the red zone"

Hints:

• First letter's a 'G', last letter's a 'D'.
• Pattern-wise it looks like: G___________D
• Count on 13 letters here.

Answer:

Click to reveal

GOALLINESTAND

---

7 Across: "1. Server's warning at a restaurant"

Hints:

• Starts with 'I', ends with 'T'.
• You're looking for 6 letters.

Answer:

Click to reveal

ITSHOT

---

8 Across: "49. Some features of backyard landscaping"

Hints:

• Pattern-wise it looks like: G_____S
• Starts with 'G', ends with 'S'.
• Basically, a small roofed building affording shade and rest.

Answer:

Click to reveal

GAZEBOS

---

9 Across: "36. Org. concerned with traffic"

Hints:

• Short form / acronym territory here.
• First letter's a 'F', last letter's a 'A'.
• It's a 3-letter word.

Answer:

Click to reveal

FAA

---

10 Across: "23. Contents of some pockets"

Hints:

• It's a 3-letter word.
• First letter's a 'A', last letter's a 'R'.
• This is more of an abbreviation than a regular word.

Answer:

Click to reveal

AIR

Down Clues - 10 Total

These run top to bottom in the grid.

Down Clues List

Number	Clue
1 Down	10. Seize
2 Down	7. "&" follower, in some business names
3 Down	5. ___ of Solomon, literary collection written in the first or second century
4 Down	27. Clicked with a partner?
5 Down	16. Simple cocktail named for two brands
6 Down	3. Potential outcomes
7 Down	48. Lead-in to "lab" in the name of an S&P 500 company
8 Down	4. Mass
9 Down	28. Snicker
10 Down	21. Bit of nonsense writing that typically gets a laugh

Hints and Answers for Down Clues

Same deal here — hints then answers. You might also like:

• December 29 2020 NYT Clues Solutions
• January 07 2020 NYT Clues Solutions
• January 04 2021 NYT Clues Solutions

---

1 Down: "10. Seize"

Hints:

• First letter's a 'U', last letter's a 'P'.
• This one runs 5 letters long.
• 'seize' points in the same direction.

Answer:

Click to reveal

USURP

---

2 Down: "7. "&" follower, in some business names"

Hints:

• Think of it this way — a male human offspring.
• Close enough in meaning: Logos.
• Starts with 'S', ends with 'S'.

Answer:

Click to reveal

SONS

---

3 Down: "5. ___ of Solomon, literary collection written in the first or second century"

Hints:

• 'ode' points in the same direction.
• Count on 4 letters here.
• If that helps, the shape is: O__S

Answer:

Click to reveal

ODES

---

4 Down: "27. Clicked with a partner?"

Hints:

• You could also think of it as "tap."
• First letter's a 'T', last letter's a 'D'.
• It's a 9-letter word.

Answer:

Click to reveal

TAPDANCED

---

5 Down: "16. Simple cocktail named for two brands"

Hints:

• If that helps, the shape is: J_________E
• It's a 11-letter word.
• First letter's a 'J', last letter's a 'E'.

Answer:

Click to reveal

JACKANDCOKE

---

6 Down: "3. Potential outcomes"

Hints:

• Starts with 'S', ends with 'S'.
• Basically, an outline or synopsis of a play (or.
• You're looking for 9 letters.

Answer:

Click to reveal

SCENARIOS

---

7 Down: "48. Lead-in to "lab" in the name of an S&P 500 company"

Hints:

• First letter's a 'E', last letter's a 'O'.
• This is more of an abbreviation than a regular word.
• It's a 3-letter word.

Answer:

Click to reveal

ECO

---

8 Down: "4. Mass"

Hints:

• Basically, a vast multitude.
• Count on 5 letters here.
• You could also think of it as "drove."

Answer:

Click to reveal

HORDE

---

9 Down: "28. Snicker"

Hints:

• Blank it out and you get: T____E
• It's a 6-letter word.
• First letter's a 'T', last letter's a 'E'.

Answer:

Click to reveal

TEEHEE

---

10 Down: "21. Bit of nonsense writing that typically gets a laugh"

Hints:

• This one runs 6 letters long.
• Pattern-wise it looks like: M____B
• Kicks off with 'M' and wraps up with 'B'.

Answer:

Click to reveal

MADLIB

How to Solve the NYT Mini Crossword Faster

Here's what tends to work if you solve these regularly:

Step-by-Step Strategy

1. Scan before you solve: One quick read-through of all the clues before you commit to anything usually pays off.
2. Short words first: The 2-3 letter answers are almost always the low-hanging fruit.
3. Let crossings guide you: Harder answers get much easier once a couple of crossing letters are locked in.
4. Puns hide behind question marks: If a clue ends in "?", expect wordplay, not a straight answer.
5. A few words repeat a lot: ERA, ORE, ATE, ICE show up more than you'd expect — keep them in mind.

Letter Tips That Really Help

• E is the most common letter in English, so it's worth guessing early.
• Words ending in S are usually plurals.
• Blanks ("___") in a clue mean the answer fits exactly into those spaces.
• An abbreviation in the clue is a signal the answer's abbreviated too.

Time Goals to Aim For

Your Time	Skill Level	What It Means
Under 30 seconds	Expert	You've clearly got the puzzle's patterns down.
30-60 seconds	Advanced	Solid pace — you're solving quickly.
1-2 minutes	Good	Right where most regular solvers land.
Over 2 minutes	Learning	Totally fine — speed comes with reps.

Puzzle Numbers and Facts

Today's Puzzle by the Numbers

Total Clues:	20
Grid Size:	5 boxes across, 5 boxes down
Total Squares:	25
Average Time:	1 minute 10 seconds
Difficulty:	Easy

More Puzzle Help

If today's Mini hit the spot, here are a few more you might enjoy:

• January 07 2020 NYT Clues Solutions
• January 04 2021 NYT Clues Solutions
• February 10 2020 NYT Clues Solutions
• July 15 2020 NYT Clues Solutions
• July 07 2021 NYT Clues Solutions
• Mini Crossword NYT October 09 2025

Common Questions About Trivia Week 3

When does the Trivia Week 3 Mini go live?

Typically drops the evening before, around 10 PM ET.

How long should Trivia Week 3 take me?

Anywhere from 30 seconds to a couple of minutes is typical. Don't stress if you're on the slower end at first.

Is Trivia Week 3 free to play?

It's free to play, unlike the main NYT Crossword which sits behind a paywall.

What actually makes someone good at Trivia Week 3?

It mostly comes down to recognizing common short answers and catching puns fast. The rest is just reps.

Does Trivia Week 3 get harder as the week goes on?

It varies day to day — Saturdays tend to be the toughest, Mondays the easiest.

---

About This Page: We put together hints and answers for the NYT Mini to help you learn the ropes and get faster over time. This site isn't affiliated with The New York Times.

Last Updated: September 18, 2026 at 08:22 AM

Search terms: NYT Mini Trivia Week, Trivia Week {week_num}, Mini crossword Trivia Week, Trivia Week answers, NYT Trivia Week, September 18 2026 mini crossword

XWordHint Crossword Answers September 18, 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
• Across Clues Table (33 clues)
• Across Clues - Detailed Hints
• Down Clues Table (35 clues)
• Down Clues - Detailed Hints
• Expert Solving Strategies
• Today's Puzzle Statistics

Today's Puzzle Difficulty: Medium

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. Server's warning at a restaurant	6
2A	7. Moved along (to)	6
3A	13. Modern tech aid whose design was inspired by a Go board	6
4A	14. Figuratively speaking	7
5A	15. Begin to boil	6
6A	16. Insects named for when they emerge	8
7A	17. Breaks off	4
8A	18. Water containers	4
9A	19. Dinosaur in Pixar's "The Good Dinosaur"	4
10A	20. Four-time N.B.A. All-Star Young	4
11A	21. Line at an Apple Store	4
12A	22. Permanent, perhaps	5
13A	23. Contents of some pockets	3
14A	24. Yell sharply	4
15A	25. Org. whose events are typically held at clubs	3
16A	26. Country club?	13
17A	30. Defensive effort in the red zone	13
18A	32. Not everyone agrees on this	13
19A	34. Ball girl	3
20A	35. "Big Brother" host Julie	4
21A	36. Org. concerned with traffic	3
22A	37. Ones catching rays, perhaps?	5
23A	40. Two in a row?	4
24A	41. Places to buy buckets, familiarly	4
25A	42. Common plant for a "plant mom"	4
26A	43. Long-bodied fish	4
27A	44. Cookie contents	4
28A	45. Not together, in a way	8
29A	47. "Is that a challenge?!"	6
30A	49. Some features of backyard landscaping	7
31A	50. "I'll be right with you"	6
32A	51. Gave the once-over	6
33A	52. "Don't believe me? Just watch!"	6

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Server's warning at a restaurant"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ITSHOT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "7. Moved along (to)"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that proceed without interruption; in music or talk
• Similar words include: segue
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SEGUED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "13. Modern tech aid whose design was inspired by a Go board"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: QRCODE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "14. Figuratively speaking"

7 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SOTOSAY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "15. Begin to boil"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SEERED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "16. Insects named for when they emerge"

8 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: JUNEBUGS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "17. Breaks off"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that either extremity of something that has length
• Similar words include: terminate, death, stop
• Opposite of: beginning, begin

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ENDS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "18. Water containers"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a barrier constructed to contain the flow of water or to keep out the sea
• Similar words include: dyke, dekametre, decametre
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DAMS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "19. Dinosaur in Pixar's "The Good Dinosaur""

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ARLO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "20. Four-time N.B.A. All-Star Young"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TRAE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "21. Line at an Apple Store"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a waterproof raincoat made of rubberized fabric
• Similar words include: mackintosh, mac, macintosh
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MACS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "22. Permanent, perhaps"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: INPEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "23. Contents of some pockets"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a mixture of gases (especially oxygen) required for breathing; the stuff that the wind consists of
• Similar words include: aura, tune, strain
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AIR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "24. Yell sharply"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that tough protective covering of the woody stems and roots of trees and other woody plants
• Similar words include: barque, skin
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: BARK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "25. Org. whose events are typically held at clubs"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: PGA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "26. Country club?"

13 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: UNITEDNATIONS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "30. Defensive effort in the red zone"

13 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: GOALLINESTAND

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "32. Not everyone agrees on this"

13 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SPLITDECISION

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "34. Ball girl"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a young woman making her debut into society
• Similar words include: debutante
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DEB

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "35. "Big Brother" host Julie"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that wild goose having white adult plumage
• Similar words include: subgenus Chen
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CHEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "36. Org. concerned with traffic"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an agency in the department of transportation that is responsible for the safety of civilian aviation
• Similar words include: Federal Aviation Agency
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: FAA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "37. Ones catching rays, perhaps?"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that predatory black-and-white toothed whale with large dorsal fin; common in cold seas
• Similar words include: killer whale, killer, Orcinus orca
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ORCAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "40. Two in a row?"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an armed adversary (especially a member of an opposing military force)
• Similar words include: foeman, opposition, enemy
• Opposite of: friend

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: FOES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "41. Places to buy buckets, familiarly"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: KFCS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "42. Common plant for a "plant mom""

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that any of numerous flowerless and seedless vascular plants having true roots from a rhizome and fronds that uncurl upward; reproduce by spores
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: FERN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "43. Long-bodied fish"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a broad highway designed for high-speed traffic
• Similar words include: expressway, throughway, motorway
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: PIKE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "44. Cookie contents"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a collection of facts from which conclusions may be drawn
• Similar words include: datum, information, data point
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DATA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "45. Not together, in a way"

8 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ALACARTE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "47. "Is that a challenge?!""

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DAREME

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "49. Some features of backyard landscaping"

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a small roofed building affording shade and rest
• Similar words include: summerhouse, gazebo
• Pattern: _______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: GAZEBOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "50. "I'll be right with you""

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ONESEC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "51. Gave the once-over"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EYEDUP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "52. "Don't believe me? Just watch!""

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CANTOO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No.	Clue	Letters
1D	1. Brightness measures, in brief	3
2D	2. Element of a dating profile?	8
3D	3. Potential outcomes	9
4D	4. Mass	5
5D	5. ___ of Solomon, literary collection written in the first or second century	4
6D	6. Sci-fi writer Chiang	3
7D	7. "&" follower, in some business names	4
8D	8. When much rainy weather occurs in Côte d'Ivoire	3
9D	9. Flip	9
10D	10. Seize	5
11D	11. High-ranking scout	5
12D	12. Company whose products suck	5
13D	14. Additional schoolwork?	4
14D	16. Simple cocktail named for two brands	11
15D	18. "Phooey!"	6
16D	20. Torque symbol, in physics	3
17D	21. Bit of nonsense writing that typically gets a laugh	6
18D	22. Delighted cry upon receiving an acceptance	6
19D	24. Ball girls	6
20D	25. Leap day baby, e.g.	6
21D	27. Clicked with a partner?	9
22D	28. Snicker	6
23D	29. Simple check for freshness	9
24D	31. Act like yourself, perhaps?	8
25D	33. Nasty ___ (noted rap moniker)	3
26D	37. Not in the minority?	5
27D	38. It often has four legs	5
28D	39. Fidget spinners or Angry Birds, once	5
29D	40. Give ___ (cause consternation in)	4
30D	41. Character played by Rashida Jones on "The Office"	5
31D	43. Set piece	4
32D	44. Longtime U.F.C. C.E.O. ___ White	4
33D	46. Aladdin's sidekick	3
34D	47. Many a nonfiction Oscar nominee, informally	3
35D	48. Lead-in to "lab" in the name of an S&P 500 company	3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Brightness measures, in brief"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a measure of a person's intelligence as indicated by an intelligence test; the ratio of a person's mental age to their chronological age (multiplied by 100)
• Similar words include: IQ, intelligence quotient, I.Q.
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: IQS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Element of a dating profile?"

8 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TREERING

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Potential outcomes"

9 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an outline or synopsis of a play (or, by extension, of a literary work)
• Similar words include: scenario
• Pattern: _________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SCENARIOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Mass"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a vast multitude
• Similar words include: drove, legion, swarm
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: HORDE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. ___ of Solomon, literary collection written in the first or second century"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a lyric poem with complex stanza forms
• Similar words include: ode
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ODES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Sci-fi writer Chiang"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a tough youth of 1950's and 1960's wearing edwardian style clothes
• Similar words include: Teddy boy
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. "&" follower, in some business names"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a male human offspring
• Similar words include: boy, Son, Logos
• Opposite of: girl, daughter

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SONS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. When much rainy weather occurs in Côte d'Ivoire"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ETE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Flip"

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: GOBANANAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Seize"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that seize and take control without authority and possibly with force; take as one's right or possession
• Similar words include: seize, arrogate, assume
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: USURP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. High-ranking scout"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that any of various large keen-sighted diurnal birds of prey noted for their broad wings and strong soaring flight
• Similar words include: double birdie, bird of Jove
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EAGLE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Company whose products suck"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DYSON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "14. Additional schoolwork?"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a quantity of money
• Similar words include: join, summarize, marrow
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SUMS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "16. Simple cocktail named for two brands"

11 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: JACKANDCOKE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "18. "Phooey!""

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DARNIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "20. Torque symbol, in physics"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the 19th letter of the greek alphabet
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TAU

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "21. Bit of nonsense writing that typically gets a laugh"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MADLIB

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "22. Delighted cry upon receiving an acceptance"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: IGOTIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "24. Ball girls"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a young woman who is the most charming and beautiful of several rivals
• Similar words include: bell, belle
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: BELLES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "25. Leap day baby, e.g."

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the twelfth sign of the zodiac; the sun is in this sign from about february 19 to march 20
• Similar words include: Fish, Pisces the Fishes
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: PISCES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "27. Clicked with a partner?"

9 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that dance and make rhythmic clicking sounds by means of metal plates nailed to the sole of the dance shoes
• Similar words include: tap, tapdance
• Pattern: _________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TAPDANCED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "28. Snicker"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TEEHEE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "29. Simple check for freshness"

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SNIFFTEST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "31. Act like yourself, perhaps?"

8 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DOACAMEO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "33. Nasty ___ (noted rap moniker)"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a silvery soft waxy metallic element of the alkali metal group; occurs abundantly in natural compounds (especially in salt water); burns with a yellow flame and reacts violently in water; occurs in sea water and in the mineral halite (rock salt)
• Similar words include: atomic number 11, Na, sodium
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: NAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "37. Not in the minority?"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OFAGE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "38. It often has four legs"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the act of passing something along from one person or group to another
• Similar words include: electrical relay, relay race
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: RELAY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "39. Fidget spinners or Angry Birds, once"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an interest followed with exaggerated zeal
• Similar words include: madden, cult, hysteria
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CRAZE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "40. Give ___ (cause consternation in)"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a display of bad temper
• Similar words include: burst, paroxysm, conform to
• Opposite of: disagree

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: FITS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "41. Character played by Rashida Jones on "The Office""

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the tibeto-burman language spoken in the thailand and burmese borderlands
• Similar words include: Karenic
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: KAREN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "43. Set piece"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a support placed beneath or against something to keep it from shaking or falling
• Similar words include: airplane propeller, shore up, shore
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: PROP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "44. Longtime U.F.C. C.E.O. ___ White"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that celtic goddess who was the mother of the tuatha de danann; identified with the welsh don
• Similar words include: Danu
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DANA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "46. Aladdin's sidekick"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ABU

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "47. Many a nonfiction Oscar nominee, informally"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a licensed medical practitioner
• Similar words include: doctor, Commerce, MD
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DOC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "48. Lead-in to "lab" in the name of an S&P 500 company"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ECO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Expert Solving Strategies

Start Smart

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

Decode the Clues

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

Use Cross-References

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

Build Vocabulary

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

Today's Puzzle Stats

33 Across Clues

35 Down Clues

68 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.

• Complete NYT Crossword Archive
• Advanced Solving Techniques
• Common Crossword Words

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 18, 2026 at 08:22 AM

XWordHint Crossword Answers September 13, 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
• Across Clues Table (80 clues)
• Across Clues - Detailed Hints
• Down Clues Table (80 clues)
• Down Clues - Detailed Hints
• Expert Solving Strategies
• Today's Puzzle Statistics

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. Less injurious	5
2A	6. Showed some real malice toward	6
3A	12. Mideast currency	5
4A	17. Landscaper's timesaver	3
5A	20. "Well, how about that?!"	5
6A	21. Practice taught in a dojo	6
7A	22. Combined	5
8A	23. Computer's "brain," in brief	3
9A	24. Certain group of orchestral winds	12
10A	26. Large insect named from Greek myth	9
11A	28. Yank	3
12A	29. Hook for a newspaper article	4
13A	30. Forerunners of CDs	3
14A	31. New start?	3
15A	32. Nautical lever	3
16A	33. "De dónde ___ tú?" ("Where are you from?": Sp.)	4
17A	35. Rope in	5
18A	37. Mechanic's offering	10
19A	41. Told, as a story	7
20A	43. Special offer	5
21A	46. Turn from solid to liquid	4
22A	47. Diamond, e.g.	3
23A	48. Santa Fe automaker	7
24A	50. Two of them make up a diameter	5
25A	52. Chilling	6
26A	54. Frat ___	3
27A	56. Sharp nail	5
28A	57. Group project on a winter's day, perhaps	12
29A	59. What snobby people put on	4
30A	61. ___ Simmons, founding member of Kiss	4
31A	62. Missouri airport code	3
32A	63. Highly anomalous	5
33A	64. Distraction-limiting lifestyle trend	8
34A	66. [24-Across]	4
35A	70. Rake in	4
36A	72. Enthusiastic response to "Who's ready?"	3
37A	73. [37-Across]	4
38A	74. Celebration between Xmas and M.L.K. Day	3
39A	75. Classic Dalmatian name	4
40A	79. "Am I invisible or what?!"	8
41A	84. [41-Across]	4
42A	85. Airport screening org.	3
43A	86. Another name for Vishnu, translating to "the remover"	4
44A	87. Broadway's "Dear ___ Hansen"	4
45A	88. Mellow, in a way	3
46A	89. [57-Across]	4
47A	90. Prompts to play, while conducting	6
48A	92. Largest zodiac constellation	5
49A	94. Privacy doc	3
50A	96. Material in reusable diapers	5
51A	99. Rihanna song with the lyric "Please, someone help me"	3
52A	100. Tonsil doc	3
53A	101. Baby fox	3
54A	103. Pioneering premium channel	3
55A	106. Pole, e.g.	4
56A	107. Advantageous	5
57A	109. Qualm	11
58A	112. Plot feature of "Planet of the Apes"	10
59A	114. Casals who popularized Bach's cello suites	5
60A	115. Suitable	11
61A	117. Source of the word "tuk-tuk" used for a motorized rickshaw	4
62A	120. Crumb carriers	4
63A	122. "What ___ we doing?"	3
64A	123. Took a load off	3
65A	124. Cousins of cobras	4
66A	127. "Good job!"	7
67A	129. Absorbent	6
68A	132. Cell network letters	3
69A	134. Co-Stooge of Larry	3
70A	135. Reply to "Nuh-uh!"	5
71A	136. 1990s exercise fad	5
72A	138. Descended with rappelling ropes	10
73A	141. Step forcefully	5
74A	142. Alternative to a username when logging in	5
75A	143. 1,000,000,000 years	3
76A	144. Stank	6
77A	145. Builds muscle	5
78A	146. Period of letting loose	5
79A	147. Abbr. after some business names	3
80A	148. Looks of contempt	6

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Less injurious"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that free from danger or the risk of harm
• Similar words include: secure, good, dependable
• Opposite of: out, dangerous

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SAFER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "6. Showed some real malice toward"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SPATAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "12. Mideast currency"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that 100 dinars equal 1 rial in iran
• Similar words include: Jordanian dinar, Iranian dinar, Iraqi dinar
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DINAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "17. Landscaper's timesaver"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that surface layer of ground containing a mat of grass and grass roots
• Similar words include: turf, sward, greensward
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SOD

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "20. "Well, how about that?!""

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ILLBE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "21. Practice taught in a dojo"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a traditional japanese system of unarmed combat; sharp blows and kicks are given to pressure-sensitive points on the body of the opponent
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: KARATE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "22. Combined"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: INONE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "23. Computer's "brain," in brief"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that (computer science) the part of a computer (a microprocessor chip) that does most of the data processing
• Similar words include: central processor, central processing unit, processor
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CPU

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "24. Certain group of orchestral winds"

12 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: FLUTESECTION

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "26. Large insect named from Greek myth"

9 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ATLASMOTH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "28. Yank"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a sudden abrupt pull
• Similar words include: towboat, drive, tugboat
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TUG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "29. Hook for a newspaper article"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the introductory section of a story
• Similar words include: lead-in, lead
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LEDE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "30. Forerunners of CDs"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a long-playing phonograph record; designed to be played at 33.3 rpm
• Similar words include: LP, L-P
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "31. New start?"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that (used as a combining form) recent or new
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: NEO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "32. Nautical lever"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an implement used to propel or steer a boat
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "33. "De dónde ___ tú?" ("Where are you from?": Sp.)"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ERES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "35. Rope in"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that belgian composer (1532-1594)
• Similar words include: reata, lariat, Roland de Lassus
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LASSO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "37. Mechanic's offering"

10 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: __________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CARSERVICE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "41. Told, as a story"

7 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that make a logical or causal connection
• Similar words include: associate, come to, relate
• Opposite of: dissociate, unrelated

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: RELATED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "43. Special offer"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: PROMO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "46. Turn from solid to liquid"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the process whereby heat changes something from a solid to a liquid
• Similar words include: melt down, mellow, thaw
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MELT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "47. Diamond, e.g."

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that art highly prized for its beauty or perfection
• Similar words include: stone, muffin, treasure
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: GEM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "48. Santa Fe automaker"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: HYUNDAI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "50. Two of them make up a diameter"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the length of a line segment between the center and circumference of a circle or sphere
• Similar words include: spoke, radius, wheel spoke
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: RADII

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "52. Chilling"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ATEASE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "54. Frat ___"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: BRO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "56. Sharp nail"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a sharp hooked claw especially on a bird of prey
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TALON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "57. Group project on a winter's day, perhaps"

12 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: GIANTSNOWMAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "59. What snobby people put on"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that affected manners intended to impress others
• Similar words include: zephyr, broadcast, air out
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AIRS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "61. ___ Simmons, founding member of Kiss"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of 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
• Similar words include: factor, cistron
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: GENE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "62. Missouri airport code"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: STL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "63. Highly anomalous"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that fate personified; any one of the three weird sisters
• Similar words include: Wyrd, unearthly, uncanny
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: WEIRD

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "64. Distraction-limiting lifestyle trend"

8 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MONKMODE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "66. [24-Across]"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that (linguistics) the form of a word after all affixes are removed
• Similar words include: fore, halt, stem turn
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: STEM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "70. Rake in"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that earn on some commercial or business transaction; earn as salary or wages
• Similar words include: take in, garner, clear
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EARN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36A: "72. Enthusiastic response to "Who's ready?""

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: IAM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37A: "73. [37-Across]"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a car driven by a person whose job is to take passengers where they want to go in exchange for money
• Similar words include: taxicab, cab, hack
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TAXI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

38A: "74. Celebration between Xmas and M.L.K. Day"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: NYE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

39A: "75. Classic Dalmatian name"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a point located with respect to surface features of some region
• Similar words include: position, blot, recognize
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SPOT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

40A: "79. "Am I invisible or what?!""

8 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: NOTICEME

Remember this word for future puzzles!

41A: "84. [41-Across]"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that similar in quality or character
• Similar words include: consanguineal, kindred, kin
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AKIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

42A: "85. Airport screening org."

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an agency established in 2001 to safeguard united states transportation systems and insure safe air travel
• Similar words include: Transportation Security Administration
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TSA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

43A: "86. Another name for Vishnu, translating to "the remover""

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: HARI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

44A: "87. Broadway's "Dear ___ Hansen""

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EVAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

45A: "88. Mellow, in a way"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that school of mahayana buddhism asserting that enlightenment can come through meditation and intuition rather than faith; china and japan
• Similar words include: Lucy in the sky with diamonds, Zen Buddhism, Elvis
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ZEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

46A: "89. [57-Across]"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a large hairy humanoid creature said to live in the himalayas
• Similar words include: abominable snowman
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: YETI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

47A: "90. Prompts to play, while conducting"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CUESIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

48A: "92. Largest zodiac constellation"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that (astrology) a person who is born while the sun is in virgo
• Similar words include: Virgo the Virgin, Virgin
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: VIRGO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

49A: "94. Privacy doc"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: NDA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

50A: "96. Material in reusable diapers"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that artifact made by weaving or felting or knitting or crocheting natural or synthetic fibers
• Similar words include: material, textile, fabric
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CLOTH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

51A: "99. Rihanna song with the lyric "Please, someone help me""

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an internationally recognized distress signal in radio code
• Similar words include: sol, so, soh
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

52A: "100. Tonsil doc"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ENT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

53A: "101. Baby fox"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a case for containing a set of articles
• Similar words include: outfit, kit up, kit out
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: KIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

54A: "103. Pioneering premium channel"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: HBO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

55A: "106. Pole, e.g."

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that any member of the people of eastern europe or asian russia who speak a slavonic language
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SLAV

Remember this word for future puzzles!

56A: "107. Advantageous"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that being of use or service
• Similar words include: useful
• Opposite of: useless

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: UTILE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

57A: "109. Qualm"

11 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a district that is reserved for particular purpose
• Similar words include: reserve, booking, mental reservation
• Pattern: ___________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: RESERVATION

Remember this word for future puzzles!

58A: "112. Plot feature of "Planet of the Apes""

10 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: __________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TIMETRAVEL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

59A: "114. Casals who popularized Bach's cello suites"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: PABLO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

60A: "115. Suitable"

11 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that give or assign a resource to a particular person or cause
• Similar words include: capture, seize, earmark
• Opposite of: inappropriate

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: APPROPRIATE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

61A: "117. Source of the word "tuk-tuk" used for a motorized rickshaw"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a native or inhabitant of thailand
• Similar words include: Siamese, Central Thai, Tai
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: THAI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

62A: "120. Crumb carriers"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that social insect living in organized colonies; characteristically the males and fertile queen have wings during breeding season; wingless sterile females are the workers
• Similar words include: ant, pismire, emmet
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ANTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

63A: "122. "What ___ we doing?""

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a unit of surface area equal to 100 square meters
• Similar words include: make up, comprise, constitute
• Opposite of: differ

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ARE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

64A: "123. Took a load off"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the seventh and last day of the week; observed as the sabbath by jews and some christians
• Similar words include: sit down, model, sit
• Opposite of: stand, arise

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

65A: "124. Cousins of cobras"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that of southern europe; similar to but smaller than the adder
• Similar words include: Naja haje, Vipera aspis, Egyptian cobra
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ASPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

66A: "127. "Good job!""

7 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: WAYTOGO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

67A: "129. Absorbent"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that able to absorb fluids
• Similar words include: holey, poriferous
• Opposite of: nonporous

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: POROUS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

68A: "132. Cell network letters"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LTE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

69A: "134. Co-Stooge of Larry"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MOE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

70A: "135. Reply to "Nuh-uh!""

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ISTOO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

71A: "136. 1990s exercise fad"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TAEBO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

72A: "138. Descended with rappelling ropes"

10 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: __________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SCALEDDOWN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

73A: "141. Step forcefully"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a dance involving a rhythmical stamping step
• Similar words include: stump, stamp
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: STOMP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

74A: "142. Alternative to a username when logging in"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that (computer science) a system of world-wide electronic communication in which a computer user can compose a message at one terminal that can be regenerated at the recipient's terminal when the recipient logs in
• Similar words include: e-mail, netmail, electronic mail
• Opposite of: snail mail

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EMAIL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

75A: "143. 1,000,000,000 years"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the longest division of geological time
• Similar words include: aeon
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

76A: "144. Stank"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that have an element suggestive (of something)
• Similar words include: smell, reek, smack
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: REEKED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

77A: "145. Builds muscle"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the quality of a person's voice
• Similar words include: intone, tone of voice, tincture
• Opposite of: atonicity

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TONES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

78A: "146. Period of letting loose"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a brief indulgence of your impulses
• Similar words include: fling
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SPREE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

79A: "147. Abbr. after some business names"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LTD

Remember this word for future puzzles!

80A: "148. Looks of contempt"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a facial expression of contempt or scorn; the upper lip curls
• Similar words include: leer, sneer
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SNEERS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No.	Clue	Letters
1D	1. Flour de-clumper	6
2D	2. Intriguing appeal	6
3D	3. Cornet lookalike	10
4D	4. Food assistance syst.	3
5D	5. Easily recite, with "off"	4
6D	6. Scampered away	10
7D	7. Walks nervously, in a way	5
8D	8. Jazz drummer Blakey	3
9D	9. Customize (to)	6
10D	10. Over	4
11D	11. Stunners, so to speak	4
12D	12. William and Harry's mum	5
13D	13. Occasional	12
14D	14. Like choices that can't turn out that badly	6
15D	15. Japan's largest carrier	3
16D	16. Locale with many seasonal businesses	10
17D	17. Previously unseen sporting result (term coined in 2014)	9
18D	18. Pick, with "for"	3
19D	19. "That's obvious!"	3
20D	25. Mabel Mora's portrayer on "Only Murders in the Building"	11
21D	27. Dallas baller	3
22D	34. Use your words?	3
23D	36. Central support	5
24D	37. Concluding passage, in music	4
25D	38. Enthusiasm	4
26D	39. French film award	5
27D	40. Reword, perhaps	5
28D	42. Child king of Egypt	3
29D	44. URL ender for many nonprofits	3
30D	45. ___ tai	3
31D	49. Primo	4
32D	51. Hookups	3
33D	53. Isle of ___ (Scottish locale whose name sounds like an expression of endearment)	3
34D	54. Sound of impact	3
35D	55. Home of the Christ the Redeemer statue	3
36D	58. Brings the house down, like a comic	5
37D	60. Moving between the poles?	6
38D	65. Computer covered by AppleCare	3
39D	66. [109-Across]	4
40D	67. [115-Across]	4
41D	68. [127-Across]	4
42D	69. [138-Across]	4
43D	71. What acids do when mixed with bases	5
44D	75. ___-wolf	3
45D	76. Secondhand lung irritant	12
46D	77. Bird whose name comes from the Latin for "golden"	6
47D	78. Glittery holiday strands	6
48D	79. Not even once	5
49D	80. Sheeplike	5
50D	81. Pastries that can be very sweet, ironically	5
51D	82. Tucked-away observations	11
52D	83. Conclude	3
53D	91. Shipmate of Spock	5
54D	93. Pods in bhindi masala	4
55D	95. Yellowfin tuna	3
56D	96. Advertising award	4
57D	97. Home décor options	5
58D	98. As a whole	7
59D	102. Hookup during infusion therapy, in brief	5
60D	104. Mardi Gras accessory	3
61D	105. Released with conditions	8
62D	106. Topping for an apple crisp	8
63D	108. "Toodles!"	4
64D	110. Embodiment	7
65D	111. Young 'un	3
66D	113. Snickers	7
67D	116. Expert	3
68D	117. Soft-serve request	5
69D	118. Must	5
70D	119. Deandre ___, N.B.A. center who was picked first in the 2018 draft	5
71D	121. Weapon used by some chimpanzees	5
72D	125. Lead-in to grid or play	5
73D	126. Puts in the mail	5
74D	128. "My bad!"	4
75D	130. Off Broadway award	4
76D	131. ___-free	4
77D	133. Heaven on earth	4
78D	137. Boomer at a concert	3
79D	139. It's sometimes shortened to the letter "N"	3
80D	140. Dennis's sister on "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia"	3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Flour de-clumper"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a household sieve (as for flour)
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SIFTER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Intriguing appeal"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the power to entice or attract through personal charm
• Similar words include: temptingness, tempt, allurement
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ALLURE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Cornet lookalike"

10 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a brass instrument resembling a cornet but with a wider bore
• Similar words include: fluegelhorn
• Pattern: __________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: FLUGELHORN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Food assistance syst."

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EBT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Easily recite, with "off""

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a roll of photographic film holding a series of frames to be projected by a movie projector
• Similar words include: Scottish reel, gyrate, stagger
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: REEL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Scampered away"

10 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that run away, as if in a panic
• Similar words include: skedaddle
• Pattern: __________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SKEDADDLED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Walks nervously, in a way"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the rate of moving (especially walking or running)
• Similar words include: gait, yard, tempo
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: PACES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Jazz drummer Blakey"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the products of human creativity; works of art collectively
• Similar words include: artistic production, artwork, prowess
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ART

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Customize (to)"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a person whose occupation is making and altering garments
• Similar words include: sew, orient, sartor
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TAILOR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Over"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that on, to, or at the top
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ATOP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Stunners, so to speak"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the cardinal number that is the sum of nine and one; the base of the decimal system
• Similar words include: X, ten, ten-spot
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TENS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. William and Harry's mum"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that english aristocrat who was the first wife of prince charles; her death in an automobile accident in paris produced intense national mourning (1961-1997)
• Similar words include: Princess of Wales, Princess Diana, Lady Diana Frances Spencer
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DIANA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "13. Occasional"

12 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that stopping and starting at irregular intervals
• Pattern: ____________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: INTERMITTENT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "14. Like choices that can't turn out that badly"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: NOLOSE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "15. Japan's largest carrier"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that mother of the ancient irish gods; sometimes identified with danu
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ANA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "16. Locale with many seasonal businesses"

10 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: __________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: RESORTTOWN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "17. Previously unseen sporting result (term coined in 2014)"

9 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SCORIGAMI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "18. Pick, with "for""

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that select as an alternative over another
• Similar words include: prefer, choose
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OPT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "19. "That's obvious!""

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DUH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "25. Mabel Mora's portrayer on "Only Murders in the Building""

11 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SELENAGOMEZ

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "27. Dallas baller"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MAV

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "34. Use your words?"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the chance to speak
• Similar words include: tell, suppose, pronounce
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SAY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "36. Central support"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the series of vertebrae forming the axis of the skeleton and protecting the spinal cord
• Similar words include: sticker, prickle, spur
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SPINE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "37. Concluding passage, in music"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the closing section of a musical composition
• Similar words include: finale
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CODA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "38. Enthusiasm"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a feeling of strong eagerness (usually in favor of a person or cause)
• Similar words include: style, panache, ardor
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ELAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "39. French film award"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CESAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "40. Reword, perhaps"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that make improvements or corrections to
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EMEND

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "42. Child king of Egypt"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that utter `tsk,' `tut,' or `tut-tut,' as in disapproval
• Similar words include: tut-tut, tsk
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TUT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "44. URL ender for many nonprofits"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ORG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "45. ___ tai"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MAI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "49. Primo"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AONE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "51. Hookups"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an agency in the department of justice that enforces laws and regulations for the admission of foreign-born persons to the united states
• Similar words include: Immigration and Naturalization Service, Hoosier State, indium
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: INS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "53. Isle of ___ (Scottish locale whose name sounds like an expression of endearment)"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a member of a people living in southern benin and togo and southeastern ghana
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EWE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "54. Sound of impact"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an ancient city in southeastern iran; destroyed by an earthquake in 2003
• Similar words include: blast, clap, eruption
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: BAM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "55. Home of the Christ the Redeemer statue"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the former capital and 2nd largest city of brazil; chief brazilian port; famous as a tourist attraction
• Similar words include: Rio de Janeiro
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: RIO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "58. Brings the house down, like a comic"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that kill intentionally and with premeditation
• Similar words include: slay, off, dispatch
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SLAYS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37D: "60. Moving between the poles?"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a sport in which participants must travel on skis
• Similar words include: ski
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SKIING

Remember this word for future puzzles!

38D: "65. Computer covered by AppleCare"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a waterproof raincoat made of rubberized fabric
• Similar words include: mack, macintosh, mackintosh
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MAC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

39D: "66. [109-Across]"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that continuing or remaining in a place or state
• Similar words include: stick around, outride, last out
• Opposite of: change, move

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: STAY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

40D: "67. [115-Across]"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the income or profit arising from such transactions as the sale of land or other property
• Similar words include: get, require, acquire
• Opposite of: give, abstain

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TAKE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

41D: "68. [127-Across]"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an opening that permits escape or release
• Similar words include: pass away, pop off, get out
• Opposite of: be born, enter

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EXIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

42D: "69. [138-Across]"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a very short skirt
• Similar words include: miniskirt
• Opposite of: midi

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MINI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

43D: "71. What acids do when mixed with bases"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that show a response or a reaction to something
• Similar words include: oppose, respond
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: REACT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

44D: "75. ___-wolf"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SHE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

45D: "76. Secondhand lung irritant"

12 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: PASSIVESMOKE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

46D: "77. Bird whose name comes from the Latin for "golden""

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that mostly tropical songbird; the male is usually bright orange and black
• Similar words include: American oriole, New World oriole, Old World oriole
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ORIOLE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

47D: "78. Glittery holiday strands"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a showy decoration that is basically valueless
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TINSEL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

48D: "79. Not even once"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that not ever; at no time in the past or future
• Similar words include: ne'er
• Opposite of: ever

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: NEVER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

49D: "80. Sheeplike"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that of or pertaining to or of the nature of or characteristic of a sheep or sheep
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OVINE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

50D: "81. Pastries that can be very sweet, ironically"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a woman who engages in sexual intercourse for money
• Similar words include: cyprian, cocotte, harlot
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TARTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

51D: "82. Tucked-away observations"

11 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MENTALNOTES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

52D: "83. Conclude"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that either extremity of something that has length
• Similar words include: ending, conclusion, terminal
• Opposite of: beginning, begin

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: END

Remember this word for future puzzles!

53D: "91. Shipmate of Spock"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: UHURA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

54D: "93. Pods in bhindi masala"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that long green edible beaked pods of the okra plant
• Similar words include: Hibiscus esculentus, lady's-finger, okra plant
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OKRA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

55D: "95. Yellowfin tuna"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AHI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

56D: "96. Advertising award"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that (greek mythology) the muse of history
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CLIO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

57D: "97. Home décor options"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an artificial source of visible illumination
• Similar words include: lamp
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LAMPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

58D: "98. As a whole"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that (usually plural) work clothing consisting of denim trousers (usually with a bib and shoulder straps)
• Similar words include: boilersuit, boilers suit
• Pattern: _______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OVERALL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

59D: "102. Hookup during infusion therapy, in brief"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: IVBAG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

60D: "104. Mardi Gras accessory"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a long thin fluffy scarf of feathers or fur
• Similar words include: feather boa
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: BOA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

61D: "105. Released with conditions"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ONPAROLE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

62D: "106. Topping for an apple crisp"

8 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that pastry with a topping of streusel
• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: STREUSEL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

63D: "108. "Toodles!""

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TATA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

64D: "110. Embodiment"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a standard or typical example
• Similar words include: prototype, image, paradigm
• Pattern: _______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EPITOME

Remember this word for future puzzles!

65D: "111. Young 'un"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a small amount (especially of a drink)
• Similar words include: tot up, add together, total
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TOT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

66D: "113. Snickers"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a nervous restrained laugh
• Similar words include: giggle, titter
• Pattern: _______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TITTERS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

67D: "116. Expert"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an athlete who plays for pay
• Similar words include: professional
• Opposite of: anti, con

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: PRO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

68D: "117. Soft-serve request"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an unforeseen development
• Similar words include: braid, squirm, distort
• Opposite of: untwist, unbend

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TWIST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

69D: "118. Must"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: HASTO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

70D: "119. Deandre ___, N.B.A. center who was picked first in the 2018 draft"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AYTON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

71D: "121. Weapon used by some chimpanzees"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a long pointed rod used as a tool or weapon
• Similar words include: gig, shaft, fishgig
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SPEAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

72D: "125. Lead-in to grid or play"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that possession of controlling influence
• Similar words include: mightiness, world power, king
• Opposite of: inability, powerlessness

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: POWER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

73D: "126. Puts in the mail"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that cause to go somewhere
• Similar words include: commit, charge, broadcast
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SENDS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

74D: "128. "My bad!""

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OOPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

75D: "130. Off Broadway award"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OBIE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

76D: "131. ___-free"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a native or inhabitant of scotland
• Similar words include: Scotchman, Scotsman
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SCOT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

77D: "133. Heaven on earth"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that any place of complete bliss and delight and peace
• Similar words include: nirvana, heaven, Shangri-la
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EDEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

78D: "137. Boomer at a concert"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the basic unit of electric current adopted under the systeme international d'unites
• Similar words include: ampere, adenylic acid, adenosine monophosphate
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AMP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

79D: "139. It's sometimes shortened to the letter "N""

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AND

Remember this word for future puzzles!

80D: "140. Dennis's sister on "It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia""

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: DEE

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

80 Across Clues

80 Down Clues

160 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.

• Complete NYT Crossword Archive
• Advanced Solving Techniques
• Common Crossword Words

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 13, 2026 at 08:25 AM