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Thursday, September 3, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers September 03, 2026 | Expert Breakdown & Tips

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

Quick Navigation - Table of Contents

Today's Puzzle Difficulty: Moderate

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

Across Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Things that have icons 4
2A 5. She's possessive 3
3A 8. Sales spiel 5
4A 13. She can speak more than 20 languages 4
5A 14. Lead-in to haw 3
6A 15. Followed 6
7A 17. Show with the classic episodes "The Puffy Shirt" and "The Little Kicks" 8
8A 19. Authorize 6
9A 20. Noodle 6
10A 21. On, in French 3
11A 23. Successes for sluggers, for short 4
12A 24. Like some pants or haircuts 7
13A 27. Big laugh 3
14A 28. What dogs do the most in the spring and fall 4
15A 32. School unit 9
16A 34. Reached a payment date 7
17A 36. "Please give this high priority!" 4
18A 37. Character with a famous opening line? 7
19A 38. Like an overtired toddler 5
20A 42. Twice-told tale? 5
21A 43. Sweetums or Baby Doll 7
22A 45. March Madness org. 4
23A 48. Open, as a bottle 7
24A 49. One might feature rivers and bluffs 9
25A 52. Hastens 4
26A 53. Apple purchase 3
27A 54. Comedian Jon 7
28A 56. Its motto is "Industry" 4
29A 58. Sorta 3
30A 59. Luxuriates outdoors, in a way 6
31A 64. Emergency alerts 6
32A 66. Complete fiasco, slangily 8
33A 68. Steak option 6
34A 69. Emmy-winning role for Tina Fey 3
35A 70. Up the ___ 4
36A 71. Words that might be seen on a docent's badge 5
37A 72. Letters found near some bars 3
38A 73. It might be paved with good intentions 4

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Things that have icons"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "5. She's possessive"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "8. Sales spiel"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "15. Followed"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

8 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "19. Authorize"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "20. Noodle"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "21. On, in French"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

7 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "27. Big laugh"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "32. School unit"

9 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "34. Reached a payment date"

7 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "38. Like an overtired toddler"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "43. Sweetums or Baby Doll"

7 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "45. March Madness org."

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

7 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

9 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "52. Hastens"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "53. Apple purchase"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "54. Comedian Jon"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "58. Sorta"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "64. Emergency alerts"

6 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "66. Complete fiasco, slangily"

8 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "68. Steak option"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "70. Up the ___"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

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

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Self-righteous type"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Confess, say"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Fish with fused fins"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Slavic title"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

9 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "16. Place to study"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "22. ___ Minor"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "25. Something a suspect enters"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "26. Sketches"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "28. Leave a mark"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "29. Hearty"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "30. Islamic "commander""

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "31. Show to be bogus"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "35. What choreologists study"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "44. Invigorate"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "46. Skilled performer"

7 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

9 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "53. Polyhymnia or Clio"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "57. "Tarnation!""

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37D: "60. Distantly"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

40D: "63. Skeleton, say"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

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

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

42D: "67. Orchestra setting"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Expert Solving Strategies

Start Smart

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

Decode the Clues

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

Use Cross-References

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

Build Vocabulary

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

Today's Puzzle Stats

38 Across Clues
42 Down Clues
80 Total Clues

More NYT Crossword Help

Looking for more puzzle solutions? Check out our comprehensive archive of NYT crossword hints and answers. We update daily with expert analysis and solving strategies.

Disclaimer: Crossword clues and grid © The New York Times. This site provides hints and educational content for puzzle enthusiasts. XWordHint is not affiliated with The New York Times.

Last updated: September 03, 2026 at 08:10 AM

Tuesday, January 13, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers January 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: Challenging

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. Fall behind 3
2A 4. Angle symbol, in geometry 5
3A 9. Indonesian getaway spot 4
4A 13. Ginger ___ 3
5A 14. Some fountain drinks 5
6A 15. Boardroom V.I.P. 4
7A 16. Checkmate in chess or gin in gin rummy 3
8A 17. "Heyo!" 5
9A 18. Congressional staffer 4
10A 19. Hospital worker tending to newborns 13
11A 22. Creature that moves at an average speed of 0.03 miles per hour 5
12A 23. Pendulum's path 3
13A 24. Awards for ad agencies 5
14A 28. Mystique 4
15A 31. Bar attraction with a saddle and horns 14
16A 36. 1985 mystery film with three different endings 4
17A 37. Buffoons 5
18A 38. Director DaCosta of "The Marvels" 3
19A 39. Key not found on a Mac 3
20A 40. ___ asada 5
21A 41. Kiss or Heart 4
22A 42. Segments of Earth's lithosphere 14
23A 45. Gritty film genre 4
24A 46. Suggest 5
25A 47. Classic British cars 3
26A 49. Concern for a singer or a salesman 5
27A 53. Iconic 1977 Queen hit ... or a hint to 19-, 31- and 42-Across 13
28A 58. Coffee, informally 4
29A 59. Birthplace of Marlon Brando and Warren Buffett 5
30A 60. Many a groan-inducing joke 3
31A 61. Egg-shaped 4
32A 62. "Caution: Wet ___" 5
33A 63. Antlered animal 3
34A 64. Cohort also known as "Zoomers" 4
35A 65. Climbs without a partner, e.g. 5
36A 66. Sponsored posts, e.g. 3

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Fall behind"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the act of slowing down or falling behind
  • Similar words include: jail, meanwhile, immure
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LAG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "4. Angle symbol, in geometry"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the 8th letter of the greek alphabet
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: THETA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "9. Indonesian getaway spot"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an island in indonesia to the east of java; striking volcanic scenery; culture is known for elaborate dances and rituals and for handicrafts
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BALI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "13. Ginger ___"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a general name for beer made with a top fermenting yeast; in some of the united states an ale is (by law) a brew of more than 4% alcohol by volume
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ALE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "14. Some fountain drinks"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that large genus of african trees bearing kola nuts
  • Similar words include: cola, Cola, genus Cola
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: COLAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "15. Boardroom V.I.P."

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the chief executive department of the united states government
  • Similar words include: White House
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EXEC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "16. Checkmate in chess or gin in gin rummy"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a victory (as in a race or other competition)
  • Similar words include: come through, advance, winnings
  • Opposite of: fail, lose
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: WIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "17. "Heyo!""

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a very loud utterance (like the sound of an animal)
  • Similar words include: bellowing, holloa, roar
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOLLA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "18. Congressional staffer"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an officer who acts as military assistant to a more senior officer
  • Similar words include: auxiliary, adjutant, aide-de-camp
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AIDE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "19. Hospital worker tending to newborns"

13 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NEONATALNURSE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "22. Creature that moves at an average speed of 0.03 miles per hour"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that freshwater or marine or terrestrial gastropod mollusk usually having an external enclosing spiral shell
  • Similar words include: escargot
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SNAIL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "23. Pendulum's path"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that electrical conduction through a gas in an applied electric field
  • Similar words include: curve, arch, spark
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ARC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "24. Awards for ad agencies"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (greek mythology) the muse of history
  • Similar words include: Clio
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CLIOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "28. Mystique"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a sensation (as of a cold breeze or bright light) that precedes the onset of certain disorders such as a migraine attack or epileptic seizure
  • Similar words include: nimbus, aureole, gloriole
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AURA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "31. Bar attraction with a saddle and horns"

14 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MECHANICALBULL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "36. 1985 mystery film with three different endings"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a slight indication
  • Similar words include: cue, clew, hint
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CLUE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "37. Buffoons"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a compact mass
  • Similar words include: oaf, gawk, chunk
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CLODS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "38. Director DaCosta of "The Marvels""

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "39. Key not found on a Mac"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that angular distance above the horizon (especially of a celestial object)
  • Similar words include: EL, altitude, elevation
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ALT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "40. ___ asada"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "41. Kiss or Heart"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an unofficial association of people or groups
  • Similar words include: dance orchestra, stria, stripe
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BAND

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "42. Segments of Earth's lithosphere"

14 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TECTONICPLATES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "45. Gritty film genre"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "46. Suggest"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "47. Classic British cars"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that one thousandth (1/1,000) gram
  • Similar words include: atomic number 12, magnesium, milligram
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MGS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "49. Concern for a singer or a salesman"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "53. Iconic 1977 Queen hit ... or a hint to 19-, 31- and 42-Across"

13 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: WEWILLROCKYOU

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "58. Coffee, informally"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an island in indonesia to the south of borneo; one of the world's most densely populated regions
  • Similar words include: coffee
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: JAVA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "59. Birthplace of Marlon Brando and Warren Buffett"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a member of the siouan people formerly living in the missouri river valley in northeastern nebraska
  • Similar words include: Maha
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OMAHA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "60. Many a groan-inducing joke"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a humorous play on words
  • Similar words include: punning, paronomasia, wordplay
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PUN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "61. Egg-shaped"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a closed plane curve resulting from the intersection of a circular cone and a plane cutting completely through it
  • Similar words include: elliptic, ellipse, ovoid
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OVAL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "62. "Caution: Wet ___""

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a substance used as a coating to protect or decorate a surface (especially a mixture of pigment suspended in a liquid); dries to form a hard coating
  • Similar words include: rouge, blusher, key
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PAINT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "63. Antlered animal"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that large northern deer with enormous flattened antlers in the male; called `elk' in europe and `moose' in north america
  • Similar words include: wapiti, Cervus elaphus, European elk
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ELK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "64. Cohort also known as "Zoomers""

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "65. Climbs without a partner, e.g."

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any activity that is performed alone without assistance
  • Similar words include: solo
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SOLOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36A: "66. Sponsored posts, e.g."

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a public promotion of some product or service
  • Similar words include: advertisement, advertizing, ad
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ADS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Settings for some bocce games 5
2D 2. Extraterrestrial 5
3D 3. Birthplace of Columbus 5
4D 4. Birth name of Marvel Comics' Black Panther 7
5D 5. Owl's sound 4
6D 6. Jazzy Fitzgerald 4
7D 7. Like most N.B.A. players 4
8D 8. Yogi's pose 5
9D 9. Yogi, once 7
10D 10. x or y 4
11D 11. Beginning of a story, for a journalist 4
12D 12. Bartender's supply 3
13D 20. Specialized subject 5
14D 21. Eurasian mountain range 5
15D 25. Like Peruvian pyramids 5
16D 26. Offshore drilling site 6
17D 27. Wall-mounted light fixture 6
18D 29. Attack 5
19D 30. Skirt style introduced by Christian Dior 5
20D 31. Exam for a future doc 4
21D 32. Actress Pompeo of "Grey's Anatomy" 5
22D 33. Big name in carving knives 5
23D 34. Skilled 5
24D 35. Young fellows 4
25D 40. One of more than 30 dogs owned by Queen Elizabeth II throughout her life 5
26D 41. Hand-dyed fabric 5
27D 43. Vice-presidential candidate of 2024 7
28D 44. Pet sitters? 7
29D 48. Spills (over) 5
30D 50. Ambitious and high-energy, say 5
31D 51. "The Little Engine That ___" 5
32D 52. Many men on dating shows 5
33D 53. What a surfer might ride 4
34D 54. Broadway's "Dear ___ Hansen" 4
35D 55. Reaction to a hilarious text 4
36D 56. Commute option 4
37D 57. "I'm in trouble!" 4
38D 58. Light run 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Settings for some bocce games"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a field of cultivated and mowed grass
  • Similar words include: lawn
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LAWNS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Extraterrestrial"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a person who comes from a foreign country; someone who does not owe allegiance to your country
  • Similar words include: exotic, estrange, extraterrestrial being
  • Opposite of: acquaintance, citizen
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ALIEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Birthplace of Columbus"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a seaport in northwestern italy; provincial capital of liguria
  • Similar words include: Genova
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GENOA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Birth name of Marvel Comics' Black Panther"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Owl's sound"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a loud raucous cry (as of an owl)
  • Similar words include: shucks, boo, razzing
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOOT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Jazzy Fitzgerald"

4 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Like most N.B.A. players"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a garment size for a tall person
  • Similar words include: magniloquent, marvellous, marvelous
  • Opposite of: short
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TALL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Yogi's pose"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (hinduism) a posture or manner of sitting (as in the practice of yoga)
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ASANA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Yogi, once"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. x or y"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a straight line through a body or figure that satisfies certain conditions
  • Similar words include: axis of rotation, axis vertebra, bloc
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AXIS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Beginning of a story, for a journalist"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

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!

12D: "12. Bartender's supply"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that water frozen in the solid state
  • Similar words include: chalk, icing, internal-combustion engine
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ICE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "20. Specialized subject"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a position particularly well suited to the person who occupies it
  • Similar words include: corner, ecological niche, recess
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NICHE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "21. Eurasian mountain range"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a mountain range in western russia extending from the arctic to the caspian sea; forms part of the traditional boundary between europe and asia
  • Similar words include: Ural Mountains
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: URALS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "25. Like Peruvian pyramids"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a member of the quechuan people living in the cuzco valley in peru
  • Similar words include: Inka, Inca
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: INCAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "26. Offshore drilling site"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that rig used in drilling for oil or gas
  • Similar words include: oil rig, drill rig, drilling rig
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OILRIG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "27. Wall-mounted light fixture"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a shelter or screen providing protection from enemy fire or from the weather
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCONCE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "29. Attack"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "30. Skirt style introduced by Christian Dior"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that place in a line or arrange so as to be parallel or straight
  • Similar words include: adjust, line up, align
  • Opposite of: skew
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ALINE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "31. Exam for a future doc"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "32. Actress Pompeo of "Grey's Anatomy""

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "33. Big name in carving knives"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "34. Skilled"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that someone who is dazzlingly skilled in any field
  • Similar words include: whiz, superstar, practiced
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ADEPT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "35. Young fellows"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "40. One of more than 30 dogs owned by Queen Elizabeth II throughout her life"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that either of two welsh breeds of long-bodied short-legged dogs with erect ears and a fox-like head
  • Similar words include: Welsh corgi
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CORGI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "41. Hand-dyed fabric"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a dyed fabric; a removable wax is used where the dye is not wanted
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BATIK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "43. Vice-presidential candidate of 2024"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "44. Pet sitters?"

7 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "48. Spills (over)"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that wet feed (especially for pigs) consisting of mostly kitchen waste mixed with water or skimmed or sour milk
  • Similar words include: mush, squish, slosh
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SLOPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "50. Ambitious and high-energy, say"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "51. "The Little Engine That ___""

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "52. Many men on dating shows"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a well-built sexually attractive man
  • Similar words include: lump, hunk
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HUNKS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "53. What a surfer might ride"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that one of a series of ridges that moves across the surface of a liquid (especially across a large body of water)
  • Similar words include: undulation, beckon, roll
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: WAVE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "54. 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!

35D: "55. Reaction to a hilarious text"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36D: "56. Commute option"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a barrier consisting of a horizontal bar and supports
  • Similar words include: railing, vilify, inveigh
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RAIL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37D: "57. "I'm in trouble!""

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

38D: "58. Light run"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a sharp change in direction
  • Similar words include: ramble on, even up, trot
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: JOG

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

36 Across Clues
38 Down Clues
74 Total Clues

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Last updated: January 13, 2026 at 04:13 AM