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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

Saturday, July 18, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers July 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: 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. Unite, with "up" 4
2A 5. Many an extra in the "Lord of the Rings" movies 3
3A 8. Like fondue, traditionally 5
4A 13. Nairobi-based collection of NGOs 5
5A 15. Restriction on how much one can serve 9
6A 17. Conductor's reference 5
7A 18. Opportunity to compare notes, perhaps 9
8A 19. Very traditional sort 6
9A 21. Khloe, Kim or Kourtney, familiarly 3
10A 22. Jennifer who won a Pulitzer for "A Visit From the Goon Squad" 4
11A 23. Concerning 4
12A 24. Weight 4
13A 26. Orange video game character who appears in "Wreck-It Ralph" 5
14A 27. Retailer with mountains in its logo 3
15A 28. Persuade, as on a course of action 4
16A 29. Shade 3
17A 30. Smartphone feature that debuted worldwide in 2011 13
18A 34. Hot 6
19A 35. Kind of acid partly responsible for sourdough's tang 6
20A 37. "Sorry, that's way above my pay grade" 13
21A 40. Black ___ 3
22A 41. Line holders 4
23A 42. Brilliant example 3
24A 43. Digs up by the roots 5
25A 46. Cry at the end of a countdown 4
26A 47. Dead center? 4
27A 48. Song whose titular subject has a "dark brown voice" 4
28A 49. Mesh 3
29A 50. One side of many a transaction 6
30A 52. Backs up on its own, say 9
31A 55. Titular animated dog of children's TV 5
32A 56. Go down swinging, perhaps 9
33A 57. What might add a bit of flavor to a salsa? 5
34A 58. Company bought by Tempur-Pedic in 2012 5
35A 59. W.W. II-era occupation for baseball's Moe Berg, following his playing career 3
36A 60. Rides 4

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Unite, with "up""

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a cooperative unit (especially in sports)
  • Similar words include: squad, team up
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TEAM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "5. Many an extra in the "Lord of the Rings" movies"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (folklore) fairies that are somewhat mischievous
  • Similar words include: extremely low frequency, brownie, pixy
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ELF

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "8. Like fondue, traditionally"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the natives or inhabitants of switzerland
  • Similar words include: Swiss people
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SWISS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "13. Nairobi-based collection of NGOs"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "15. Restriction on how much one can serve"

9 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "17. Conductor's reference"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a number or letter indicating quality (especially of a student's performance)
  • Similar words include: hit, musical score, sexual conquest
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCORE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "18. Opportunity to compare notes, perhaps"

9 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "19. Very traditional sort"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that someone who insists on great precision and correctness (especially in the use of words)
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PURIST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "21. Khloe, Kim or Kourtney, familiarly"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a female person who has the same parents as another person
  • Similar words include: te, atomic number 14, sister
  • Opposite of: brother
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SIS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "22. Jennifer who won a Pulitzer for "A Visit From the Goon Squad""

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "23. Concerning"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "24. Weight"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the property of being large in mass
  • Similar words include: ponderousness, ponderosity, heave up
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HEFT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "26. Orange video game character who appears in "Wreck-It Ralph""

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "27. Retailer with mountains in its logo"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "28. Persuade, as on a course of action"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the activity of persuading someone to buy
  • Similar words include: deal, trade, betray
  • Opposite of: buy
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SELL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "29. Shade"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the quality of a color as determined by its dominant wavelength
  • Similar words include: imbue, chromaticity
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HUE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "30. Smartphone feature that debuted worldwide in 2011"

13 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "34. Hot"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an erotic person
  • Similar words include: titillating
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EROTIC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "35. Kind of acid partly responsible for sourdough's tang"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that of or relating to or obtained from milk (especially sour milk or whey)
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LACTIC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "37. "Sorry, that's way above my pay grade""

13 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "40. Black ___"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (roman mythology) goddess of abundance and fertility; wife of saturn; counterpart of greek rhea and cybele of ancient asia minor
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "41. Line holders"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a long thin implement made of metal or wood
  • Similar words include: retinal rod, pole, rod
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RODS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "42. Brilliant example"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that art highly prized for its beauty or perfection
  • Similar words include: stone, precious stone, gemstone
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GEM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "43. Digs up by the roots"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that informal terms for a meal
  • Similar words include: mooch, eats, bum
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GRUBS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "46. Cry at the end of a countdown"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an instance or single occasion for some event
  • Similar words include: clock time, clock, sentence
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TIME

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "47. Dead center?"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a place for the burial of a corpse (especially beneath the ground and marked by a tombstone)
  • Similar words include: grave
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TOMB

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "48. Song whose titular subject has a "dark brown voice""

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "49. Mesh"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "50. One side of many a transaction"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that someone who purchases and maintains an inventory of goods to be sold
  • Similar words include: principal, trader, monger
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DEALER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "52. Backs up on its own, say"

9 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "55. Titular animated dog of children's TV"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "56. Go down swinging, perhaps"

9 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an out resulting from the batter getting three strikes
  • Pattern: _________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STRIKEOUT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "57. What might add a bit of flavor to a salsa?"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a small drum; played with the hands
  • Similar words include: Tragelaphus eurycerus, bongo drum, Boocercus eurycerus
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BONGO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "58. Company bought by Tempur-Pedic in 2012"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "59. W.W. II-era occupation for baseball's Moe Berg, following his playing career"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (military) a secret agent hired by a state to obtain information about its enemies or by a business to obtain industrial secrets from competitors
  • Similar words include: stag, spot, snoop
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SPY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36A: "60. Rides"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that someone (especially a woman) who annoys people by constantly finding fault
  • Similar words include: scold, plug, hen-peck
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NAGS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Left 7
2D 2. "Um ... what?!" 8
3D 3. With even stronger reasoning, in law 9
4D 4. Super man? 5
5D 5. Quite a few characters in 2025's "Elio," for short 3
6D 6. Unleashes 7
7D 7. Results of one's labors, so to speak 5
8D 8. Shrewd 3
9D 9. You might give this to someone you want to avoid 9
10D 10. Outward appearance 5
11D 11. Instrument that's held at about a 45-degree angle from the player's body 5
12D 12. Inner tube? 5
13D 14. "Bonjour, ___ amis!" 3
14D 16. Figures listed on Zocdoc, for short 3
15D 20. Gustav Klimt masterpiece 7
16D 25. Choose 5
17D 26. Charlatans 6
18D 28. Exercises with a "butterfly" variation, in which the soles of one's feet are pressed together 6
19D 29. Overtook? 7
20D 31. Cosmetic additive that comes from the Southwest 9
21D 32. Flowering period 5
22D 33. Actor who plays the title role on TV's "Andor" 9
23D 36. Classic Easter treat 8
24D 38. Report 7
25D 39. Items frozen in cryopreservation 7
26D 43. Flute, for one 5
27D 44. Way 5
28D 45. Prefix with marathon 5
29D 46. Bygone recorders 5
30D 47. Grabber 5
31D 49. Race of supernatural spirits 3
32D 51. Fall back 3
33D 53. You might look up to this 3
34D 54. Unpleasant digs 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Left"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. "Um ... what?!""

8 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. With even stronger reasoning, in law"

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Super man?"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Quite a few characters in 2025's "Elio," for short"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Unleashes"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Results of one's labors, so to speak"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the ripened reproductive body of a seed plant
  • Similar words include: yield
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FRUIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Shrewd"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that marked by skill in deception
  • Similar words include: guileful, slick, dodgy
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SLY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. You might give this to someone you want to avoid"

9 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Outward appearance"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Instrument that's held at about a 45-degree angle from the player's body"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a stringed instrument of india; has a long neck and movable frets; has 6 or 7 metal strings for playing and usually 13 resonating strings
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SITAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Inner tube?"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a slender tube inserted inside a tubular body part (as a blood vessel) to provide support during and after surgical anastomosis
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STENT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "14. "Bonjour, ___ amis!""

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a state in new england
  • Similar words include: ME, Pine Tree State, Maine
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "16. Figures listed on Zocdoc, for short"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a radioactive transuranic element synthesized by bombarding einsteinium with alpha particles (md is the current symbol for mendelevium but mv was formerly the symbol)
  • Similar words include: Dr., Md, physician
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MDS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "20. Gustav Klimt masterpiece"

7 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "25. Choose"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an exclusive group of people
  • Similar words include: elite, chosen
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ELECT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "26. Charlatans"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an untrained person who pretends to be a physician and who dispenses medical advice
  • Similar words include: quack
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: QUACKS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "28. Exercises with a "butterfly" variation, in which the soles of one's feet are pressed together"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "29. Overtook?"

7 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that save up as for future use
  • Similar words include: collect, hoard, stash
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOARDED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "31. Cosmetic additive that comes from the Southwest"

9 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "32. Flowering period"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the organic process of bearing flowers
  • Similar words include: heyday, rosiness, bloom of youth
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BLOOM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "33. Actor who plays the title role on TV's "Andor""

9 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "36. Classic Easter treat"

8 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "38. Report"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "39. Items frozen in cryopreservation"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (botany) a minute rudimentary plant contained within a seed or an archegonium
  • Similar words include: embryo, fertilized egg, conceptus
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EMBRYOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "43. Flute, for one"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a brittle transparent solid with irregular atomic structure
  • Similar words include: drinking glass, meth, deoxyephedrine
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GLASS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "44. Way"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an established line of travel or access
  • Similar words include: itinerary, road, path
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ROUTE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "45. Prefix with marathon"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (used of opinions and actions) far beyond the norm
  • Similar words include: radical, extremist
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ULTRA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "46. Bygone recorders"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "47. Grabber"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

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!

31D: "49. Race of supernatural spirits"

3 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a device consisting of a container of fuel and two explosive charges; the first charge bursts open the fuel container at a predetermined height and spreads the fuel in a cloud that mixes with atmospheric oxygen; the second charge detonates the cloud which creates an enormous blast wave and incinerates whatever is below
  • Similar words include: fuel-air explosive
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FAE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "51. Fall back"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a gradual decline (in size or strength or power or number)
  • Similar words include: ebbing, ebb out, wane
  • Opposite of: tide
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EBB

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "53. You might look up to this"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the atmosphere and outer space as viewed from the earth
  • Similar words include: flip, toss, pitch
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SKY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "54. Unpleasant digs"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an infection of the sebaceous gland of the eyelid
  • Similar words include: stye, pigsty, eye infection
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STY

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
34 Down Clues
70 Total Clues

More NYT Crossword Help

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Last updated: July 18, 2026 at 05:39 AM