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October 22, 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2019

Difficulty Level: Medium Tuesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 78 (39 Across, 39 Down)

Average Word Length: 4.9 letters

October 22, 2019 NYT Clues Solutions

Across Clues Explained - Tuesday NYT Crossword October 22, 2019

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Shape of a U.F.O. 4
2A 5. Unit in Ohm's law 6
3A 11. Consumer protection org. 3
4A 14. Seis + dos 4
5A 15. Howl of happiness 6
6A 16. Nighttime flier 3
7A 17. Comedian who'd make a good pyrotechnician? 11
8A 19. The Dolphins or the Heat, on scoreboards 3
9A 20. "___ or sugar?" 5
10A 21. Youngster 3
11A 22. Lady birds 4
12A 23. Completely smash 5
13A 24. Supermodel who'd make a good broker? 9
14A 26. ___ Baba 3
15A 27. It abuts the Fla. panhandle 3
16A 29. Shock 7
17A 30. Carded, informally 4
18A 32. University URL ender 3
19A 34. Boxes of 12 5
20A 35. Activist who'd make a good valet? 9
21A 39. Famous Greek moralizer 5
22A 42. Bit of immorality 3
23A 43. Word after "he" and "she" 4
24A 47. Milwaukee team 7
25A 50. Yoga surface 3
26A 52. "Who am ___ judge?" 3
27A 53. Rapper who'd make a good barber? 9
28A 55. Not kind 5
29A 57. Things counted on a diet: Abbr. 4
30A 58. Condiment at a cantina 3
31A 59. Cheese-covered bite 5
32A 60. Thomas Gray wrote one on Eton College 3
33A 61. Actor who'd make a good dry cleaner? 11
34A 64. -: Abbr. 3
35A 65. Reach 6
36A 66. Muppet with a smartphone friend named Smartie 4
37A 67. E.R. staffers 3
38A 68. Pretty much 6
39A 69. Farmer's purchase 4

Let's Solve the Across Clues Together!

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

Clue 1 Across: "1. Shape of a U.F.O."

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that something with a round shape resembling a flat circular plate
  • Words that mean the same thing: phonograph recording, saucer, platter
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DISK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "5. Unit in Ohm's law"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a former unit of electric current (slightly smaller than the si ampere)
  • Words that mean the same thing: international ampere, A, amp
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AMPERE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "11. Consumer protection org."

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an independent agency of the united states federal government that maintains fair and free competition; enforces federal antitrust laws; educates the public about identity theft
  • Words that mean the same thing: Federal Trade Commission
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FTC

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. Seis + dos"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: OCHO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "15. Howl of happiness"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: HOORAH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "16. Nighttime flier"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that nocturnal bird of prey with hawk-like beak and claws and large head with front-facing eyes
  • Words that mean the same thing: hooter, bird of night, bird of Minerva
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OWL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "17. Comedian who'd make a good pyrotechnician?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: GEORGEBURNS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "19. The Dolphins or the Heat, on scoreboards"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: MIA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "20. "___ or sugar?""

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the best people or things in a group
  • Words that mean the same thing: bat, clobber, lick
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CREAM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "21. Youngster"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a small amount (especially of a drink)
  • Words that mean the same thing: toddler, bambino, add up
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "22. Lady birds"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: HENS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "23. Completely smash"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the whole amount
  • Words that mean the same thing: number, amount, entire
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TOTAL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "24. Supermodel who'd make a good broker?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: TYRABANKS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "26. ___ Baba"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that united states prizefighter who won the world heavyweight championship three times (born in 1942)
  • Words that mean the same thing: Muhammad Ali, Cassius Marcellus Clay, Cassius Clay
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "27. It abuts the Fla. panhandle"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a flat wing-shaped process or winglike part of an organism
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "29. Shock"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a sudden involuntary movement
  • Words that mean the same thing: start, galvanise, jump
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STARTLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "30. Carded, informally"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: IDED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "32. University URL ender"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: EDU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "34. Boxes of 12"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an occurrence of something
  • Words that mean the same thing: typeface, casing, example
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CASES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "35. Activist who'd make a good valet?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ROSAPARKS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "39. Famous Greek moralizer"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that greek author of fables (circa 620-560 bc)
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AESOP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "42. Bit of immorality"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "43. Word after "he" and "she""

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that express in words
  • Words that mean the same thing: order, enunciate, allege
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SAID

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "47. Milwaukee team"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about sports.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that someone who brews beer or ale from malt and hops and water
  • Words that mean the same thing: beer maker, brewer
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BREWERS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "50. Yoga surface"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a thick flat pad used as a floor covering
  • Words that mean the same thing: mat up, flat, lusterlessness
  • The opposite would be: unsnarl, disentangle
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "52. "Who am ___ judge?""

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ITO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "53. Rapper who'd make a good barber?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SEANCOMBS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "55. Not kind"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that unpleasantly stern
  • Words that mean the same thing: rough, coarse, abrasive
  • The opposite would be: fine
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HARSH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "57. Things counted on a diet: Abbr."

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: CALS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "58. Condiment at a cantina"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SAL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "59. Cheese-covered bite"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a tortilla chip topped with cheese and chili-pepper and broiled
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NACHO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "60. Thomas Gray wrote one on Eton College"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a lyric poem with complex stanza forms
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ODE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "61. Actor who'd make a good dry cleaner?"

Quick Info: This answer has 11 letters. It's a expert clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: JEREMYIRONS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "64. -: Abbr."

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: NEG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "65. Reach"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that to gain with effort
  • Words that mean the same thing: achieve, discover, hit
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ATTAIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Across: "66. Muppet with a smartphone friend named Smartie"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ELMO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Across: "67. E.R. staffers"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: DRS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Across: "68. Pretty much"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that in large part; mainly or chiefly
  • Words that mean the same thing: for the most part, by and large, generally
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MOSTLY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Across: "69. Farmer's purchase"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a small hard fruit
  • Words that mean the same thing: source, cum, seeded player
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SEED

    Great job if you got it right!

October 22, 2019 Down Hints: NYT Tuesday Crossword Guide

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Frankfurter, informally 3
2D 2. Frigid 7
3D 3. Nickname for someone under five feet 7
4D 4. Asian peninsula 5
5D 5. "If I may say a few words ..." 4
6D 6. Swarm 3
7D 7. Sullen 5
8D 8. Headaches for coders 6
9D 9. Go off on 6
10D 10. Responses to mumbles 3
11D 11. Instigates 7
12D 12. Word repeated before "little star," in a nursery rhyme 7
13D 13. Parts of teaching schedules 7
14D 18. Fancy bash 4
15D 22. Pester 6
16D 23. ___ chi ch'uan 3
17D 24. "I'm do-o-one!" 4
18D 25. In town again 4
19D 28. ___ Baux-de-Provence (French commune) 3
20D 31. Audibly overwhelms, with "out" 6
21D 33. Co. with brown trucks 3
22D 36. Grp. headquartered in Austria, which isn't a member 4
23D 37. Goals 4
24D 38. Essential molecule 3
25D 39. Run away (with) 7
26D 40. Device on which to get texts 7
27D 41. Steadiness on a ship 7
28D 44. Opening in a pet carrier 7
29D 45. "Put away your wallet!" 7
30D 46. Homer's cry 3
31D 48. Met, as a challenge 6
32D 49. Savvy 6
33D 51. Bangkok native 4
34D 54. Pasture noise 5
35D 56. Units of chains x furlongs 5
36D 59. Letters in a Big Apple address 4
37D 61. Awkward predicament 3
38D 62. 1,000 G's 3
39D 63. Covering for a bald spot 3

Now Let's Solve the Down Clues!

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

Clue 1 Down: "1. Frankfurter, informally"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a member of the genus canis (probably descended from the common wolf) that has been domesticated by man since prehistoric times; occurs in many breeds
  • Words that mean the same thing: Canis familiaris, blackguard, heel
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DOG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Frigid"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ICECOLD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Nickname for someone under five feet"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SHORTIE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Asian peninsula"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an asian peninsula (off manchuria) separating the yellow sea and the sea of japan; the korean name is dae-han-min-gook or han-gook
  • Words that mean the same thing: Han-Gook, Korean Peninsula, Dae-Han-Min-Gook
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: KOREA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. "If I may say a few words ...""

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the utterance of a sound similar to clearing the throat; intended to get attention, express hesitancy, fill a pause, hide embarrassment, warn a friend, etc.
  • Words that mean the same thing: hem
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AHEM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Swarm"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a disorderly crowd of people
  • Words that mean the same thing: throng, crime syndicate, rout
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MOB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Sullen"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: POUTY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Headaches for coders"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a wrong action attributable to bad judgment or ignorance or inattention
  • Words that mean the same thing: erroneousness, misplay, wrongdoing
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ERRORS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Go off on"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: RANTAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Responses to mumbles"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: EHS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Instigates"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that try to stir up public opinion
  • Words that mean the same thing: foment, stir up, agitate
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FOMENTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Word repeated before "little star," in a nursery rhyme"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a rapid change in brightness; a brief spark or flash
  • Words that mean the same thing: scintillate, blink, light
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TWINKLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. Parts of teaching schedules"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a collection of things sharing a common attribute
  • Words that mean the same thing: course of study, category, separate
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CLASSES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "18. Fancy bash"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a gay festivity
  • Words that mean the same thing: gala affair, jamboree, blowout
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GALA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "22. Pester"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that annoy continually or chronically
  • Words that mean the same thing: chivy, chevvy, harry
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HARASS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "23. ___ chi ch'uan"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a native or inhabitant of thailand
  • Words that mean the same thing: Siamese, Thai
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TAI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "24. "I'm do-o-one!""

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: TADA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "25. In town again"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the posterior part of a human (or animal) body from the neck to the end of the spine
  • Words that mean the same thing: stake, hind, punt
  • The opposite would be: ahead, veer
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BACK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "28. ___ Baux-de-Provence (French commune)"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a chronic inflammatory collagen disease affecting connective tissue (skin or joints)
  • Words that mean the same thing: lupus erythematosus, LE
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "31. Audibly overwhelms, with "out""

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that cover completely or make imperceptible
  • Words that mean the same thing: overwhelm, swim, drown
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DROWNS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "33. Co. with brown trucks"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: UPS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "36. Grp. headquartered in Austria, which isn't a member"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an organization of countries formed in 1961 to agree on a common policy for the production and sale of petroleum
  • Words that mean the same thing: Organization of Petroleum-Exporting Countries
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OPEC

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "37. Goals"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an anticipated outcome that is intended or that guides your planned actions
  • Words that mean the same thing: draw a bead on, calculate, aspire
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AIMS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "38. Essential molecule"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (biochemistry) a long linear polymer of nucleotides found in the nucleus but mainly in the cytoplasm of a cell where it is associated with microsomes; it transmits genetic information from dna to the cytoplasm and controls certain chemical processes in the cell
  • Words that mean the same thing: ribonucleic acid
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RNA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "39. Run away (with)"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that run away; usually includes taking something or somebody along
  • Words that mean the same thing: bolt, run off, absquatulate
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ABSCOND

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "40. Device on which to get texts"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: EREADER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "41. Steadiness on a ship"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SEALEGS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "44. Opening in a pet carrier"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: AIRHOLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "45. "Put away your wallet!""

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ITSONME

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "46. Homer's cry"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the syllable naming the first (tonic) note of any major scale in solmization
  • Words that mean the same thing: ut, do
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DOH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "48. Met, as a challenge"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ROSETO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "49. Savvy"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a kind of pain such as that caused by a wound or a burn or a sore
  • Words that mean the same thing: ache, smartness, hurt
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SMARTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "51. Bangkok native"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a native or inhabitant of thailand
  • Words that mean the same thing: Central Thai, Siamese, Tai
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: THAI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "54. Pasture noise"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the sound of sheep or goats (or any sound resembling this)
  • Words that mean the same thing: blat, baa, blate
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BLEAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "56. Units of chains x furlongs"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that extensive landed property (especially in the country) retained by the owner for his own use
  • Words that mean the same thing: Akko, Accho, estate
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACRES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "59. Letters in a Big Apple address"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: NYNY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "61. Awkward predicament"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that preserve of crushed fruit
  • Words that mean the same thing: throng, obturate, jampack
  • The opposite would be: free
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: JAM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Down: "62. 1,000 G's"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a cypriot monetary unit equal to one thousandth of a pound
  • Words that mean the same thing: mile, milliliter, Swedish mile
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MIL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Down: "63. Covering for a bald spot"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that surface layer of ground containing a mat of grass and grass roots
  • Words that mean the same thing: sodomite, superoxide dismutase, bugger
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SOD

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 49 62.8%
Short Answer 22 28.2%
Abbreviation 2 2.6%
Celebrity/Entertainment 2 2.6%
History 2 2.6%
Sports 1 1.3%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 39
Down Clues 39
Total Clues 78
Average Answer Length 4.9 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 11 letters

Fun Tips to Solve Crossword Puzzles!

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

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

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

Last Updated: September 29, 2025 at 12:46 PM

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Wednesday, December 17, 2025

Down Clues NYT December 17, 2025 - Today's Complete Vertical Solutions

Wednesday's NYT Down Dec 17 - Full Vertical Grid Solutions

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 41 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: October 25 2021 NYT Clues Solutions | October 19 2022 NYT Clues Solutions | August 29 2019 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for December 17, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Wednesday, December 17, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date December 17, 2025
Day of Week Wednesday
Total Down Clues 41 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Challenging

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 41 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. Tarot suit associated with the element of water
2 Down 2. Yamaha product
3 Down 3. What makes a stud become studious?
4 Down 4. Fully get
5 Down 5. Hog's home
6 Down 6. "That's a real shame"
7 Down 7. Steakhouse order
8 Down 8. Marchers in sidewalk cracks
9 Down 9. Howl at the moon
10 Down 10. Chevy S.U.V.
11 Down 11. Authentic
12 Down 12. Ones from platypuses have leathery shells
13 Down 13. Fly by night ... or by day
14 Down 18. Compact holder
15 Down 22. Neighbor of Ont.
16 Down 24. Red carpet hairstyle, perhaps
17 Down 25. Jost's longtime "Weekend Update" co-anchor
18 Down 26. Food you might eat wearing a bib
19 Down 27. Overplay for the audience
20 Down 28. Was the bigger person, say
21 Down 29. Follow, as advice
22 Down 30. Have faith in
23 Down 31. Canines, e.g.
24 Down 32. Mega-
25 Down 33. Big name in chicken or boxing
26 Down 38. 1990s comedy inspired by "Emma"
27 Down 40. "Get Smart" bad guys
28 Down 42. Suffix with beat or neat
29 Down 43. Throw off
30 Down 46. Stick in the ground?
31 Down 47. Just about anything on a string
32 Down 50. With 42-Across, the Mafia
33 Down 51. Cultivated, in a way
34 Down 52. Start a turn in Twister
35 Down 53. Time to do without
36 Down 54. Gary's ___ Towne Tavern (rival bar on "Cheers")
37 Down 56. Minuscule amount
38 Down 57. Short stroke
39 Down 58. Batting avg., e.g.
40 Down 60. Rocksteady relative
41 Down 61. "___ bin ein Berliner"

Detailed Hints and Answers for All Down Clues

Need help? Here are comprehensive hints and answers for each Down clue. Also check these helpful guides:

Complete Down Solutions:

1 Down: "1. Tarot suit associated with the element of water"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: C__S
  • Similar words: cup, loving cup
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CUPS

2 Down: "2. Yamaha product"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: O__E
  • Similar words: hautbois, hautboy
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OBOE

3 Down: "3. What makes a stud become studious?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: I__S
  • Similar words: IOU
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an informal debt instrument; representing `I owe you'
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IOUS

4 Down: "4. Fully get"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'M'
  • Word pattern: F____M
  • Similar words: fthm, sound
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FATHOM

5 Down: "5. Hog's home"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'Y'
  • Similar words: pigpen, eye infection
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an infection of the sebaceous gland of the eyelid
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STY

6 Down: "6. "That's a real shame""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A__S
  • Similar words: unfortunately, unluckily
  • Opposite of: luckily
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a flat wing-shaped process or winglike part of an organism
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ALAS

7 Down: "7. Steakhouse order"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: R__E
  • Similar words: uncommon, rarified
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: not widely known; especially valued for its uncommonness
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RARE

8 Down: "8. Marchers in sidewalk cracks"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A__S
  • Similar words: pismire, emmet
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ANTS

9 Down: "9. Howl at the moon"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'Y'
  • Similar words: alcove, bay tree
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BAY

10 Down: "10. Chevy S.U.V."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: S______N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: relating to or characteristic of or situated in suburbs
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SUBURBAN

11 Down: "11. Authentic"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: T________E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TRUETOLIFE

12 Down: "12. Ones from platypuses have leathery shells"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: E__S
  • Similar words: testis, egg
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EGGS

13 Down: "13. Fly by night ... or by day"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: P__T
  • Similar words: pestis, pesterer
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PEST

14 Down: "18. Compact holder"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: P___E
  • Similar words: handbag, bag
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PURSE

15 Down: "22. Neighbor of Ont."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'Q' and ends with 'E'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer QUE

16 Down: "24. Red carpet hairstyle, perhaps"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'U' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: U__O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer UPDO

17 Down: "25. Jost's longtime "Weekend Update" co-anchor"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'E'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CHE

18 Down: "26. Food you might eat wearing a bib"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: C___S
  • Similar words: pubic louse, crab
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: infestation of the pubic hair by crab lice
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CRABS

19 Down: "27. Overplay for the audience"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: H___P
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HAMUP

20 Down: "28. Was the bigger person, say"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: A________D
  • Similar words: rationalize, justify
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: acknowledge faults or shortcomings or failing
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer APOLOGIZED

21 Down: "29. Follow, as advice"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: A___N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ACTON

22 Down: "30. Have faith in"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: T___T
  • Similar words: believe, rely
  • Opposite of: distrust
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TRUST

23 Down: "31. Canines, e.g."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'H'
  • Word pattern: T___H
  • Similar words: tooth, dentition
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TEETH

24 Down: "32. Mega-"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'U' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: U___A
  • Similar words: radical, extremist
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: (used of opinions and actions) far beyond the norm
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ULTRA

25 Down: "33. Big name in chicken or boxing"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: T___N
  • Similar words: Mike Tyson
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TYSON

26 Down: "38. 1990s comedy inspired by "Emma""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: C______S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CLUELESS

27 Down: "40. "Get Smart" bad guys"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: K__S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KAOS

28 Down: "42. Suffix with beat or neat"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'K'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NIK

29 Down: "43. Throw off"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: R___L
  • Similar words: gross out, fight off
  • Opposite of: attract
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: cause to move back by force or influence
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer REPEL

30 Down: "46. Stick in the ground?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'E'
  • Similar words: teeing ground, golf tee
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the starting place for each hole on a golf course
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TEE

31 Down: "47. Just about anything on a string"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: C____Y
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CATTOY

32 Down: "50. With 42-Across, the Mafia"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: C__A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer COSA

33 Down: "51. Cultivated, in a way"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: H__D
  • Similar words: hoe
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: dig with a hoe
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HOED

34 Down: "52. Start a turn in Twister"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: S__N
  • Similar words: twirl, spin around
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a swift whirling motion (usually of a missile)
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SPIN

35 Down: "53. Time to do without"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: L__T
  • Similar words: Lententide, impart
  • Opposite of: borrow
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a period of 40 weekdays from Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LENT

36 Down: "54. Gary's ___ Towne Tavern (rival bar on "Cheers")"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: O__E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 36

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OLDE

37 Down: "56. Minuscule amount"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: I__A
  • Similar words: scintilla, tittle
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a tiny or scarcely detectable amount
  • This is Down clue number 37

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IOTA

38 Down: "57. Short stroke"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: P__T
  • Similar words: putting
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: hitting a golf ball that is on the green using a putter
  • This is Down clue number 38

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PUTT

39 Down: "58. Batting avg., e.g."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: S__T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 39

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STAT

40 Down: "60. Rocksteady relative"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'A'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 40

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SKA

41 Down: "61. "___ bin ein Berliner""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'H'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 41

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ICH

Expert Strategies for Solving Down Clues

Master the vertical clues with these professional tips:

Why Start with Down Clues?

  • Down clues often reveal key letters for intersecting words
  • Vertical patterns can unlock difficult sections
  • Many prefixes and suffixes run vertically
  • Down answers often help solve Across clues

Down Clue Patterns to Recognize

  1. Fill-in-the-blank clues: These are usually the easiest Down entries
  2. Prefixes and suffixes: Common word parts often run vertically
  3. Abbreviations: Look for clues with "Abbr." or shortened forms
  4. Plural indicators: Words ending in 'S' are common in Down
  5. Pop culture references: Names and titles often appear vertically

Time-Saving Down Techniques

Technique How It Helps
Scan all Down first Get a mental map of the vertical flow
Fill short Down words 3-4 letter words are often prefixes or connectors
Use crossing letters Across letters help confirm Down answers
Look for themes Related Down answers often share a theme

Frequently Asked Questions About Down Clues

What are Down clues in crossword puzzles?

Down clues are the vertical entries in a crossword puzzle that read from top to bottom. They're numbered and correspond to specific columns in the grid.

Should I solve Down or Across clues first?

Many solvers alternate between Down and Across clues to build momentum. Down clues can help unlock difficult sections by providing key intersecting letters. The best approach is to solve the clues you find easiest first, regardless of direction.

How many Down clues are in today's puzzle?

Today's NYT crossword has 41 Down clues.

Are Down clues easier than Across clues?

Neither direction is inherently easier. The difficulty depends on the specific clues and your knowledge. However, Down clues often contain helpful prefixes, suffixes, and word parts that can be easier to guess.

How do Down clues interact with Across clues?

Down and Across clues intersect at various points in the grid. Solving one can provide letters that help solve the other, making the puzzle easier as you progress.

About This Page: We provide comprehensive Down clues solutions and hints for the NYT Crossword to help you improve your solving skills. This site is not affiliated with The New York Times.

Last Updated: December 17, 2025 at 05:16 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, December 17 2025 down clues

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