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Tuesday, December 9, 2025

Tuesday NYT Down Solutions December 09, 2025 - Every Vertical Clue Decoded with Hints

All NYT Down Clues December 09, 2025 - 39 Vertical Answers with Hints

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 39 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: Tuesday NYT Mini Crossword Answers | July 22 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | May 11 2023 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for December 09, 2025 — NYT Down Clues - Tuesday, December 09, 2025

Down Clues Statistics
Detail	Information
Date	December 09, 2025
Day of Week	Tuesday
Total Down Clues	39 clues
Direction	Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty	Tricky

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 39 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number	Clue
1 Down	1. Computing pioneer Lovelace
2 Down	2. Argue
3 Down	3. Neutralized, as an explosive situation
4 Down	4. Launch
5 Down	5. Org. in charge of school fund-raisers
6 Down	6. One who might ask "Fair dinkum?"
7 Down	7. Like some minor celebrities
8 Down	8. Asahi Super Dry or Kirin Lager
9 Down	9. Org. that oversees air quality initiatives
10 Down	10. Bit in a round of "He loves me, he loves me not"
11 Down	11. Professor ___ (title for some retirees)
12 Down	12. Light lager
13 Down	13. The Cards, on scoreboards
14 Down	18. Cover letter accompaniment
15 Down	19. Mardi Gras city, informally
16 Down	23. Poke
17 Down	24. Music app named for a figure in Greek myth
18 Down	25. Pigmented rings
19 Down	26. Part of L.G.B.T.Q.+
20 Down	32. "By Jove, that's it!"
21 Down	33. 33-Across, across the Atlantic
22 Down	34. Web portal launched with Windows 95
23 Down	36. Malfunctions in the Matrix, in "The Matrix"
24 Down	37. Sound of a sad trombone
25 Down	38. Many an animated meme loop
26 Down	39. To date
27 Down	40. Silverback, for one
28 Down	43. Built to last
29 Down	44. Give for safekeeping
30 Down	45. "How stupid of me!"
31 Down	47. "Edie & ___: A Very Long Engagement" (2009 documentary)
32 Down	48. Bring into harmony
33 Down	51. With a wink, say
34 Down	52. Smooths (out)
35 Down	53. On a regular basis
36 Down	57. Special ___
37 Down	58. "J to ___ L-O! The Remixes" (2002 Jennifer Lopez album)
38 Down	59. One of the four fundamental states of matter
39 Down	60. Some Ph.D. students

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. Computing pioneer Lovelace"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'A' and ends with 'A'
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

ADA

2 Down: "2. Argue"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'D' and ends with 'E'
Word pattern: D_____E
Similar words: difference, gainsay
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: a disagreement or argument about something important
This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

DISPUTE

3 Down: "3. Neutralized, as an explosive situation"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'D' and ends with 'D'
Word pattern: D_____D
Similar words: defuse
Opposite of: fuse
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: remove the triggering device from
This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

DEFUSED

4 Down: "4. Launch"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
Word pattern: S___T
Similar words: embark on, go
Opposite of: stop
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: the beginning of anything
This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

START

5 Down: "5. Org. in charge of school fund-raisers"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'P' and ends with 'A'
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

PTA

6 Down: "6. One who might ask "Fair dinkum?""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'A' and ends with 'E'
Word pattern: A____E
Similar words: Australian
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: a native or inhabitant of Australia
This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

AUSSIE

7 Down: "7. Like some minor celebrities"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'D' and ends with 'T'
Word pattern: D___T
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

DLIST

8 Down: "8. Asahi Super Dry or Kirin Lager"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'R' and ends with 'R'
Word pattern: R______R
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

RICEBEER

9 Down: "9. Org. that oversees air quality initiatives"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'E' and ends with 'A'
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

EPA

10 Down: "10. Bit in a round of "He loves me, he loves me not""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'P' and ends with 'L'
Word pattern: P___L
Similar words: flower petal
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: part of the perianth that is usually brightly colored
This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

PETAL

11 Down: "11. Professor ___ (title for some retirees)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'E' and ends with 'A'
Word pattern: E_____A
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

EMERITA

12 Down: "12. Light lager"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'P' and ends with 'R'
Word pattern: P_____R
Similar words: Pilsener
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

PILSNER

13 Down: "13. The Cards, on scoreboards"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'S' and ends with 'L'
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

STL

14 Down: "18. Cover letter accompaniment"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'R' and ends with 'E'
Word pattern: R____E
Similar words: re-start, restart
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: short descriptive summary (of events)
This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

RESUME

15 Down: "19. Mardi Gras city, informally"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'N' and ends with 'A'
Word pattern: N__A
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

NOLA

16 Down: "23. Poke"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'J' and ends with 'B'
Similar words: prod, thrusting
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: a sharp hand gesture (resembling a blow)
This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

JAB

17 Down: "24. Music app named for a figure in Greek myth"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'P' and ends with 'A'
Word pattern: P_____A
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

PANDORA

18 Down: "25. Pigmented rings"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
Word pattern: A_____S
Similar words: ring of color, areola
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

AREOLAS

19 Down: "26. Part of L.G.B.T.Q.+"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'G' and ends with 'Y'
Similar words: homosexual, mirthful
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

GAY

20 Down: "32. "By Jove, that's it!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'A' and ends with 'A'
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

AHA

21 Down: "33. 33-Across, across the Atlantic"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'Z' and ends with 'D'
Similar words: z, zee
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: the 26th letter of the Roman alphabet
This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

ZED

22 Down: "34. Web portal launched with Windows 95"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'M' and ends with 'N'
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

MSN

23 Down: "36. Malfunctions in the Matrix, in "The Matrix""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'G' and ends with 'S'
Word pattern: G______S
Similar words: bug, glitch
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: a fault or defect in a computer program
This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

GLITCHES

24 Down: "37. Sound of a sad trombone"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'W' and ends with 'H'
Word pattern: W____H
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

WAHWAH

25 Down: "38. Many an animated meme loop"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'G' and ends with 'F'
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

GIF

26 Down: "39. To date"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'A' and ends with 'W'
Word pattern: A_____W
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

ASOFNOW

27 Down: "40. Silverback, for one"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'G' and ends with 'A'
Word pattern: G_____A
Similar words: Gorilla gorilla
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

GORILLA

28 Down: "43. Built to last"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'D' and ends with 'E'
Word pattern: D_____E
Similar words: long-lasting, lasting
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: existing for a long time
This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

DURABLE

29 Down: "44. Give for safekeeping"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'E' and ends with 'T'
Word pattern: E_____T
Similar words: confide, leave
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: confer a trust upon
This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

ENTRUST

30 Down: "45. "How stupid of me!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'D' and ends with 'H'
Similar words: ut, do
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

DOH

31 Down: "47. "Edie & ___: A Very Long Engagement" (2009 documentary)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'T' and ends with 'A'
Word pattern: T__A
Similar words: Theia
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

THEA

32 Down: "48. Bring into harmony"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'A' and ends with 'E'
Word pattern: A____E
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: adjust or accustom to; bring into harmony with
This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

ATTUNE

33 Down: "51. With a wink, say"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'W' and ends with 'Y'
Word pattern: W___Y
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: in a wry manner
This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

WRYLY

34 Down: "52. Smooths (out)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'I' and ends with 'S'
Word pattern: I___S
Similar words: press, branding iron
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: metal shackles; for hands or legs
This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

IRONS

35 Down: "53. On a regular basis"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'O' and ends with 'N'
Word pattern: O___N
Similar words: much, ofttimes
Opposite of: infrequently
This is an abbreviation or acronym
Definition: many times at short intervals
This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

OFTEN

36 Down: "57. Special ___"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'O' and ends with 'S'
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 36

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

OPS

37 Down: "58. "J to ___ L-O! The Remixes" (2002 Jennifer Lopez album)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'T' and ends with 'A'
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 37

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

THA

38 Down: "59. One of the four fundamental states of matter"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'G' and ends with 'S'
Similar words: gaseous state, shoot a line
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 38

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

GAS

39 Down: "60. Some Ph.D. students"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
Similar words: tantalum, Ta
This is an abbreviation or acronym
This is Down clue number 39

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer

TAS

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

Fill-in-the-blank clues: These are usually the easiest Down entries
Prefixes and suffixes: Common word parts often run vertically
Abbreviations: Look for clues with "Abbr." or shortened forms
Plural indicators: Words ending in 'S' are common in Down
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 39 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.

Sunday, September 28, 2025

December 28, 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

Quick Navigation - Table of Contents

Puzzle Overview & Difficulty
Across Clues (37 clues)
Down Clues (33 clues)
Category Breakdown
Complete Puzzle Statistics
Pro Solving Tips
Related Crossword Solutions

Related Puzzles

Check out these other crossword solutions and helpful guides:

Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Saturday, December 28, 2019

Difficulty Level: Moderate Wednesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 70 (37 Across, 33 Down)

Average Word Length: 5.6 letters

December 28, 2019 NYT Clues Solutions

NYT Saturday Crossword Across Clues - December 28, 2019 Solutions

No.	Clue	Letters
1A	1. Where hands go in the Time Warp dance	4
2A	5. Baker's units: Abbr.	4
3A	9. Bronze Age chronicle	5
4A	14. Number of sides on a PARE road sign	4
5A	15. Springs for vacation trips	4
6A	16. Character in "Monsters, Inc."	5
7A	17. Myanmar neighbor	4
8A	18. Was completely satisfying	10
9A	20. Forewarned	8
10A	22. Former Soviet naval base	6
11A	23. Letters that often precede a Ph.D.	3
12A	24. Like some humor	3
13A	25. Tiny amounts	4
14A	26. More than just in	6
15A	28. Finds a way	7
16A	31. Doe, perhaps	5
17A	32. Went too	9
18A	34. Some framing supplies	4
19A	35. Like some fruits and ice sheets	5
20A	36. Censure of a senator	4
21A	37. Old sports cars named for a fish	9
22A	39. One of the five rivers of 56-Across	5
23A	40. Involves	7
24A	41. They can get you into the Taj Mahal	6
25A	42. Form of relief	4
26A	43. Coach	3
27A	44. Vets, e.g.: Abbr.	3
28A	45. User of the "I Ching"	6
29A	48. Liquidity concern	8
30A	50. Less efficient washers	10
31A	52. Like triple fudge brownies	4
32A	53. Outdo	5
33A	54. Last word in the first verse of "Old Mother Hubbard"	4
34A	55. "Put Your Head on My Shoulder" singer, 1959	4
35A	56. See 39-Across	5
36A	57. Help in a small way?	4
37A	58. Try	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. Where hands go in the Time Warp dance"

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

Here's how to solve it:

This could be something that either side of the body below the waist and above the thigh
Words that mean the same thing: pelvic arch, rose hip, pelvis
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: HIPS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "5. Baker's units: Abbr."

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: TSPS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "9. Bronze Age chronicle"

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 greek epic poem (attributed to homer) describing the siege of troy
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: ILIAD

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. Number of sides on a PARE road sign"

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: OCHO

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "15. Springs for vacation trips"

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 health resort near a spring or at the seaside
Words that mean the same thing: resort hotel, health spa, health club
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: SPAS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "16. Character in "Monsters, Inc.""

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 punctuation mark (,) used to indicate the separation of elements within the grammatical structure of a sentence
Words that mean the same thing: Polygonia comma, comma butterfly
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: COMMA

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "17. Myanmar neighbor"

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 mountainous landlocked communist state in southeastern asia; achieved independence from france in 1949
Words that mean the same thing: Laotian, Lao People's Democratic Republic, Lao
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: LAOS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "18. Was completely satisfying"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: HITTHESPOT

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "20. Forewarned"

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

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: ONNOTICE

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "22. Former Soviet naval base"

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 port city of south central ukraine on an arm of the black sea
Words that mean the same thing: Odesa
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: ODESSA

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "23. Letters that often precede a Ph.D."

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: GRE

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "24. Like some humor"

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 humorously sarcastic or mocking
Words that mean the same thing: ironic, dry, ironical
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: WRY

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "25. Tiny amounts"

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 brief (and hurriedly handwritten) note
Words that mean the same thing: jot down, soupcon, touch
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: JOTS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "26. More than just in"

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: REDHOT

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "28. Finds a way"

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: MAKESDO

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "31. Doe, perhaps"

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

Here's how to solve it:

This could be something that a name that has been assumed temporarily
Words that mean the same thing: a.k.a., false name, also known as
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: ALIAS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "32. Went too"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: CAMEALONG

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "34. Some framing supplies"

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 thick flat pad used as a floor covering
Words that mean the same thing: tangle, felt, matte
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: MATS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "35. Like some fruits and ice sheets"

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

The answer is: CORED

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "36. Censure of a senator"

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: ETTU

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "37. Old sports cars named for a fish"

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

Here's how to solve it:

This could be something that large venomous ray with large barbed spines near the base of a thin whiplike tail capable of inflicting severe wounds
Words that mean the same thing: stingray
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: STINGRAYS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "39. One of the five rivers of 56-Across"

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

Here's how to solve it:

This could be something that (greek mythology) a river in hades; the souls of the dead had to drink from it, which made them forget all they had done and suffered when they were alive
Words that mean the same thing: River Lethe
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: LETHE

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "40. Involves"

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 land received by fee tail
Words that mean the same thing: fee-tail, imply, mean
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: ENTAILS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "41. They can get you into the Taj Mahal"

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

Here's how to solve it:

This could be something that the basic unit of money in sri lanka; equal to 100 cents
Words that mean the same thing: Sri Lanka rupee, rupee, Mauritian rupee
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: RUPEES

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "42. Form of relief"

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 money or goods contributed to the poor
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: ALMS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "43. Coach"

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 vehicle carrying many passengers; used for public transport
Words that mean the same thing: omnibus, jalopy, passenger vehicle
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: BUS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "44. Vets, e.g.: 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: DRS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "45. User of the "I Ching""

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 an authoritative person who divines the future
Words that mean the same thing: vaticinator, prophesier, seer
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: ORACLE

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "48. Liquidity concern"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: CASHFLOW

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "50. Less efficient washers"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: TOPLOADERS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "52. Like triple fudge brownies"

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 people who have possessions and wealth (considered as a group)
Words that mean the same thing: deep, plenteous, robust
The opposite would be: poor people, lean
Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
Ready for the answer? Click here!

The answer is: RICH

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "53. Outdo"

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: ONEUP

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "54. Last word in the first verse of "Old Mother Hubbard""

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

Here's how to solve it:

This could be something that a canonical hour that is the ninth hour of the day counting from sunrise
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: NONE

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "55. "Put Your Head on My Shoulder" singer, 1959"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: ANKA

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "56. See 39-Across"

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 mythology) the god of the underworld in ancient mythology; brother of zeus and husband of persephone
Words that mean the same thing: Hell, Pluto, infernal region
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: HADES

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Across: "57. Help in a small way?"

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: ASST

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Across: "58. Try"

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 trying something to find out about it
Words that mean the same thing: tryout, trial, mental testing
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: TEST

Great job if you got it right!

NYT Saturday Crossword Down Clues - December 28, 2019 Answers

No.	Clue	Letters
1D	1. Things seen that aren't there	9
2D	2. "You and me both"	10
3D	3. Gave much less than 100%	10
4D	4. Nothing to write home about	4
5D	5. No-no at a fancy restaurant	6
6D	6. Menu caution	5
7D	7. Fancy spread	4
8D	8. Historic barrier breaker, for short	3
9D	9. Ingredient in a John Daly cocktail	7
10D	10. Worries around the clock, perhaps	10
11D	11. Bratlings	4
12D	12. Baking entrepreneur Wally	4
13D	13. ___ plan	4
14D	19. Like a binge watcher, say	6
15D	21. Uncommon notes	4
16D	25. Roald Dahl title character	5
17D	27. Is thick	10
18D	28. St. ___ College (school name in Indiana, Maryland and California)	5
19D	29. Incomplete part of a contract	10
20D	30. Not neat	10
21D	32. Fill for a grill	5
22D	33. Juicy news alert	9
23D	35. Annexed land of 2014	6
24D	38. Speeds through the Downs, say	7
25D	39. Verdant	4
26D	41. Autumn shade	6
27D	43. They're raised on farms	5
28D	45. Texting alternative?	4
29D	46. Woman's name that becomes another woman's name if you switch the first and third letters	4
30D	47. Mirrored	4
31D	48. Firm leaders, for short	4
32D	49. Rush home?	4
33D	51. Body builder?	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. Things seen that aren't there"

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

Here's how to solve it:

This could be something that the intermediate photograph (or photographic record) that contains information for reproducing a three-dimensional image by holography
Words that mean the same thing: hologram, holograph
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: HOLOGRAMS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. "You and me both""

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: ICANRELATE

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Gave much less than 100%"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: PHONEDITIN

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Nothing to write home about"

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: SOSO

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. No-no at a fancy restaurant"

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: TSHIRT

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Menu caution"

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 having an agreeably pungent taste
Words that mean the same thing: gamy, hot, blue
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: SPICY

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Fancy spread"

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 liver or meat or fowl finely minced or ground and variously seasoned
Words that mean the same thing: crown, poll
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: PATE

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Historic barrier breaker, for short"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: SST

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Ingredient in a John Daly cocktail"

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: ICEDTEA

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Worries around the clock, perhaps"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: LOSESSLEEP

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Bratlings"

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 (folklore) fairies that are somewhat mischievous
Words that mean the same thing: brownie, pixie, hob
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: IMPS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Baking entrepreneur Wally"

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 hebrew shepherd and minor prophet
Words that mean the same thing: Book of Amos
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: AMOS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. ___ plan"

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 collection of facts from which conclusions may be drawn
Words that mean the same thing: data point, information, datum
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: DATA

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "19. Like a binge watcher, say"

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 fasten with a hook
Words that mean the same thing: surcharge, snare, hooklike
The opposite would be: unhook, undercharge
Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
Ready for the answer? Click here!

The answer is: HOOKED

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "21. Uncommon notes"

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 cardinal number that is the sum of one and one or a numeral representing this number
Words that mean the same thing: II, deuce, two
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: TWOS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "25. Roald Dahl title character"

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 stuart king of scotland who married a daughter of henry vii; when england and france went to war in 1513 he invaded england and died in defeat at flodden (1473-1513)
Words that mean the same thing: James I, James II, 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: JAMES

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "27. Is thick"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: HASNTACLUE

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "28. St. ___ College (school name in Indiana, Maryland and California)"

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 mother of jesus; christians refer to her as the virgin mary; she is especially honored by roman catholics
Words that mean the same thing: The Virgin, Mary, Virgin Mary
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: MARYS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "29. Incomplete part of a contract"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: DOTTEDLINE

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "30. Not neat"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: ONTHEROCKS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "32. Fill for a grill"

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 fossil fuel consisting of carbonized vegetable matter deposited in the carboniferous period
Words that mean the same thing: ember, coal, char
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: COALS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "33. Juicy news alert"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

The answer is: GUESSWHAT

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "35. Annexed land of 2014"

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 ukrainian peninsula between the black sea and the sea of azov
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: CRIMEA

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "38. Speeds through the Downs, say"

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 fast gait of a horse; a two-beat stride during which all four legs are off the ground simultaneously
Words that mean the same thing: gallop, extend
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: GALLOPS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "39. Verdant"

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

Here's how to solve it:

This could be something that a person who drinks alcohol to excess habitually
Words that mean the same thing: exuberant, profuse, lavish
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: LUSH

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "41. Autumn shade"

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 reddish brown homespun fabric
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: RUSSET

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "43. They're raised on farms"

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 outlying farm building for storing grain or animal feed and housing farm animals
Words that mean the same thing: barn, b
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: BARNS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "45. Texting alternative?"

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: OTOH

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "46. Woman's name that becomes another woman's name if you switch the first and third letters"

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: RONA

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "47. Mirrored"

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 imitate uncritically and in every aspect
Words that mean the same thing: caricature, ape
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: APED

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "48. Firm leaders, for short"

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

Here's how to solve it:

This could be something that the corporate executive responsible for the operations of the firm; reports to a board of directors; may appoint other managers (including a president)
Words that mean the same thing: chief executive officer, CEO, chief operating officer
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: CEOS

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "49. Rush home?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

This could be something that a social club for male undergraduates
Words that mean the same thing: fraternity
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: FRAT

Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "51. Body builder?"

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 (biochemistry) a long linear polymer found in the nucleus of a cell and formed from nucleotides and shaped like a double helix; associated with the transmission of genetic information
Words that mean the same thing: desoxyribonucleic acid, deoxyribonucleic 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: DNA

Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category	Number of Clues	Percentage
General Knowledge	57	81.4%
Abbreviation	4	5.7%
Short Answer	4	5.7%
History	2	2.9%
Sports	1	1.4%
Geography	1	1.4%
Celebrity/Entertainment	1	1.4%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric	Value
Across Clues	37
Down Clues	33
Total Clues	70
Average Answer Length	5.6 letters
Shortest Answer	3 letters
Longest Answer	10 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 Saturday, and these puzzles are usually moderate level
Most clues today are about general knowledge
The average word today has about 5 letters
Remember: It's okay to take breaks and come back later with fresh eyes!
Ask someone for help if you need it - crosswords are more fun with friends!

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

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

Last Updated: September 28, 2025 at 03:09 AM

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