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Tuesday, August 26, 2025

April 10, 2024 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Wednesday, April 10, 2024

Difficulty Level: Medium Tuesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 76 (35 Across, 41 Down)

Average Word Length: 4.9 letters

Master Today's Across: NYT Wednesday Puzzle April 10, 2024

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Response to "Have a nice day!" 6
2A 7. Cribs 4
3A 11. Spell that's "broken" by 23-Across 3
4A 14. Hit song from "Flashdance" 6
5A 15. Outside, as a pitch 4
6A 16. Place for a tiny hammer 3
7A 17. Popular Italian entree, informally 11
8A 19. Al Jolson's actual first name 3
9A 20. "La Cage ___ Folles" 3
10A 21. Traditional crustless fruit pie 10
11A 23. First U.S. secretary of war 9
12A 25. "This looks bad for me!" 7
13A 28. Fatty acid compound 6
14A 32. Beginner gamers, in lingo 5
15A 33. Kiln for hops 4
16A 36. When doubled, beanie topper 3
17A 37. Spell that's "broken" by 59-Across 5
18A 38. Play date participant 3
19A 39. Spell that's "broken" by 17-Across 5
20A 41. Device first deployed in the U.S. by Chemical Bank (1969) 3
21A 42. Actress Palmer with a reduplicative name 4
22A 43. Feeder of the iliac arteries 5
23A 44. Shepherd formerly of "The View" 6
24A 47. Fees that may be based on cost-per-click 7
25A 49. Container in a kid's backpack 9
26A 52. Crayola color that debuted in 1972 10
27A 55. Make public 3
28A 58. Mess up 3
29A 59. Intensive study program 11
30A 62. Sheltered side 3
31A 63. Shock, in a way 4
32A 64. Word derived from the Arabic for "lot" 6
33A 65. Spell that's "broken" by 49-Across 3
34A 66. Not delete 4
35A 67. Killed it at open mic night, say 6

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. Response to "Have a nice day!""

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: YOUTOO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "7. Cribs"

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 number of sheets of paper fastened together along one edge
  • Words that mean the same thing: launching pad, aggrandize, footslog
  • 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: PADS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "11. Spell that's "broken" by 23-Across"

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 an evil spell
  • Words that mean the same thing: witch, curse, glamour
  • 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: HEX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. Hit song from "Flashdance""

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an insane person
  • Words that mean the same thing: lunatic, maniacal, madman
  • 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: MANIAC

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "15. Outside, as a pitch"

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 not present; having left
  • Words that mean the same thing: aside, off, by
  • The opposite would be: home
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AWAY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "16. Place for a tiny hammer"

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 the sense organ for hearing and equilibrium
  • Words that mean the same thing: capitulum, spike, pinna
  • 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: EAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "17. Popular Italian entree, informally"

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: CHICKENPARM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "19. Al Jolson's actual first name"

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: ASA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "20. "La Cage ___ Folles""

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: AUX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "21. Traditional crustless fruit pie"

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: APPLEBETTY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "23. First U.S. secretary of war"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a hard 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: HENRYKNOX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "25. "This looks bad for me!""

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: IMTOAST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "28. Fatty acid compound"

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: OLEATE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "32. Beginner gamers, in lingo"

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

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: NOOBS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "33. Kiln for hops"

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 kiln for drying hops
  • 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: OAST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "36. When doubled, beanie topper"

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 disparaging term for a british person
  • Words that mean the same thing: pommy
  • 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: POM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "37. Spell that's "broken" by 59-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 profane or obscene expression usually of surprise or anger
  • Words that mean the same thing: scourge, hex, maledict
  • The opposite would be: bless, communicate
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CURSE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "38. Play date participant"

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: add up, tot up, add
  • 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 19 Across: "39. Spell that's "broken" by 17-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 attractiveness that interests or pleases or stimulates
  • Words that mean the same thing: enamor, entrance, enamour
  • 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: CHARM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "41. Device first deployed in the U.S. by Chemical Bank (1969)"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a unit of pressure: the pressure that will support a column of mercury 760 mm high at sea level and 0 degrees centigrade
  • Words that mean the same thing: automated teller, automatic teller machine, automatic teller
  • 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: ATM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "42. Actress Palmer with a reduplicative name"

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: KEKE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "43. Feeder of the iliac arteries"

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 large trunk artery that carries blood from the left ventricle of the heart to branch arteries
  • 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: AORTA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "44. Shepherd formerly of "The View""

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: SHERRI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "47. Fees that may be based on cost-per-click"

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: ADRATES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "49. Container in a kid's backpack"

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: PENCILBOX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "52. Crayola color that debuted in 1972"

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: HOTMAGENTA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "55. Make public"

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 mixture of gases (especially oxygen) required for breathing; the stuff that the wind consists of
  • Words that mean the same thing: ventilate, gentle wind, publicise
  • 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: AIR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "58. Mess up"

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 to make a mistake or be incorrect
  • Words that mean the same thing: stray, slip, mistake
  • 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: ERR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "59. Intensive study program"

Quick Info: This answer has 11 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: CRASHCOURSE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "62. Sheltered side"

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 filmmaker whose works explore the richness of black culture in america (born in 1957)
  • Words that mean the same thing: Robert Edward Lee, Richard Henry Lee, downwind
  • The opposite would be: windward
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LEE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "63. Shock, in a way"

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: TASE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "64. Word derived from the Arabic for "lot""

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 (islam) the will of allah
  • Words that mean the same thing: kismat
  • 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: KISMET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "65. Spell that's "broken" by 49-Across"

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 common venereal disease caused by the treponema pallidum spirochete; symptoms change through progressive stages; can be congenital (transmitted through the placenta)
  • Words that mean the same thing: lues, syph, lues venerea
  • 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: POX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "66. Not delete"

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 printing: cancel, as of a correction or deletion
  • 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: STET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "67. Killed it at open mic night, 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 kill intentionally and with premeditation
  • Words that mean the same thing: remove, off, slay
  • 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: SLAYED

    Great job if you got it right!

Solve the Down: NYT Wednesday Puzzle April 10, 2024

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Org. often referred to by its first letter 4
2D 2. Island that's home to a state capital 4
3D 3. What macOS is based on 4
4D 4. Game piece? 3
5D 5. Cabinet material 3
6D 6. Loads 6
7D 7. Father, in regional lingo 5
8D 8. ___ in the park 5
9D 9. Be afraid to 7
10D 10. Semiotician's interest 6
11D 11. Recipe verb 4
12D 12. Where runway 9 is always oriented at an airport 4
13D 13. … Whiskey, ___, Yankee … 4
14D 18. Iconic fund-raising "thank you" gift 7
15D 22. PC program file extension 3
16D 23. Canterbury cooktops 4
17D 24. Gently acclimate, with "in" 4
18D 25. Atahualpa's subjects 5
19D 26. Communicate silently, in a way 5
20D 27. Crooner Mel 5
21D 29. In a bicoastal relationship, say 5
22D 30. Linzer ___ (pastry) 5
23D 31. Heroines in novels by Flaubert and Austen 5
24D 34. Fine and dandy 3
25D 35. Ninja's forte 7
26D 39. Dear, in Italian 4
27D 40. The Cardiff Giant, for one 4
28D 42. 1965 film starring George Segal that was set in a P.O.W. camp 7
29D 45. Tach measure 3
30D 46. Flinches or smiles, e.g. 6
31D 48. Winners over the Yanks in the 2001 World Series 6
32D 50. Stop 5
33D 51. Like crown jewels 5
34D 52. Give a boost 4
35D 53. Popular name for a tuxedo cat 4
36D 54. Prehistoric predator, informally 4
37D 55. "Gee, I Wish I Was Back in the ___" (song from "White Christmas") 4
38D 56. "Mm-hmm" 4
39D 57. No longer working: Abbr. 4
40D 60. How John D. Rockefeller made his money 3
41D 61. Letters on a Forever stamp 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. Org. often referred to by its first letter"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 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: YMCA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Island that's home to a state capital"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an island of central hawaii (between molokai and kauai); the chief island of the state
  • Words that mean the same thing: Oahu Island
  • 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: OAHU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. What macOS is based on"

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 trademark for a powerful operating system
  • Words that mean the same thing: UNIX system, UNIX operating system
  • 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: UNIX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Game piece?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a local and habitual twitching especially in the face
  • 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: TIC

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Cabinet material"

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 hard durable wood of any oak; used especially for furniture and flooring
  • Words that mean the same thing: oak tree
  • 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: OAK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Loads"

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 large body of water constituting a principal part of the hydrosphere
  • Words that mean the same thing: ocean, sea
  • 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: OCEANS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Father, in regional lingo"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 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: PAPPY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. ___ in the park"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 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: AWALK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Be afraid to"

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: DARENOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Semiotician's interest"

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 an arbitrary sign (written or printed) that has acquired a conventional significance
  • Words that mean the same thing: symbolic representation, symbolization, symbolisation
  • 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: SYMBOL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Recipe verb"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a form of energy that is transferred by a difference in temperature
  • Words that mean the same thing: wake, hotness, heating plant
  • The opposite would be: cool, coldness
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HEAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Where runway 9 is always oriented at an airport"

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 cardinal compass point that is at 90 degrees
  • Words that mean the same thing: Orient, E, eastern United States
  • The opposite would be: west
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EAST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. … Whiskey, ___, Yankee …"

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: XRAY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "18. Iconic fund-raising "thank you" gift"

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: NPRTOTE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "22. PC program file extension"

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: EXE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "23. Canterbury cooktops"

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 (folklore) a small grotesque supernatural creature that makes trouble for human beings
  • Words that mean the same thing: pixie, hobgoblin, goblin
  • 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: HOBS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "24. Gently acclimate, with "in""

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 freedom from difficulty or hardship or effort
  • Words that mean the same thing: informality, repose, comfort
  • The opposite would be: difficulty
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EASE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "25. Atahualpa's subjects"

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 ruler of the incas (or a member of his family)
  • Words that mean the same thing: Incan, Inca, Inka
  • 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: INCAS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "26. Communicate silently, in a way"

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 opening through which food is taken in and vocalizations emerge
  • Words that mean the same thing: back talk, oral fissure, utter
  • 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: MOUTH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "27. Crooner Mel"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 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: TORME

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "29. In a bicoastal relationship, say"

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 remote and separate physically or socially; ; - w.h.hudson
  • Words that mean the same thing: isolated, aside, asunder
  • 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: APART

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "30. Linzer ___ (pastry)"

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 rich cake usually covered with cream and fruit or nuts; originated in austria
  • 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: TORTE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "31. Heroines in novels by Flaubert and Austen"

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

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: EMMAS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "34. Fine and dandy"

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: AOK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "35. Ninja's forte"

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 avoiding detection by moving carefully
  • Words that mean the same thing: stealing
  • 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: STEALTH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "39. Dear, in Italian"

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: CARO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "40. The Cardiff Giant, for one"

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 intended to deceive; deliberate trickery intended to gain an advantage
  • Words that mean the same thing: put-on, dupery, fraudulence
  • 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: HOAX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "42. 1965 film starring George Segal that was set in a P.O.W. camp"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 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: KINGRAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "45. Tach measure"

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 rate of revolution of a motor
  • Words that mean the same thing: revolutions per minute, rev
  • 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: RPM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "46. Flinches or smiles, e.g."

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 show a response or a reaction to something
  • Words that mean the same thing: respond, oppose, react
  • 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: REACTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "48. Winners over the Yanks in the 2001 World Series"

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: DBACKS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "50. Stop"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that (`cease' is a noun only in the phrase `without cease') end
  • Words that mean the same thing: end, give up, quit
  • The opposite would be: continue, begin
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CEASE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "51. Like crown jewels"

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 small picture inserted within the bounds or a larger one
  • Words that mean the same thing: gusset, insert
  • 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: INSET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "52. Give a boost"

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 activity of contributing to the fulfillment of a need or furtherance of an effort or purpose
  • Words that mean the same thing: assist, assistance, aid
  • 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: HELP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "53. Popular name for a tuxedo cat"

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 chocolate cookie with white cream filling
  • Words that mean the same thing: oreo cookie
  • 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: OREO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "54. Prehistoric predator, 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: TREX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "55. "Gee, I Wish I Was Back in the ___" (song from "White Christmas")"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a permanent organization of the military land forces of a nation or state
  • Words that mean the same thing: USA, United States Army, ground forces
  • 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: ARMY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Down: "56. "Mm-hmm""

Quick Info: This answer has 4 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: ISEE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Down: "57. No longer working: 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: RETD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 40 Down: "60. How John D. Rockefeller made his money"

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 slippery or viscous liquid or liquefiable substance not miscible with water
  • Words that mean the same thing: fossil oil, anoint, oil color
  • 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: OIL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 41 Down: "61. Letters on a Forever stamp"

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 north american republic containing 50 states - 48 conterminous states in north america plus alaska in northwest north america and the hawaiian islands in the pacific ocean; achieved independence in 1776
  • Words that mean the same thing: United States, United States Army, the States
  • 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: USA

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 48 63.2%
Short Answer 16 21.1%
Music 2 2.6%
Sports 2 2.6%
Celebrity/Entertainment 2 2.6%
History 1 1.3%
Science/Technology 1 1.3%
Geography 1 1.3%
Food & Drink 1 1.3%
Literature 1 1.3%
Abbreviation 1 1.3%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 35
Down Clues 41
Total Clues 76
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 Wednesday, 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!

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: August 26, 2025 at 01:33 PM

Thursday, September 25, 2025

NYT Down Clues Answers September 25, 2025 - All 37 Vertical Solutions & Expert Hints

NYT Crossword Down September 25, 2025: All 37 Vertical Answers & Strategic Tips

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 37 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: July 31 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | June 28 2022 NYT Clues Solutions | May 13 2024 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for September 25, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Thursday, September 25, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date September 25, 2025
Day of Week Thursday
Total Down Clues 37 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Challenging

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 37 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. Blast loudly
2 Down 2. Anaheim ballplayers
3 Down 3. String of wins or losses
4 Down 4. Studs
5 Down 5. Apple shop
6 Down 6. Spell out
7 Down 7. Replace the sod of
8 Down 8. Programs in advance
9 Down 9. Pastors' concerns
10 Down 10. Possibility
11 Down 11. Standard music equipment
12 Down 12. Scratch and save
13 Down 13. Carved part of a piece of jewelry
14 Down 21. Terrible storm
15 Down 22. Sees red
16 Down 25. Replace on the mound
17 Down 26. Traveler's aid, familiarly
18 Down 27. Storage item on some ocean voyages
19 Down 29. Stop slouching
20 Down 30. Shoe polish brand
21 Down 31. Determined
22 Down 33. Strain's partner
23 Down 34. Freeze-___
24 Down 35. Enter into a plot?
25 Down 39. Show that you think something isn't important
26 Down 40. The Chicago Bulls had a pair of them in the 1990s
27 Down 43. Hors d'oeuvre servers, maybe
28 Down 45. Shipping weight units
29 Down 47. Stop's opposite
30 Down 49. Alaska native
31 Down 52. Incubator occupant in a neonatal unit
32 Down 53. Crucial difficulty to get through
33 Down 54. Neophyte
34 Down 55. Shipwreck locales, often
35 Down 56. Headgear for a bicyclist
36 Down 57. Step with confidence
37 Down 58. Beat in competition

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. Blast loudly"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: B___E
  • Similar words: honk, blaring
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a loud harsh or strident noise
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BLARE


2 Down: "2. Anaheim ballplayers"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A____S
  • Similar words: holy person, Angel Falls
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: spiritual being attendant upon God
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ANGELS


3 Down: "3. String of wins or losses"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: S____K
  • Similar words: blotch, run
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an unbroken series of events
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STREAK


4 Down: "4. Studs"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S_______S
  • Similar words: stallion, entire
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: uncastrated adult male horse
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STALLIONS


5 Down: "5. Apple shop"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: A______E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer APPSTORE


6 Down: "6. Spell out"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: S_____Y
  • Similar words: set, limit
  • Opposite of: generalize
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SPECIFY


7 Down: "7. Replace the sod of"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'F'
  • Word pattern: R____F
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RETURF


8 Down: "8. Programs in advance"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: P_____S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PRESETS


9 Down: "9. Pastors' concerns"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: P______S
  • Similar words: parish
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a local church community
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PARISHES


10 Down: "10. Possibility"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: P_______L
  • Similar words: potential drop, potentiality
  • Opposite of: actual
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the inherent capacity for coming into being
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer POTENTIAL


11 Down: "11. Standard music equipment"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: S____O
  • Similar words: two-channel, stereo system
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STEREO


12 Down: "12. Scratch and save"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: S____P
  • Similar words: skimp, stint
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: subsist on a meager allowance
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SCRIMP


13 Down: "13. Carved part of a piece of jewelry"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: C___O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CAMEO


14 Down: "21. Terrible storm"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: T_____T
  • Similar words: storm
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a violent commotion or disturbance
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TEMPEST


15 Down: "22. Sees red"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S_____S
  • Similar words: seethe, boil
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: be noisy with activity
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SEETHES


16 Down: "25. Replace on the mound"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: R_____E
  • Similar words: lighten, free
  • Opposite of: enforce
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: provide physical relief
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RELIEVE


17 Down: "26. Traveler's aid, familiarly"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: T_____A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TRIPLEA


18 Down: "27. Storage item on some ocean voyages"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 12 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: S__________K
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STEAMERTRUNK


19 Down: "29. Stop slouching"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 12 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: S__________P
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STRAIGHTENUP


20 Down: "30. Shoe polish brand"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: S_____A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SHINOLA


21 Down: "31. Determined"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 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 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DEADSET


22 Down: "33. Strain's partner"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S____S
  • Similar words: emphasis, accentuate
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STRESS


23 Down: "34. Freeze-___"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: F___E
  • Similar words: physique, entrap
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the framework for a pair of eyeglasses
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FRAME


24 Down: "35. Enter into a plot?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'B'
  • Word pattern: E____B
  • Similar words: inter, inhume
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: place in a grave or tomb
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ENTOMB


25 Down: "39. Show that you think something isn't important"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'F'
  • Word pattern: S________F
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SHRUGITOFF


26 Down: "40. The Chicago Bulls had a pair of them in the 1990s"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: T________S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer THREEPEATS


27 Down: "43. Hors d'oeuvre servers, maybe"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: H_______S
  • Similar words: air hostess, hostess
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a woman host
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HOSTESSES


28 Down: "45. Shipping weight units"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S_______S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SHORTTONS


29 Down: "47. Stop's opposite"

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: set about, commencement
  • Opposite of: end
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the beginning of anything
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer START


30 Down: "49. Alaska native"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: A___T
  • Similar words: Aleutian
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ALEUT


31 Down: "52. Incubator occupant in a neonatal unit"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: I____T
  • Similar words: babe, baby
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer INFANT


32 Down: "53. Crucial difficulty to get through"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: C____S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an unstable situation of extreme danger or difficulty
  • This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CRISIS


33 Down: "54. Neophyte"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: N____E
  • Similar words: neophyte, newcomer
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: any new participant in some activity
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NEWBIE


34 Down: "55. Shipwreck locales, often"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S____S
  • Similar words: shoal, shallow
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SHOALS


35 Down: "56. Headgear for a bicyclist"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: H____T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: armor plate that protects the head
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HELMET


36 Down: "57. Step with confidence"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: S____E
  • Similar words: footstep, pace
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a step in walking or running
  • This is Down clue number 36

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STRIDE


37 Down: "58. Beat in competition"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: B____D
  • Similar words: trump, best
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: get the better of
  • This is Down clue number 37

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BESTED

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 37 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: September 25, 2025 at 05:13 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, September 25 2025 down clues