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December 11, 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Wednesday, December 11, 2019

Difficulty Level: Moderate Wednesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 76 (37 Across, 39 Down)

Average Word Length: 5.0 letters

December 11, 2019 NYT Clues Solutions

December 11, 2019 Across Hints: NYT Wednesday Crossword Answers

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Swear 4
2A 5. "America" begins and ends with this 5
3A 10. Greeting card text, often 4
4A 14. Mother of Castor and Pollux 4
5A 15. Rigel's constellation 5
6A 16. Tolstoy heroine 4
7A 17. Australian wind instrument 10
8A 19. Old story 4
9A 20. Commencement 5
10A 21. Pinochle plays 5
11A 23. It may be checked at a station 3
12A 24. Decorative garden element 12
13A 27. Build up charges 7
14A 30. Impolite onlooker 6
15A 31. ___ interface 4
16A 32. [Like magic!] 4
17A 35. Dot follower 3
18A 36. Cavernous opening 3
19A 37. Petulant 7
20A 39. Sound of a penny dropping? 3
21A 42. Map abbr. before 1991 3
22A 44. Garment in Gujarat 4
23A 45. "Rats!" 4
24A 46. Word of greeting or farewell 6
25A 49. Gently boosted, as someone's ego 7
26A 51. "Grease" song with onomatopoeic lyrics 12
27A 54. Figure on some greeting cards 3
28A 55. Ltr. accompaniers 5
29A 56. How seafood may be shipped 5
30A 60. ___ Blanc, highest of the Alps 4
31A 62. Phrase in an article on grown-up child stars, perhaps ... or a hint to this puzzle's shaded squares 10
32A 64. Clip 4
33A 65. Pandemonium 5
34A 66. Dungeons & Dragons figure 4
35A 67. Locale of Charon's ferry 4
36A 68. Worries 5
37A 69. Travels (about) 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. Swear"

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 to declare or affirm solemnly and formally as true
  • Words that mean the same thing: aver, affirm, avouch
  • The opposite would be: disavow
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AVOW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "5. "America" begins and ends with this"

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 neutral middle vowel; occurs in unstressed syllables
  • Words that mean the same thing: shwa
  • 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: SCHWA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "10. Greeting card text, often"

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 composition written in metrical feet forming rhythmical lines
  • Words that mean the same thing: verse form
  • 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: POEM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. Mother of Castor and Pollux"

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 (greek mythology) a queen of sparta who was raped by zeus who had taken the form of a swan; helen of troy was conceived in the rape of leda
  • 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: LEDA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "15. Rigel's constellation"

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) a giant boeotian hunter who pursued the pleiades and was eventually slain by artemis; was then placed in the sky as a constellation
  • Words that mean the same thing: Hunter
  • 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: ORION

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "16. Tolstoy heroine"

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 former copper coin of pakistan and india
  • 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: ANNA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "17. Australian wind instrument"

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: DIDGERIDOO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "19. Old story"

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 traditional story accepted as history; serves to explain the world view of a people
  • 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: MYTH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "20. Commencement"

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 the beginning or early stages
  • Words that mean the same thing: onslaught, attack, onrush
  • 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: ONSET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "21. Pinochle plays"

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 form of rummy using two decks of cards and four jokers; jokers and deuces are wild; the object is to form groups of the same rank
  • Words that mean the same thing: blend, fuse, canasta
  • 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: MELDS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "23. It may be checked at a station"

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: inunct, fossil oil, crude oil
  • 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 12 Across: "24. Decorative garden element"

Quick Info: This answer has 12 letters. It's a hard clue about science/technology.

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: WATERFEATURE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "27. Build up charges"

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: RUNATAB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "30. Impolite onlooker"

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 viewer who gazes fixedly (often with hostility)
  • 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: STARER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "31. ___ interface"

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 person who makes use of a thing; someone who uses or employs something
  • Words that mean the same thing: substance abuser, drug user, exploiter
  • 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: USER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "32. [Like magic!]"

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 offensive term for an openly homosexual man
  • Words that mean the same thing: pansy, nance, fagot
  • 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: POOF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "35. Dot follower"

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: COM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "36. Cavernous opening"

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 informal terms for the mouth
  • Words that mean the same thing: cakehole, hole, yap
  • 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: MAW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "37. Petulant"

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 very irritable
  • Words that mean the same thing: bristly, splenetic, prickly
  • 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: WASPISH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "39. Sound of a penny dropping?"

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: AHA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "42. Map abbr. before 1991"

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: SSR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "44. Garment in Gujarat"

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 dress worn primarily by hindu women; consists of several yards of light material that is draped around the body
  • Words that mean the same thing: saree
  • 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: SARI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "45. "Rats!""

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 heavy wet snow that is unsuitable for skiing
  • Words that mean the same thing: skank, filth
  • 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: CRUD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "46. Word of greeting or farewell"

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: SHALOM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "49. Gently boosted, as someone's ego"

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 touch lightly and repeatedly, as with brushing motions
  • Words that mean the same thing: stroke
  • 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: STROKED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "51. "Grease" song with onomatopoeic lyrics"

Quick Info: This answer has 12 letters. It's a expert clue about music.

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: WEGOTOGETHER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "54. Figure on some greeting cards"

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 how long something has existed
  • Words that mean the same thing: eld, geezerhood, old age
  • The opposite would be: rejuvenate
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AGE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "55. Ltr. accompaniers"

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: ENCLS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "56. How seafood may be shipped"

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

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: INICE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "60. ___ Blanc, highest of the Alps"

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: MONT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "62. Phrase in an article on grown-up child stars, perhaps ... or a hint to this puzzle's shaded squares"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a expert clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: THENANDNOW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "64. Clip"

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 the rate of moving (especially walking or running)
  • Words that mean the same thing: gait, tread, tempo
  • 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: PACE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "65. Pandemonium"

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 violent and needless disturbance
  • Words that mean the same thing: mayhem
  • 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: HAVOC

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "66. Dungeons & Dragons figure"

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 cruel wicked and inhuman person
  • Words that mean the same thing: devil, fiend, monster
  • 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: OGRE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "67. Locale of Charon's ferry"

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 (greek mythology) a river in hades across which charon carried dead souls
  • Words that mean the same thing: River Styx
  • 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: STYX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Across: "68. Worries"

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 agitation resulting from active worry
  • Words that mean the same thing: stew, brood, sweat
  • 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: STEWS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Across: "69. Travels (about)"

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 an anxiety disorder characterized by chronic free-floating anxiety and such symptoms as tension or sweating or trembling or lightheadedness or irritability etc that has lasted for more than six months
  • Words that mean the same thing: GAD, jazz around, anxiety reaction
  • 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: GADS

    Great job if you got it right!

December 11, 2019 Down Hints: NYT Wednesday Crossword Guide

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Brand of shoes and handbags 4
2D 2. Target for a phlebotomist 4
3D 3. Racetrack ratio 4
4D 4. Engage in conflict 7
5D 5. Frat.'s counterpart 3
6D 6. Mafia don, for one 9
7D 7. One who's not "it" 5
8D 8. Penner of the line "Language is wine upon the lips" 5
9D 9. Some terminals 6
10D 10. Brand of cooking spray 3
11D 11. Line heard from the starting line 10
12D 12. Unabridged 6
13D 13. "Das Lied von der Erde" composer 6
14D 18. "L'___ c'est moi" (declaration of Louis XIV) 4
15D 22. Nickname for Louis Armstrong 5
16D 25. Fiesta finger food 4
17D 26. Confucian path to enlightenment 3
18D 27. Ingredient in a Bahama Mama 3
19D 28. Its members are represented by stars 3
20D 29. Reuters or Bloomberg 10
21D 33. Cost-controlling W.W. II org. 3
22D 34. Winter milestone 9
23D 37. Put pen to paper 5
24D 38. Wielders of the dark side of the Force 4
25D 40. Tint 3
26D 41. Contribute 3
27D 43. ___-mo 3
28D 45. Carnival fare on a stick 7
29D 46. Overwhelms 6
30D 47. Billy 6
31D 48. Their days are numbered 6
32D 50. Steed stopper 4
33D 52. Onetime instant-messaging app 5
34D 53. École attendee 5
35D 57. Female role in "Young Frankenstein" 4
36D 58. Thin rope 4
37D 59. Members of a flock 4
38D 61. It borders Mex. 3
39D 63. Window boxes, for short 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. Brand of shoes and handbags"

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: ALDO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Target for a phlebotomist"

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 blood vessel that carries blood from the capillaries toward the heart
  • Words that mean the same thing: mineral vein, vena, nervure
  • 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: VEIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Racetrack ratio"

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 likelihood of a thing occurring rather than not occurring
  • Words that mean the same thing: betting odds
  • 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: ODDS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Engage in conflict"

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: WAGEWAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Frat.'s counterpart"

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: SOR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Mafia don, for one"

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: CRIMEBOSS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. One who's not "it""

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: HIDER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Penner of the line "Language is wine upon the lips""

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 english author whose work used such techniques as stream of consciousness and the interior monologue; prominent member of the bloomsbury group (1882-1941)
  • Words that mean the same thing: Virginia Woolf, Adeline Virginia Stephen Woolf
  • 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: WOOLF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Some terminals"

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 positively charged electrode by which electrons leave an electrical device
  • Words that mean the same thing: anode
  • The opposite would be: cathode
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ANODES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Brand of cooking spray"

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: PAM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Line heard from the starting line"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a expert clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ONYOURMARK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Unabridged"

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 uncastrated adult male horse
  • Words that mean the same thing: total, stallion, full
  • 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: ENTIRE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. "Das Lied von der Erde" composer"

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 austrian composer and conductor (1860-1911)
  • Words that mean the same thing: Gustav Mahler
  • 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: MAHLER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "18. "L'___ c'est moi" (declaration of Louis XIV)"

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: ETAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "22. Nickname for Louis Armstrong"

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: SATCH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "25. Fiesta finger food"

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 the thin fibrous bark of the paper mulberry and pipturus albidus
  • Words that mean the same thing: tapa bark, tappa, tappa bark
  • 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: TAPA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "26. Confucian path to enlightenment"

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 adherent of any branch of taoism
  • Words that mean the same thing: Taoist
  • 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: TAO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "27. Ingredient in a Bahama Mama"

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 liquor distilled from fermented molasses
  • Words that mean the same thing: rummy, queer, funny
  • 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: RUM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "28. Its members are represented by stars"

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

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: U.S.A., United States, America
  • 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!

Clue 20 Down: "29. Reuters or Bloomberg"

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: NEWSAGENCY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "33. Cost-controlling W.W. II org."

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: OPA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "34. Winter milestone"

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: FIRSTSNOW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "37. Put pen to paper"

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 produce a literary work
  • Words that mean the same thing: save, compose, drop a line
  • 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: WROTE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "38. Wielders of the dark side of the Force"

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: SITH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "40. Tint"

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 quality of a color as determined by its dominant wavelength
  • Words that mean the same thing: imbue, chromaticity
  • 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: HUE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "41. Contribute"

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 condition (mostly in boys) characterized by behavioral and learning disorders
  • Words that mean the same thing: tally, total, minimal brain dysfunction
  • The opposite would be: subtract, take away
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ADD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "43. ___-mo"

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: SLO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "45. Carnival fare on a stick"

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: CORNDOG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "46. Overwhelms"

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 low land that is seasonally flooded; has more woody plants than a marsh and better drainage than a bog
  • Words that mean the same thing: flood, inundate, drench
  • 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: SWAMPS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "47. Billy"

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: HEGOAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "48. Their days are numbered"

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 one of the twelve divisions of the calendar year
  • Words that mean the same thing: month, calendar month
  • 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: MONTHS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "50. Steed stopper"

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 one of a pair of long straps (usually connected to the bit or the headpiece) used to control a horse
  • Words that mean the same thing: draw rein, harness, rein in
  • 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: REIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "52. Onetime instant-messaging app"

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: GCHAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "53. École attendee"

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: ELEVE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "57. Female role in "Young Frankenstein""

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 any tree or shrub of the genus inga having pinnate leaves and showy usually white flowers; cultivated as ornamentals
  • 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: INGA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "58. Thin rope"

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 line made of twisted fibers or threads
  • Words that mean the same thing: electric cord, corduroy
  • 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: CORD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "59. Members of a flock"

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 member of a people living in southern benin and togo and southeastern ghana
  • Words that mean the same thing: ewe, Ewe
  • 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: EWES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Down: "61. It borders Mex."

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: TEX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Down: "63. Window boxes, for short"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a radioactive element of the actinide series; found in uranium ores
  • Words that mean the same thing: AC, atomic number 89, Ac
  • The opposite would be: direct current
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACS

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 52 68.4%
Short Answer 14 18.4%
Celebrity/Entertainment 3 3.9%
Abbreviation 2 2.6%
Music 2 2.6%
Food & Drink 2 2.6%
Science/Technology 1 1.3%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 37
Down Clues 39
Total Clues 76
Average Answer Length 5.0 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 12 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 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 10:39 AM

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Saturday, December 20, 2025

NYT Down Today December 20, 2025: Complete Vertical Clues Walkthrough

NYT Down Crossword December 20, 2025 - Master All 32 Top-to-Bottom Clues

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 32 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: February 02 2022 NYT Clues Solutions | May 12 2021 NYT Clues Solutions | NYT Mini Today October 12 2025 Complete |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for December 20, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Saturday, December 20, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date December 20, 2025
Day of Week Saturday
Total Down Clues 32 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Medium

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 32 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. Sworn
2 Down 2. City, lake or canton de Suisse
3 Down 3. Tip on quite a few bucks?
4 Down 4. Extremely rare, facetiously
5 Down 5. Act bearishly
6 Down 6. What might come with some baggage?
7 Down 7. Dogsbody
8 Down 8. Io or luna
9 Down 9. When repeated, a small treat
10 Down 10. Shamans, typically
11 Down 11. Claps back
12 Down 12. Mardi Gras parading societies
13 Down 14. Tech job
14 Down 16. Bills first introduced in 1861
15 Down 18. Currency of Serbia
16 Down 22. Exercise almost to a point of pain
17 Down 24. Van Gogh retreat in southern France
18 Down 26. Significant spread
19 Down 28. Post-show celebration
20 Down 30. Some spa treatments
21 Down 31. Escapade
22 Down 32. Agree to, in a way
23 Down 33. Bath ___
24 Down 34. Fashions
25 Down 35. Clown locale
26 Down 37. Futuristic sci-fi classic with tales set in 2021 and 2029
27 Down 38. Field of the annual César Awards
28 Down 39. One of the Wayans brothers
29 Down 42. Day at the movies
30 Down 45. Like some costs
31 Down 46. Many a drop-down
32 Down 48. ___ T

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. Sworn"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: A____D
  • Similar words: affirm, swan
  • Opposite of: disavow
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: to declare or affirm solemnly and formally as true
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AVOWED

2 Down: "2. City, lake or canton de Suisse"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: G____E
  • Similar words: Genf, Geneva
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GENEVE

3 Down: "3. Tip on quite a few bucks?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: A____R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: deciduous horn of a member of the deer family
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ANTLER

4 Down: "4. Extremely rare, facetiously"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 11 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'G'
  • Word pattern: S_________G
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STILLMOOING

5 Down: "5. Act bearishly"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: S__L
  • Similar words: betray, trade
  • Opposite of: buy
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the activity of persuading someone to buy
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SELL

6 Down: "6. What might come with some baggage?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'G'
  • Word pattern: I___G
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IDTAG

7 Down: "7. Dogsbody"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: E_______Y
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ERRANDBOY

8 Down: "8. Io or luna"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'H'
  • Word pattern: M__H
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MOTH

9 Down: "9. When repeated, a small treat"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BON

10 Down: "10. Shamans, typically"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A______S
  • Similar words: animist
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: one who accepts the doctrine of animism
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ANIMISTS

11 Down: "11. Claps back"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: R_____S
  • Similar words: repay, comeback
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RETORTS

12 Down: "12. Mardi Gras parading societies"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: K____S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KREWES

13 Down: "14. Tech job"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: C___R
  • Similar words: programmer
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a person who designs and writes and tests computer programs
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CODER

14 Down: "16. Bills first introduced in 1861"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: F___S
  • Similar words: quintet, 5
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FIVES

15 Down: "18. Currency of Serbia"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: D___R
  • Similar words: Jordanian dinar, Iranian dinar
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: 100 dinars equal 1 rial in Iran
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DINAR

16 Down: "22. Exercise almost to a point of pain"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 11 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: F_________N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FEELTHEBURN

17 Down: "24. Van Gogh retreat in southern France"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A___S
  • Similar words: earnest money
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: money given by a buyer to a seller to bind a contract
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ARLES

18 Down: "26. Significant spread"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: F___T
  • Similar words: junket, fiesta
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a ceremonial dinner party for many people
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FEAST

19 Down: "28. Post-show celebration"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: C_______Y
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CASTPARTY

20 Down: "30. Some spa treatments"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: S______E
  • Similar words: skin care
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: care for the skin
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SKINCARE

21 Down: "31. Escapade"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: C___R
  • Similar words: put-on, capriole
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: any of numerous plants of the genus Capparis
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CAPER

22 Down: "32. Agree to, in a way"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: S_____N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SHAKEON

23 Down: "33. Bath ___"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S___S
  • Similar words: salt, table salt
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SALTS

24 Down: "34. Fashions"

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
  • Similar words: foxiness, guile
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the skilled practice of a practical occupation
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CRAFTS

25 Down: "35. Clown locale"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: R___O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an exhibition of cowboy skills
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RODEO

26 Down: "37. Futuristic sci-fi classic with tales set in 2021 and 2029"

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
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IROBOT

27 Down: "38. Field of the annual César Awards"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: C____A
  • Similar words: film, movie theatre
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a medium that disseminates moving pictures
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CINEMA

28 Down: "39. One of the Wayans brothers"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: K____N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KEENEN

29 Down: "42. Day at the movies"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: D___S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: (Greek mythology) wife of Nereus and mother of the Nereids
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DORIS

30 Down: "45. Like some costs"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: S__K
  • Similar words: drop, go down
  • Opposite of: float
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: fall or descend to a lower place or level
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SUNK

31 Down: "46. Many a drop-down"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'U'
  • Word pattern: M__U
  • Similar words: bill of fare, carte
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a list of dishes available at a restaurant
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MENU

32 Down: "48. ___ T"

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 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TOA

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 32 Down clues.

Are Down clues easier than Across clues?

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

How do Down clues interact with Across clues?

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

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

Last Updated: December 20, 2025 at 05:13 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, December 20 2025 down clues

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