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Thursday, September 4, 2025

February 07, 2023 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Tuesday, February 07, 2023

Difficulty Level: Medium Tuesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 78 (37 Across, 41 Down)

Average Word Length: 4.8 letters

Across Clues Explained - Tuesday NYT Crossword February 07, 2023

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Donations 4
2A 5. Think ahead 4
3A 9. Willing to enter a lion's den, maybe 5
4A 14. Organizer of a couples cruise? 4
5A 15. Greek goddess of marriage 4
6A 16. Justice Ruth ___ Ginsburg 5
7A 17. Fraternity party attire that is traditionally Roman, not Greek 4
8A 18. Buchanan-Duck-Duke 10
9A 20. Fishtail, maybe 4
10A 21. Confront 4
11A 22. Ending with plug or trade 3
12A 23. Snack-motivated Great Dane of toons 5
13A 26. Under the most unfavorable circumstances 7
14A 29. Paris Métro-BART-London Underground 12
15A 32. "Great" primate 3
16A 33. Bona fide 4
17A 34. "Well, ___ your heart!" 5
18A 38. Info on a trading card 4
19A 40. Some undergarments 5
20A 43. Not deceived by 4
21A 44. Distinction 5
22A 46. Brother (and husband) of 15-Across 4
23A 48. Actor Aykroyd 3
24A 49. Fender-Gibson-Yamaha 12
25A 53. "My treat!" 7
26A 56. Opposite of save 5
27A 57. Future degree for one taking the GMAT 3
28A 58. Forever stamp letters 4
29A 61. Is up, in baseball 4
30A 63. Silverado-Ram-Tundra 10
31A 67. Home to Bryce Canyon 4
32A 68. ___ code (404 Not Found, e.g.) 5
33A 69. Homecoming attendee, for short 4
34A 70. Word with circular or nail 4
35A 71. Optimal 5
36A 72. State flower of 67-Across 4
37A 73. Took a nosedive 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. Donations"

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

    The answer is: ALMS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "5. Think ahead"

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 series of steps to be carried out or goals to be accomplished
  • Words that mean the same thing: programme, architectural plan, project
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PLAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "9. Willing to enter a lion's den, maybe"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a north american indian warrior
  • Words that mean the same thing: dauntless, brave out, weather
  • The opposite would be: cowardly, timid
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BRAVE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. Organizer of a couples cruise?"

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 hebrew patriarch who saved himself and his family and the animals by building an ark in which they survived 40 days and 40 nights of rain; the story of noah and the flood is told in the book of genesis
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NOAH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "15. Greek goddess of marriage"

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 queen of the olympian gods in ancient greek mythology; sister and wife of zeus remembered for her jealously of the many mortal women zeus fell in love with; identified with roman juno
  • Words that mean the same thing: Here
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HERA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "16. Justice Ruth ___ Ginsburg"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that having undesirable or negative qualities
  • Words that mean the same thing: forged, regretful, high-risk
  • The opposite would be: unregretful, good
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BADER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "17. Fraternity party attire that is traditionally Roman, not Greek"

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 one-piece cloak worn by men in ancient rome
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TOGA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "18. Buchanan-Duck-Duke"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 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: DAISYCHAIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "20. Fishtail, maybe"

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 one of a pair of planks used to make a track for rolling or sliding objects
  • Words that mean the same thing: slew, brake shoe, shoe
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SKID

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "21. Confront"

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 front of the human head from the forehead to the chin and ear to ear
  • Words that mean the same thing: nerve, brass, expression
  • The opposite would be: avoid, back
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FACE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "22. Ending with plug or trade"

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 agency in the department of justice that enforces laws and regulations for the admission of foreign-born persons to the united states
  • Words that mean the same thing: Hoosier State, atomic number 49, Indiana
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: INS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "23. Snack-motivated Great Dane of toons"

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: SCOOB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "26. Under the most unfavorable circumstances"

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: ATWORST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "29. Paris Métro-BART-London Underground"

Quick Info: This answer has 12 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: SUBWAYSERIES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "32. "Great" primate"

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 any of various primates with short tails or no tail at all
  • Words that mean the same thing: anthropoid, aper, copycat
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: APE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "33. Bona fide"

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 rational or irrational number
  • Words that mean the same thing: really, actual, very
  • The opposite would be: unreal, insubstantial
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: REAL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "34. "Well, ___ your heart!""

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 give a benediction to
  • Words that mean the same thing: sanctify, sign, hallow
  • The opposite would be: desecrate, curse
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BLESS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "38. Info on a trading card"

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: STAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "40. Some undergarments"

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 socially awkward or tactless act
  • Words that mean the same thing: berth, skid, faux pas
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SLIPS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "43. Not deceived by"

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: ONTO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "44. Distinction"

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 a tangible symbol signifying approval or distinction
  • Words that mean the same thing: award, honour, observe
  • The opposite would be: disrespect, dishonor
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HONOR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "46. Brother (and husband) of 15-Across"

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) the supreme god of ancient greek mythology; son of rhea and cronus whom he dethroned; husband and brother of hera; brother of poseidon and hades; father of many gods; counterpart of roman jupiter
  • Words that mean the same thing: genus Zeus
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ZEUS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "48. Actor Aykroyd"

Quick Info: This answer has 3 letters. It's a easy 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: DAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "49. Fender-Gibson-Yamaha"

Quick Info: This answer has 12 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: GUITARSTRING

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "53. "My treat!""

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: ITSONME

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "56. Opposite of save"

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 pass time in a specific way
  • Words that mean the same thing: drop, pass, expend
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SPEND

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "57. Future degree for one taking the GMAT"

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 master's degree in business
  • Words that mean the same thing: Master in Business Administration, Master in Business
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MBA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "58. Forever stamp letters"

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 independent federal agency that provides mail processing and delivery service for individuals and businesses in the united states
  • Words that mean the same thing: US Postal Service, United States Postal Service
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: USPS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "61. Is up, in baseball"

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 nocturnal mouselike mammal with forelimbs modified to form membranous wings and anatomical adaptations for echolocation by which they navigate
  • Words that mean the same thing: loony, at-bat, cricket bat
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BATS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "63. Silverado-Ram-Tundra"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a medium clue about history.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: PICKUPLINE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "67. Home to Bryce Canyon"

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 state in the western united states; settled in 1847 by mormons led by brigham young
  • Words that mean the same thing: Beehive State, UT, Mormon State
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: UTAH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "68. ___ code (404 Not Found, e.g.)"

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

    The answer is: ERROR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "69. Homecoming attendee, for short"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a white crystalline double sulfate of aluminum: the ammonium double sulfate of aluminum
  • Words that mean the same thing: potassium alum, alumna, ammonia alum
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALUM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "70. Word with circular or nail"

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 set of related records (either written or electronic) kept together
  • Words that mean the same thing: single file, register, Indian file
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FILE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "71. Optimal"

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 idea of something that is perfect; something that one hopes to attain
  • Words that mean the same thing: nonesuch, idealistic, nonpareil
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IDEAL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Across: "72. State flower of 67-Across"

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

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: SEGO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Across: "73. Took a nosedive"

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 dressed skin of an animal (especially a large animal)
  • Words that mean the same thing: cut down, drop, precipitate
  • The opposite would be: rise, ascend
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FELL

    Great job if you got it right!

February 07, 2023 Down Hints: NYT Tuesday Crossword Guide

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Members of a certain colony 4
2D 2. Admires 9
3D 3. One of several traded for Jack's family cow, in a fairy tale 9
4D 4. One getting shorter throughout the morning 6
5D 5. Third degree? 3
6D 6. Scott Joplin's "Maple ___ Rag" 4
7D 7. Operatic solo 4
8D 8. Org. for Jeff Gordon 6
9D 9. Something to watch on a telly 3
10D 10. Stadium shout 3
11D 11. Famed firefighter Red 5
12D 12. Containers of blood or ore 5
13D 13. Surrealist Max 5
14D 19. Beast in rare "sightings" 4
15D 24. Galley propeller 3
16D 25. Farewells 4
17D 27. Spider's creation 3
18D 28. Capital founded during the Viking Age 4
19D 29. Bit of pageant attire 4
20D 30. Bryan Batt's role on "Mad Men" 3
21D 31. Sister to Angelica and Peggy in "Hamilton" 5
22D 35. Finish without anyone winning 9
23D 36. Act confidently 9
24D 37. Ballad, e.g. 4
25D 39. Like some restaurant orders 4
26D 41. ___ capita 3
27D 42. Puzzle (out) 4
28D 45. Cry in an emergency 3
29D 47. Longtime sponsor of 8-Down 3
30D 50. "No need to wake me" 4
31D 51. Some electric cars 6
32D 52. Give the cold shoulder 6
33D 53. Louvre Pyramid architect 5
34D 54. Car mentioned in the Beach Boys' "Fun, Fun, Fun" 5
35D 55. "___ bleu!" 5
36D 59. Heap 4
37D 60. Like a bug in a rug 4
38D 62. Author/illustrator Silverstein 4
39D 64. Big inits. in R.V. hookups 3
40D 65. Online address, in brief 3
41D 66. Introspective rock genre 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. Members of a certain colony"

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 social insect living in organized colonies; characteristically the males and fertile queen have wings during breeding season; wingless sterile females are the workers
  • Words that mean the same thing: ant, emmet, pismire
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ANTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Admires"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 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: LOOKSUPTO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. One of several traded for Jack's family cow, in a fairy tale"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 letters. It's a expert 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: MAGICBEAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. One getting shorter throughout the morning"

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 shade within clear boundaries
  • Words that mean the same thing: phantasm, fantasm, overshadow
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SHADOW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Third degree?"

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 doctorate usually based on at least 3 years graduate study and a dissertation; the highest degree awarded graduate study
  • Words that mean the same thing: Ph.D.
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PHD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Scott Joplin's "Maple ___ Rag""

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 main organ of photosynthesis and transpiration in higher plants
  • Words that mean the same thing: flip, thumb, riffle
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LEAF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Operatic solo"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an elaborate song for solo voice
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ARIA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Org. for Jeff Gordon"

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: NASCAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Something to watch on a telly"

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: BBC

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Stadium shout"

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: RAH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Famed firefighter Red"

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: ADAIR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Containers of blood or ore"

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 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: VEINS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. Surrealist Max"

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 painter (born in germany, resident of france and the united states) who was a cofounder of dadaism; developed the technique of collage (1891-1976)
  • Words that mean the same thing: Max Ernst
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ERNST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "19. Beast in rare "sightings""

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 large hairy humanoid creature said to live in the himalayas
  • Words that mean the same thing: abominable snowman
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: YETI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "24. Galley propeller"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an implement used to propel or steer a boat
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "25. Farewells"

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 you advance to the next round in a tournament without playing an opponent
  • Words that mean the same thing: good day, bye, pass
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BYES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "27. Spider's creation"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an intricate network suggesting something that was formed by weaving or interweaving
  • Words that mean the same thing: vane, World Wide Web, WWW
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: WEB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "28. Capital founded during the Viking Age"

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 the capital and largest city of norway; the country's main port; located at the head of a fjord on norway's southern coast
  • Words that mean the same thing: capital of Norway, Christiania
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OSLO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "29. Bit of pageant attire"

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 framework that holds the panes of a window in the window frame
  • Words that mean the same thing: waistband, window sash, waistcloth
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SASH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "30. Bryan Batt's role on "Mad Men""

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SAL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "31. Sister to Angelica and Peggy in "Hamilton""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 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: ELIZA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "35. Finish without anyone winning"

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: ENDINATIE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "36. Act confidently"

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: STANDTALL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "37. Ballad, e.g."

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 short musical composition with words
  • Words that mean the same thing: Song dynasty, call, vocal
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SONG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "39. Like some restaurant orders"

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 republic on the western coast of africa on the gulf of guinea; formerly under french control
  • Words that mean the same thing: Togolese Republic
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TOGO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "41. ___ capita"

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: PER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "42. Puzzle (out)"

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 type genus of the suidae
  • Words that mean the same thing: Sus, genus Sus
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SUSS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "45. Cry in an emergency"

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 score in baseball made by a runner touching all four bases safely
  • Words that mean the same thing: tally, test, course
  • The opposite would be: malfunction, idle
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RUN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "47. Longtime sponsor of 8-Down"

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 standard temperature and pressure
  • Words that mean the same thing: s.t.p.
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "50. "No need to wake me""

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: IMUP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "51. Some electric cars"

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 unit of magnetic flux density equal to one weber per square meter
  • Words that mean the same thing: tesla, Tesla, Nikola Tesla
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TESLAS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "52. Give the cold shoulder"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a deliberate discourteous act (usually as an expression of anger or disapproval)
  • Words that mean the same thing: snub, slight, repulse
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: REBUFF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "53. Louvre Pyramid architect"

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: IMPEI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "54. Car mentioned in the Beach Boys' "Fun, Fun, Fun""

Quick Info: This answer has 5 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: TBIRD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "55. "___ bleu!""

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: SACRE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "59. Heap"

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 collection of objects laid on top of each other
  • Words that mean the same thing: quite a little, bundle, cumulation
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PILE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "60. Like a bug in a rug"

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 small secluded room
  • Words that mean the same thing: cubbyhole, cubby, snuggery
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SNUG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Down: "62. Author/illustrator Silverstein"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a medium 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: SHEL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Down: "64. Big inits. in R.V. hookups"

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: KOA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 40 Down: "65. Online address, in brief"

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 address of a web page on the world wide web
  • Words that mean the same thing: universal resource locator, uniform resource locator
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: URL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 41 Down: "66. Introspective rock genre"

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: EMO

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 55 70.5%
Short Answer 15 19.2%
History 3 3.8%
Celebrity/Entertainment 2 2.6%
Geography 2 2.6%
Abbreviation 1 1.3%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 37
Down Clues 41
Total Clues 78
Average Answer Length 4.8 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 Tuesday, and these puzzles are usually medium level
  • Most clues today are about general knowledge
  • The average word today has about 4 letters
  • Remember: It's okay to take breaks and come back later with fresh eyes!
  • Ask someone for help if you need it - crosswords are more fun with friends!

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 04, 2025 at 11:16 AM

Friday, December 12, 2025

NYT Down Clues Answers December 12, 2025 - All 37 Vertical Solutions & Expert Hints

Friday NYT Down Solutions December 12, 2025 - Every Vertical Clue Decoded with Hints

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: NYT Across Today November 03 2025 | March 21 2023 NYT Clues Solutions | November 10 2022 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for December 12, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Friday, December 12, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date December 12, 2025
Day of Week Friday
Total Down Clues 37 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Easy

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. Stone
2 Down 2. Vaudeville highlight
3 Down 3. Pulitzer-winning journalist Applebaum
4 Down 4. You might pull one out for a guest
5 Down 5. With 38-Across, one way to sit
6 Down 6. Feel gross
7 Down 7. "Gross"
8 Down 8. Playwright who wrote "You see things; and you say 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say 'Why not?'"
9 Down 9. "Tell Mama" singer James
10 Down 10. Rocky road ingredient?
11 Down 11. Distinction for a classic underground work
12 Down 12. Bind
13 Down 13. Sticks a fork in
14 Down 15. Part of NOW
15 Down 21. "Fiddlesticks!"
16 Down 23. Disney princess in New Orleans
17 Down 24. Workshop debris
18 Down 26. Possible need for entry
19 Down 27. Each
20 Down 28. Colleague who might be solutions-oriented?
21 Down 29. Tropical plants said to bring good fortune
22 Down 32. "That's the truth"
23 Down 33. Kid's parent
24 Down 34. Hagfish lookalikes
25 Down 36. Company whose logo has a hidden arrow between its fourth and fifth letters
26 Down 39. Performance that isn't prerecorded
27 Down 40. Word from the Greek for "folded paper"
28 Down 43. Butcher shop buys
29 Down 44. Pleasing to the palate
30 Down 45. "Buss It" rapper ___ Banks
31 Down 48. Way
32 Down 49. Arm of the Dept. of Labor
33 Down 51. Part of a cabinet
34 Down 52. French 101 verb
35 Down 55. Whitehouse in D.C., e.g.: Abbr.
36 Down 56. Physics unit equivalent to roughly 624 gigaelectronvolts
37 Down 57. Thoroughly evaluate

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. Stone"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'T'
  • Similar words: pock, Inferno
  • Opposite of: Heaven
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a sizeable hole (usually in the ground)
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PIT


2 Down: "2. Vaudeville highlight"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: S__T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a short theatrical episode
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SKIT


3 Down: "3. Pulitzer-winning journalist Applebaum"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 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 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ANNE


4 Down: "4. You might pull one out for a guest"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: S_____D
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SOFABED


5 Down: "5. With 38-Across, one way to sit"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: C________S
  • Similar words: mark, cross
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a marking that consists of lines that cross each other
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CRISSCROSS


6 Down: "6. Feel gross"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'L'
  • Similar words: garlic, trouble
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: aromatic bulb used as seasoning
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AIL


7 Down: "7. "Gross""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'U' and ends with 'H'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer UGH


8 Down: "8. Playwright who wrote "You see things; and you say 'Why?' But I dream things that never were; and I say 'Why not?'""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'W'
  • Word pattern: S__W
  • Similar words: Josh Billings, G. B. Shaw
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SHAW


9 Down: "9. "Tell Mama" singer James"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: E__A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ETTA


10 Down: "10. Rocky road ingredient?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: A_____T
  • Similar words: mineral pitch
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ASPHALT


11 Down: "11. Distinction for a classic underground work"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: C________S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CULTSTATUS


12 Down: "12. Bind"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: T___P
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TIEUP


13 Down: "13. Sticks a fork in"

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: shot, thrust
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a sudden sharp feeling
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STABS


14 Down: "15. Part of NOW"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'W' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: W___N
  • Similar words: adult female, char
  • Opposite of: man
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an adult female person (as opposed to a man)
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer WOMEN


15 Down: "21. "Fiddlesticks!""

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: scud, pullulate
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a new branch
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SHOOT


16 Down: "23. Disney princess in New Orleans"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 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 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TIANA


17 Down: "24. Workshop debris"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: S_____T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: fine particles of wood made by sawing wood
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SAWDUST


18 Down: "26. Possible need for entry"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'V' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: V__A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer VISA


19 Down: "27. Each"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: A__P
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer APOP


20 Down: "28. Colleague who might be solutions-oriented?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: L________R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LABPARTNER


21 Down: "29. Tropical plants said to bring good fortune"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: M________S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MONEYTREES


22 Down: "32. "That's the truth""

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: fact
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FACTS


23 Down: "33. Kid's parent"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: G__T
  • Similar words: laughingstock, caprine animal
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GOAT


24 Down: "34. Hagfish lookalikes"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: E__S
  • Similar words: eel
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EELS


25 Down: "36. Company whose logo has a hidden arrow between its fourth and fifth letters"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'X'
  • Word pattern: F___X
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FEDEX


26 Down: "39. Performance that isn't prerecorded"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: L_____T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LIVESET


27 Down: "40. Word from the Greek for "folded paper""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: D_____A
  • Similar words: sheepskin
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DIPLOMA


28 Down: "43. Butcher shop buys"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: L___S
  • Similar words: pubes, lumbus
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LOINS


29 Down: "44. Pleasing to the palate"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: S___D
  • Similar words: flavourous, flavorful
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: full of flavor
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SAPID


30 Down: "45. "Buss It" rapper ___ Banks"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: E___A
  • Similar words: true heath
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: any plant of the genus Erica
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ERICA


31 Down: "48. Way"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'H'
  • Word pattern: P__H
  • Similar words: track, course
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a course of conduct
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PATH


32 Down: "49. Arm of the Dept. of Labor"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OSHA


33 Down: "51. Part of a cabinet"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'B'
  • Word pattern: K__B
  • Similar words: thickening, pommel
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a circular rounded projection or protuberance
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KNOB


34 Down: "52. French 101 verb"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: E__E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ETRE


35 Down: "55. Whitehouse in D.C., e.g.: Abbr."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'N'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SEN


36 Down: "56. Physics unit equivalent to roughly 624 gigaelectronvolts"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ERG


37 Down: "57. Thoroughly evaluate"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'V' and ends with 'T'
  • Similar words: veterinarian, veterinary
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a doctor who practices veterinary medicine
  • This is Down clue number 37

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer VET

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: December 12, 2025 at 05:16 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, December 12 2025 down clues