Search Clues

Showing posts sorted by relevance for query ingroup. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query ingroup. Sort by date Show all posts

Saturday, September 27, 2025

January 21, 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

Quick Navigation - Table of Contents

Related Puzzles

Check out these other crossword solutions and helpful guides:

Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Tuesday, January 21, 2020

Difficulty Level: Medium Tuesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 76 (39 Across, 37 Down)

Average Word Length: 4.9 letters

January 21, 2020 Across Hints: NYT Tuesday Crossword Answers

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Ideologies 4
2A 5. Something to pitch or break 4
3A 9. "I give up!" 5
4A 14. Ham or lamb 4
5A 15. ___ bowl (health food offering) 4
6A 16. 1988 Summer Olympics city 5
7A 17. Subject of interest to a 23andMe user 4
8A 18. Vivacious 4
9A 19. "You are not!" retort 5
10A 20. Cellphone button 8
11A 22. Tiny sound? 5
12A 23. Xylophonist's need 6
13A 24. URL ending 3
14A 25. Hit from the '60s? 3
15A 27. "Baa baa" mama 3
16A 28. Groups plotting coups 6
17A 31. "Casablanca" setting 4
18A 32. IV solution 6
19A 33. English school that's a rival of Harrow 4
20A 34. Party purchase ... or a hint to each circled letter set 13
21A 38. Brief moments 4
22A 39. Bronze and brass 6
23A 40. Aviated 4
24A 41. Unburdened by 6
25A 42. A.T.F. agent, e.g. 3
26A 45. ___-told 3
27A 46. Keyboard key pressed by a pinkie 3
28A 47. "Nothing in life is fun for the whole ___": Jerry Seinfeld 6
29A 49. Prepped, as apples for baking 5
30A 51. Tiffs 8
31A 53. River rental 5
32A 54. "Aaron ___, Sir" (song from "Hamilton") 4
33A 55. Panache 4
34A 56. Fluorescent bulb filler 5
35A 57. Major Baltic port 4
36A 58. Desktop image 4
37A 59. Quick to anger 5
38A 60. Pour forth 4
39A 61. Grasps 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. Ideologies"

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 belief (or system of beliefs) accepted as authoritative by some group or school
  • Words that mean the same thing: doctrine, school of thought, ism
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ISMS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "5. Something to pitch or break"

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 temporary living quarters specially built by the army for soldiers
  • Words that mean the same thing: ingroup, pack, cantonment
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CAMP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "9. "I give up!""

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the brother of your father or mother; the husband of your aunt
  • The opposite would be: aunt
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: UNCLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. Ham or lamb"

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 flesh of animals (including fishes and birds and snails) used as food
  • Words that mean the same thing: heart, substance, nub
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MEAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "15. ___ bowl (health food offering)"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 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: ACAI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "16. 1988 Summer Olympics city"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the capital of south korea and the largest city of asia; located in northwestern south korea
  • Words that mean the same thing: capital of South Korea
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SEOUL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "17. Subject of interest to a 23andMe user"

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 (genetics) a segment of dna that is involved in producing a polypeptide chain; it can include regions preceding and following the coding dna as well as introns between the exons; it is considered a unit of heredity
  • Words that mean the same thing: factor, cistron
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GENE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "18. Vivacious"

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 characterized by a lightly pert and exuberant quality
  • Words that mean the same thing: irreverent, saucy, impertinent
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PERT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "19. "You are not!" retort"

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: IAMSO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "20. Cellphone button"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a star-shaped character * used in printing
  • Words that mean the same thing: star
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ASTERISK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "22. Tiny sound?"

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 an arm off of a larger body of water (often between rocky headlands)
  • Words that mean the same thing: intake, recess
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: INLET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "23. Xylophonist's need"

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 sports implement with a long handle and a head like a hammer; used in sports (polo or croquet) to hit a ball
  • Words that mean the same thing: hammer, beetle
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MALLET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "24. URL ending"

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: ORG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "25. Hit from the '60s?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a powerful hallucinogenic drug manufactured from lysergic acid
  • Words that mean the same thing: lysergic acid diethylamide
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LSD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "27. "Baa baa" mama"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a member of a people living in southern benin and togo and southeastern ghana
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EWE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "28. Groups plotting coups"

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 clique (often secret) that seeks power usually through intrigue
  • Words that mean the same thing: conspiracy, conjure, faction
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CABALS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "31. "Casablanca" setting"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a small restaurant where drinks and snacks are sold
  • Words that mean the same thing: coffee bar, coffee shop, coffeehouse
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CAFE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "32. IV solution"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an isotonic solution of sodium chloride and distilled water
  • Words that mean the same thing: saline solution
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SALINE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "33. English school that's a rival of Harrow"

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: ETON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "34. Party purchase ... or a hint to each circled letter set"

Quick Info: This answer has 13 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SIXPACKOFBEER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "38. Brief moments"

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 1/60 of a minute; the basic unit of time adopted under the systeme international d'unites
  • Words that mean the same thing: second, Securities and Exchange Commission, s
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SECS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "39. Bronze and brass"

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 mixture containing two or more metallic elements or metallic and nonmetallic elements usually fused together or dissolving into each other when molten
  • Words that mean the same thing: metal, admixture, debase
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALLOYS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "40. Aviated"

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 travel through the air; be airborne
  • Words that mean the same thing: wing, vaporize, take flight
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FLEW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "41. Unburdened by"

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: FREEOF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "42. A.T.F. agent, e.g."

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 federal law-enforcement officer
  • Words that mean the same thing: Federal, Federal Reserve, Federal Reserve System
  • The opposite would be: starve
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "45. ___-told"

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 many times at short intervals
  • Words that mean the same thing: often, frequently, ofttimes
  • The opposite would be: rarely, infrequently
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OFT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "46. Keyboard key pressed by a pinkie"

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 bill in a restaurant
  • Words that mean the same thing: tablet, tabloid, tab key
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TAB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "47. "Nothing in life is fun for the whole ___": Jerry Seinfeld"

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 social unit living together
  • Words that mean the same thing: household, kinsfolk, kinfolk
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FAMILY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "49. Prepped, as apples for baking"

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

    The answer is: CORED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "51. Tiffs"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an angry dispute
  • Words that mean the same thing: words, run-in, wrangle
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: QUARRELS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "53. River rental"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that small and light boat; pointed at both ends; propelled with a paddle
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CANOE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "54. "Aaron ___, Sir" (song from "Hamilton")"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that seed vessel having hooks or prickles
  • Words that mean the same thing: bur, Aaron Burr
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BURR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "55. Panache"

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 quality of being active or spirited or alive and vigorous
  • Words that mean the same thing: spiritedness, vivification, invigoration
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BRIO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "56. Fluorescent bulb filler"

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 colorless and odorless inert gas; one of the six inert gases; comprises approximately 1% of the earth's atmosphere
  • Words that mean the same thing: atomic number 18, Ar
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ARGON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "57. Major Baltic port"

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 port city on the gulf of riga that is the capital and largest city of latvia; formerly a member of the hanseatic league
  • Words that mean the same thing: capital of Latvia
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RIGA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Across: "58. Desktop image"

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 (computer science) a graphic symbol (usually a simple picture) that denotes a program or a command or a data file or a concept in a graphical user interface
  • Words that mean the same thing: picture, ikon, image
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ICON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Across: "59. Quick to anger"

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 easily irritated or annoyed
  • Words that mean the same thing: techy, pettish, irritable
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TESTY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Across: "60. Pour forth"

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 expel or eject (saliva or phlegm or sputum) from the mouth
  • Words that mean the same thing: vomit, barf, retch
  • The opposite would be: keep down
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SPEW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Across: "61. Grasps"

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 return on a shot that seemed impossible to reach and would normally have resulted in a point for the opponent
  • Words that mean the same thing: bugger off, gravel, find
  • The opposite would be: end, leave
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GETS

    Great job if you got it right!

Down Clues Decoded - Tuesday NYT Crossword January 21, 2020

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. "Sign me up!" 6
2D 2. Go back and forth 6
3D 3. Layer below the earth's crust 6
4D 4. Shade of blue 5
5D 5. Symbol on a Braves baseball cap 8
6D 6. "Bullets," in poker 4
7D 7. Old German money 4
8D 8. Orchestra locale 3
9D 9. On drugs 5
10D 10. Beat writer ___ Cassady 4
11D 11. Not be punctual 8
12D 12. Greatly desires 8
13D 13. "Mr. Blue Sky" band, for short 3
14D 21. Sportscast summary 5
15D 22. E-file recipient, in brief 3
16D 24. Soccer stadium chant 6
17D 26. Study 3
18D 29. Upset stomach soother, informally 6
19D 30. Twistable joint 5
20D 31. They'll earn you a 2.0 4
21D 32. Annual Austin festival, for short 4
22D 34. Healthy diet and regular exercise, say 8
23D 35. Barkeep's grabber 8
24D 36. Hullabaloo 8
25D 37. Hands down 5
26D 38. Airport across the bay from OAK 3
27D 41. PokΓ©mon Go, in the late 2010s, e.g. 3
28D 42. Savage 6
29D 43. Mama Cass 6
30D 44. Vacuum cleaners featuring "cyclone" technology 6
31D 46. Minuscule 5
32D 48. "Live and Let Die" villain 5
33D 50. Rummage (through) 4
34D 51. Witticism 4
35D 52. Advocate for 4
36D 53. Cougar or cheetah 3
37D 54. Abbr. in a real estate ad 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. "Sign me up!""

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: IMGAME

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Go back and forth"

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 plaything consisting of a board balanced on a fulcrum; the board is ridden up and down by children at either end
  • Words that mean the same thing: dandle board, totter, teeter
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SEESAW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Layer below the earth's crust"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the cloak as a symbol of authority
  • Words that mean the same thing: chimneypiece, blanket, pallium
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MANTLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Shade of blue"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an alloy of iron with small amounts of carbon; widely used in construction; mechanical properties can be varied over a wide range
  • Words that mean the same thing: blade, brand, nerve
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STEEL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Symbol on a Braves baseball cap"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: CAPITALA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. "Bullets," in poker"

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 smallest whole number or a numeral representing this number
  • Words that mean the same thing: maven, mavin, wizard
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ACES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Old German money"

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 number or letter indicating quality (especially of a student's performance)
  • Words that mean the same thing: marker, soft touch, sucker
  • The opposite would be: ignore
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MARK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Orchestra locale"

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 sizeable hole (usually in the ground)
  • Words that mean the same thing: cavity, quarry, play off
  • The opposite would be: Heaven
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PIT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. On drugs"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an act that exploits or victimizes someone (treats them unfairly)
  • Words that mean the same thing: victimization, habituate, use
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: USING

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Beat writer ___ Cassady"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: NEAL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Not be punctual"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: COMELATE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Greatly desires"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: LUSTSFOR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. "Mr. Blue Sky" band, for short"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ELO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "21. Sportscast summary"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a summary at the end that repeats the substance of a longer discussion
  • Words that mean the same thing: retread, recapitulation, recapitulate
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RECAP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "22. E-file recipient, 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 bureau of the treasury department responsible for tax collections
  • Words that mean the same thing: Internal Revenue 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: IRS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "24. Soccer stadium chant"

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: OLEOLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "26. Study"

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 habitation of wild animals
  • Words that mean the same thing: hideaway, hideout, lair
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "29. Upset stomach soother, informally"

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: BICARB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "30. Twistable joint"

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 gliding joint between the distal ends of the tibia and fibula and the proximal end of the talus
  • Words that mean the same thing: ankle joint, articulatio talocruralis, mortise joint
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ANKLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "31. They'll earn you a 2.0"

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: CEES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "32. Annual Austin festival, for short"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SXSW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "34. Healthy diet and regular exercise, say"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SELFCARE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "35. Barkeep's grabber"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ICETONGS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "36. Hullabaloo"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 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: FOOFARAW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "37. Hands down"

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: BYFAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "38. Airport across the bay from OAK"

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: SFO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "41. PokΓ©mon Go, in the late 2010s, e.g."

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 interest followed with exaggerated zeal
  • Words that mean the same thing: rage, craze, furore
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FAD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "42. Savage"

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 marked by extreme and violent energy
  • Words that mean the same thing: furious, violent, rough
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FIERCE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "43. Mama Cass"

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: ELLIOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "44. Vacuum cleaners featuring "cyclone" technology"

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: DYSONS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "46. Minuscule"

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 (used informally) very small
  • Words that mean the same thing: bittie, teensy, weensy
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TEENY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "48. "Live and Let Die" villain"

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: MRBIG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "50. Rummage (through)"

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 (botany) the usually underground organ that lacks buds or leaves or nodes; absorbs water and mineral salts; usually it anchors the plant to the ground
  • Words that mean the same thing: tooth root, ancestor, source
  • The opposite would be: descendant
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ROOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "51. Witticism"

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 witty saying
  • Words that mean the same thing: gag, wisecrack, epigram
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: QUIP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "52. Advocate for"

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 instinctive motive
  • Words that mean the same thing: impulse, inspire, root on
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: URGE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "53. Cougar or cheetah"

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 feline mammal usually having thick soft fur and no ability to roar: domestic cats; wildcats
  • Words that mean the same thing: vomit, barf, Caterpillar
  • The opposite would be: keep down
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "54. Abbr. in a real estate ad"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a nonmetallic heavy volatile corrosive dark brown liquid element belonging to the halogens; found in sea water
  • Words that mean the same thing: Brigate Rosse, Br, BR
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BRS

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 55 72.4%
Short Answer 12 15.8%
Geography 3 3.9%
Abbreviation 2 2.6%
Food & Drink 1 1.3%
Music 1 1.3%
Literature 1 1.3%
Sports 1 1.3%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 39
Down Clues 37
Total Clues 76
Average Answer Length 4.9 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 13 letters

Fun Tips to Solve Crossword Puzzles!

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

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

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

Last Updated: September 27, 2025 at 02:38 PM

Friday, April 17, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers April 17, 2026 | Expert Breakdown & Tips

Master today's NYT crossword with our expert hint system. We provide synonyms, antonyms, and strategic clues to help you solve without spoiling the fun. Perfect for crossword lovers who want that satisfying "aha!" moment.

Quick Navigation - Table of Contents

Today's Puzzle Difficulty: Tricky

Pro Tip: Start with the fill-in-the-blank clues - they're usually the easiest entry points!

Across Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. 12-12, say 4
2A 5. Make an all-out effort 5
3A 10. 50, on a table 3
4A 13. Sea creature known to mourn its dead 4
5A 14. Long-stemmed mushroom 5
6A 15. Wow 3
7A 16. Medicare subsection covering ambulance services 5
8A 18. Get to the point? 5
9A 19. Half a chocolate bar 3
10A 20. Settle a bill 8
11A 22. Georgia hometown of R.E.M. and the B-52s 6
12A 24. Small pieces from 6
13A 26. Multitude 4
14A 27. Looks over briefly 9
15A 30. Word after back or snack 4
16A 32. Sticker that usually comes in sets of three or four? 5
17A 33. Did some knifework on 5
18A 35. Solo pilot? 3
19A 36. Worst of all imaginable chronologies 15
20A 39. "What's the issue ...?" 3
21A 40. Start to season, as a skillet 5
22A 41. "Storage Wars" network 5
23A 42. Awaken 4
24A 44. Voting, e.g. 9
25A 46. "Altho ..." 4
26A 48. Set of notes in a seventh chord 6
27A 49. "Stop being such a baby!" 6
28A 51. Negative Nancy or Debbie Downer 8
29A 55. First Super Bowl won by the Kansas City Chiefs in 50 years 3
30A 56. Gal on the screen 5
31A 58. [You're boring me] 5
32A 59. First of all 3
33A 60. Result from 5
34A 61. Chewy Japanese noodle 4
35A 62. "___ supuesto!" ("Of course!," in Spanish) 3
36A 63. Look with a curled lip 5
37A 64. Mizzen, e.g. 4

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. 12-12, say"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that fasten or secure with a rope, string, or cord
  • Similar words include: even, tie, link
  • Opposite of: untied, untie
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TIED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "5. Make an all-out effort"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GOBIG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "10. 50, on a table"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a silvery malleable metallic element that resists corrosion; used in many alloys and to coat other metals to prevent corrosion; obtained chiefly from cassiterite where it occurs as tin oxide
  • Similar words include: can, cannister, Sn
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "13. Sea creature known to mourn its dead"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that predatory black-and-white toothed whale with large dorsal fin; common in cold seas
  • Similar words include: Orcinus orca, killer whale, killer
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ORCA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "14. Long-stemmed mushroom"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ENOKI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "15. Wow"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an overwhelming feeling of wonder or admiration
  • Similar words include: fear, reverence, veneration
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AWE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "16. Medicare subsection covering ambulance services"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PARTB

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "18. Get to the point?"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a convex shape that narrows toward a point
  • Similar words include: sharpen, candle, point
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TAPER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "19. Half a chocolate bar"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the leaves of the shrub catha edulis which are chewed like tobacco or used to make tea; has the effect of a euphoric stimulant
  • Similar words include: cat, African tea, quat
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: KAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "20. Settle a bill"

8 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SQUAREUP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "22. Georgia hometown of R.E.M. and the B-52s"

6 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the capital and largest city of greece; named after athena (its patron goddess)
  • Similar words include: capital of Greece, Athinai, Greek capital
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ATHENS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "24. Small pieces from"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BITSOF

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "26. Multitude"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a person who invites guests to a social event (such as a party in his or her own home) and who is responsible for them while they are there
  • Similar words include: horde, legion, boniface
  • Opposite of: parasite
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "27. Looks over briefly"

9 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GLANCESAT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "30. Word after back or snack"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a large indefinite number
  • Similar words include: ingroup, tamp, multitude
  • Opposite of: unpack
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PACK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "32. Sticker that usually comes in sets of three or four?"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a pointed projection
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PRONG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "33. Did some knifework on"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that cut into cubes
  • Similar words include: cube, dice
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DICED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "35. Solo pilot?"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that imperial dynasty that ruled china (most of the time from 206 bc to ad 220) and expanded its boundaries and developed its bureaucracy; remembered as one of the great eras of chinese civilization
  • Similar words include: Han dynasty
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HAN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "36. Worst of all imaginable chronologies"

15 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _______________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DARKESTTIMELINE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "39. "What's the issue ...?""

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AND

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "40. Start to season, as a skillet"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: REOIL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "41. "Storage Wars" network"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AANDE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "42. Awaken"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a prominent or sensational but short-lived news event
  • Similar words include: fuss, shake, stimulate
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: STIR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "44. Voting, e.g."

9 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CIVICDUTY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "46. "Altho ...""

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OTOH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "48. Set of notes in a seventh chord"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the cardinal number that is the sum of three and one
  • Similar words include: quartet, quaternary, quaternion
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TETRAD

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "49. "Stop being such a baby!""

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GROWUP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "51. Negative Nancy or Debbie Downer"

8 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that someone with an aggressively negative attitude
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NAYSAYER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "55. First Super Bowl won by the Kansas City Chiefs in 50 years"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that being four more than fifty
  • Similar words include: fifty-four, 54
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LIV

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "56. Gal on the screen"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GADOT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "58. [You're boring me]"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the rattling noise produced when snoring
  • Similar words include: saw wood, stertor, saw logs
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SNORE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "59. First of all"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the smallest whole number or a numeral representing this number
  • Similar words include: unitary, unity, unmatchable
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ONE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "60. Result from"

5 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: OWETO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34A: "61. Chewy Japanese noodle"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UDON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35A: "62. "___ supuesto!" ("Of course!," in Spanish)"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: POR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

36A: "63. Look with a curled lip"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a facial expression of contempt or scorn; the upper lip curls
  • Similar words include: leer
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SNEER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

37A: "64. Mizzen, e.g."

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a vertical spar for supporting sails
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MAST

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Outperforms 4
2D 2. Modern home of ancient Mesopotamia 4
3D 3. Neutral shade 4
4D 4. Informational repository 8
5D 5. End of a gay pride slogan 11
6D 6. "Bad news aside ..." 15
7D 7. Catchy tune 3
8D 8. Maker of the iconic Billy bookcase 4
9D 9. What's going around? 5
10D 10. Gets the memo 10
11D 11. 2000 song for Aaron Carter about seeking someone "tough but sweet" 10
12D 12. Safety devices for trapeze artists 4
13D 17. "Mars, the ___ of War" (first movement of "The Planets") 7
14D 21. "You get the picture" 3
15D 23. Old-school dance 3
16D 25. Discussion guider 11
17D 27. 2008 Clint Eastwood film centered around an attempted car theft 10
18D 28. Act superior to 10
19D 29. Pro ___ 3
20D 31. Bend it like Beckham! 4
21D 32. BlackBerrys, e.g., for short 4
22D 34. Seriously, in modern slang 7
23D 37. 1/86,400 of a day: Abbr. 3
24D 38. Opium product used by Anna Karenina and Victor Frankenstein 8
25D 43. Big fight 3
26D 45. Exclaim 3
27D 47. High honors in science fiction 5
28D 49. Sludge 4
29D 50. Sacrifice in some chess gambits 4
30D 52. Weird Al Yankovic parody of the Kinks's "Lola" 4
31D 53. Mythical lover 4
32D 54. Monthly expense 4
33D 57. Student center? 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Outperforms"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the upper part of anything
  • Similar words include: top, upper side, topnotch
  • Opposite of: bottom
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TOPS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. Modern home of ancient Mesopotamia"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a republic in the middle east in western asia; the ancient civilization of mesopotamia was in the area now known as iraq
  • Similar words include: Al-Iraq, Republic of Iraq, Irak
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IRAQ

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Neutral shade"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a very light brown
  • Similar words include: beige
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ECRU

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Informational repository"

8 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DATABANK

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. End of a gay pride slogan"

11 letters πŸ’­ Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GETUSEDTOIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. "Bad news aside ...""

15 letters πŸ’­ Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _______________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ONAPOSITIVENOTE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Catchy tune"

3 letters πŸ’­ Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the law enforcement agency of the justice department that operates a nationwide system of prisons and detention facilities to incarcerate inmates sentenced to imprisonment for federal crimes
  • Similar words include: sock, bash, bebop
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BOP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Maker of the iconic Billy bookcase"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IKEA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. What's going around?"

5 letters πŸ’­ Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the distance around a person's body
  • Similar words include: cinch
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GIRTH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Gets the memo"

10 letters πŸ’­ Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: __________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TAKESAHINT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. 2000 song for Aaron Carter about seeking someone "tough but sweet""

10 letters πŸ’­ Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: __________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IWANTCANDY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Safety devices for trapeze artists"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a computer network consisting of a worldwide network of computer networks that use the tcp/ip network protocols to facilitate data transmission and exchange
  • Similar words include: net profit, sack, web
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NETS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "17. "Mars, the ___ of War" (first movement of "The Planets")"

7 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BRINGER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "21. "You get the picture""

3 letters πŸ’­ Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ETC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "23. Old-school dance"

3 letters πŸ’­ Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the act of hopping; jumping upward or forward (especially on one foot)
  • Similar words include: hops, record hop, hop-skip
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "25. Discussion guider"

11 letters πŸ’­ Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that someone who makes progress easier
  • Pattern: ___________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: FACILITATOR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "27. 2008 Clint Eastwood film centered around an attempted car theft"

10 letters πŸ’­ Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: __________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GRANTORINO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "28. Act superior to"

10 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: __________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LORDITOVER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "29. Pro ___"

3 letters πŸ’­ Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TEM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "31. Bend it like Beckham!"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that hinge joint in the human leg connecting the tibia and fibula with the femur and protected in front by the patella
  • Similar words include: articulatio genus, stifle, human knee
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: KNEE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "32. BlackBerrys, e.g., for short"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a lightweight consumer electronic device that looks like a hand-held computer but instead performs specific tasks; can serve as a diary or a personal database or a telephone or an alarm clock etc.
  • Similar words include: personal organiser, personal digital assistant, organiser
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PDAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "34. Seriously, in modern slang"

7 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DEADASS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "37. 1/86,400 of a day: Abbr."

3 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that 1/60 of a minute; the basic unit of time adopted under the systeme international d'unites
  • Similar words include: s, Securities and Exchange Commission, second
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SEC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "38. Opium product used by Anna Karenina and Victor Frankenstein"

8 letters πŸ’­ Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that narcotic consisting of an alcohol solution of opium or any preparation in which opium is the main ingredient
  • Similar words include: tincture of opium
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LAUDANUM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "43. Big fight"

3 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an arrangement of objects or people side by side in a line
  • Similar words include: words, course, quarrel
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ROW

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "45. Exclaim"

3 letters πŸ’­ Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a loud utterance; often in protest or opposition
  • Similar words include: outcry, scream, weep
  • Opposite of: laugh
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CRY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "47. High honors in science fiction"

5 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that french poet and novelist and dramatist; leader of the romantic movement in france (1802-1885)
  • Similar words include: Victor Hugo, Hugo, Victor-Marie Hugo
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HUGOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "49. Sludge"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any gummy shapeless matter; usually unpleasant
  • Similar words include: treacle, slop, mush
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GLOP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "50. Sacrifice in some chess gambits"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an article deposited as security
  • Similar words include: instrument, hock, soak
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PAWN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "52. Weird Al Yankovic parody of the Kinks's "Lola""

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: YODA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "53. Mythical lover"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (greek mythology) god of love; son of aphrodite; identified with roman cupid
  • Similar words include: sexual desire, physical attraction, concupiscence
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EROS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "54. Monthly expense"

4 letters πŸ’­ Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a payment or series of payments made by the lessee to an owner for use of some property, facility, equipment, or service
  • Similar words include: lease, snag, split
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RENT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "57. Student center?"

3 letters πŸ’­ Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DEE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Expert Solving Strategies

Start Smart

Begin with fill-in-the-blank clues and short 3-4 letter words. These are your foundation.

Decode the Clues

Question marks indicate wordplay or puns. "Maybe" suggests multiple interpretations.

Use Cross-References

Let intersecting letters guide you. One correct answer unlocks several others.

Build Vocabulary

Common crossword words repeat. Learning them speeds up future solving.

Today's Puzzle Stats

37 Across Clues
33 Down Clues
70 Total Clues

More NYT Crossword Help

Looking for more puzzle solutions? Check out our comprehensive archive of NYT crossword hints and answers. We update daily with expert analysis and solving strategies.

Disclaimer: Crossword clues and grid © The New York Times. This site provides hints and educational content for puzzle enthusiasts. XWordHint is not affiliated with The New York Times.

Last updated: April 17, 2026 at 05:39 AM