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December 07, 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Saturday, December 07, 2019

Difficulty Level: Moderate Wednesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 68 (34 Across, 34 Down)

Average Word Length: 5.8 letters

December 07, 2019 NYT Clues Solutions

Across Clues Explained - Saturday NYT Crossword December 07, 2019

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Shaken thumb, in American Sign Language 3
2A 4. The "dark" in a Dark and Stormy, perhaps 11
3A 15. Schwarzbrot or Vollkornbrot loaf 3
4A 16. Post-match report 11
5A 17. Onomatopoeic cry 3
6A 18. How a security guard might say goodbye? 11
7A 19. Puts away 5
8A 21. Subjects of some relative clauses? 5
9A 22. ___ Geo 3
10A 23. Reduplicative girl's name 4
11A 24. Mascot of the W.N.B.A.'s Mystics, e.g. 5
12A 25. Most actors don't hold real ones, informally 4
13A 26. Do loops? 9
14A 28. Language from which "Saskatchewan" comes 4
15A 29. Part of an announcer's home run call 7
16A 30. Exhibit a male gaze, perhaps 4
17A 32. Word with big or goat 6
18A 33. Light on packaging 6
19A 37. Biblical verb with "thou" 4
20A 39. League leader, informally 7
21A 40. E.U. alliance 4
22A 42. Setting for a plastered cast? 9
23A 44. Start of some juice portmanteaus 4
24A 45. Makeup experts? 5
25A 46. Bender 4
26A 47. Tom's partner 3
27A 48. Opposite of calm 5
28A 49. Manila Pact grp. 5
29A 50. "I can confirm" 11
30A 53. Device sold with a remote 3
31A 54. Patchwork? 11
32A 55. What's more 3
33A 56. Barrier to entry 11
34A 57. "May I help you?" 3

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. Shaken thumb, in American Sign Language"

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 cardinal number that is the sum of nine and one; the base of the decimal system
  • Words that mean the same thing: 10, decade, ten-spot
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "4. The "dark" in a Dark and Stormy, perhaps"

Quick Info: This answer has 11 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: JAMAICANRUM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "15. Schwarzbrot or Vollkornbrot loaf"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the seed of the cereal grass
  • Words that mean the same thing: Secale cereale, rye whiskey, rye whisky
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RYE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "16. Post-match report"

Quick Info: This answer has 11 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: IMETSOMEONE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "17. Onomatopoeic cry"

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: EEK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "18. How a security guard might say goodbye?"

Quick Info: This answer has 11 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: GOTTABOUNCE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "19. Puts away"

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 fill by packing tightly
  • Words that mean the same thing: stow
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STOWS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "21. Subjects of some relative clauses?"

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 person who is entitled by law or by the terms of a will to inherit the estate of another
  • Words that mean the same thing: heritor, inheritor, heir
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HEIRS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "22. ___ Geo"

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: NAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "23. Reduplicative girl's name"

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: CECE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "24. Mascot of the W.N.B.A.'s Mystics, 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 large black-and-white herbivorous mammal of bamboo forests of china and tibet; in some classifications considered a member of the bear family or of a separate family ailuropodidae
  • Words that mean the same thing: coon bear, Ailurus fulgens, red panda
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PANDA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "25. Most actors don't hold real ones, informally"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: CIGS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "26. Do loops?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a band worn around or over the head
  • Words that mean the same thing: headband
  • The word looks like this: _________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HEADBANDS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "28. Language from which "Saskatchewan" comes"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a member of an algonquian people living in central canada
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CREE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "29. Part of an announcer's home run call"

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: ITSGONE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "30. Exhibit a male gaze, perhaps"

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

    The answer is: OGLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "32. Word with big or goat"

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 solid food prepared from the pressed curd of milk
  • Words that mean the same thing: Malva sylvestris, high mallow, tall mallow
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CHEESE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "33. Light on packaging"

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: LOWFAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "37. Biblical verb with "thou""

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: DOST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "39. League leader, informally"

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: COMMISH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "40. E.U. alliance"

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: GSIX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "42. Setting for a plastered cast?"

Quick Info: This answer has 9 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: WRAPPARTY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "44. Start of some juice portmanteaus"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a capacity unit used for measuring fresh herring
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CRAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "45. Makeup experts?"

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 person who has lied or who lies repeatedly
  • Words that mean the same thing: prevaricator, liar
  • The opposite would be: square shooter
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LIARS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "46. Bender"

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 drop of the clear salty saline solution secreted by the lacrimal glands
  • Words that mean the same thing: bust, rent, deplume
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TEAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "47. Tom's partner"

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 adult female chicken
  • Words that mean the same thing: biddy
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "48. Opposite of calm"

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 overwhelming feeling of fear and anxiety
  • Words that mean the same thing: scare, affright, terror
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PANIC

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "49. Manila Pact grp."

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: SEATO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "50. "I can confirm""

Quick Info: This answer has 11 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ITCHECKSOUT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "53. Device sold with a remote"

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: WII

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "54. Patchwork?"

Quick Info: This answer has 11 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: BETARELEASE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "55. What's more"

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: AND

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "56. Barrier to entry"

Quick Info: This answer has 11 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ALARMSYSTEM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "57. "May I help you?""

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 an affirmative
  • The opposite would be: no
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: YES

    Great job if you got it right!

Down Clues Decoded - Saturday NYT Crossword December 07, 2019

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. À la mode 8
2D 2. Sticking points for vampires 8
3D 3. 2000s rock singer with the hit albums "Hell-On" and "Middle Cyclone" 8
4D 4. The tunes "The Blarney Pilgrim" and "The Lark in the Morning," e.g. 4
5D 5. "Te ___" 3
6D 6. Dairy farm product 7
7D 7. Not miss 6
8D 8. Unhelpful follower of "because" 7
9D 9. Yoga pose similar to Upward-Facing Dog 5
10D 10. Nigerian novelist Tutuola 4
11D 11. Alt's opposite 3
12D 12. Name that's the title of a 1964 4 Seasons hit 6
13D 13. Disbar? 6
14D 14. Some sporting events 5
15D 20. Placed tightly 8
16D 24. Philatelist's collection 5
17D 25. Other hand 8
18D 27. Yanks' rivals 5
19D 28. Really hit one's stride? 5
20D 31. Messy food servings 5
21D 34. "Go ahead, ask" 8
22D 35. Rarest naturally occurring element in the earth's crust 8
23D 36. Energy regulators in the body 8
24D 38. Like stars in one's eyes 7
25D 39. Old-fashioned attire for a motorist 7
26D 40. Opera heroine who slays a witch 6
27D 41. Holy places 6
28D 43. Good news for the office staff 6
29D 44. Japanese city on Tokyo Bay 5
30D 45. What loafers lack 5
31D 48. Salon job 4
32D 49. Topic in education policy 4
33D 51. Sarcastic syllable 3
34D 52. Mixed-___ 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. À la mode"

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: TRESCHIC

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Sticking points for vampires"

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 one of the four pointed conical teeth (two in each jaw) located between the incisors and the premolars
  • Words that mean the same thing: cuspid, canine, eyetooth
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EYETEETH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. 2000s rock singer with the hit albums "Hell-On" and "Middle Cyclone""

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a expert clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: NEKOCASE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. The tunes "The Blarney Pilgrim" and "The Lark in the Morning," e.g."

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 music in three-four time for dancing a jig
  • Words that mean the same thing: jig, gigue
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: JIGS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. "Te ___""

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: AMO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Dairy farm product"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a colorless odorless gas used as a fuel
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: METHANE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Not miss"

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 be present at (meetings, church services, university), etc.
  • Words that mean the same thing: take care, serve, wait on
  • The opposite would be: miss
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ATTEND

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Unhelpful follower of "because""

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: ISAIDSO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Yoga pose similar to Upward-Facing Dog"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that venomous asiatic and african elapid snakes that can expand the skin of the neck into a hood
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: COBRA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Nigerian novelist Tutuola"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a hebrew shepherd and minor prophet
  • Words that mean the same thing: Book of Amos
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AMOS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Alt's opposite"

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: NEU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Name that's the title of a 1964 4 Seasons hit"

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: RONNIE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. Disbar?"

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: UNCAGE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "14. Some sporting events"

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 meeting at which a number of athletic contests are held
  • Words that mean the same thing: fit, encounter, play
  • The opposite would be: diverge
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MEETS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "20. Placed tightly"

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: WEDGEDIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "24. Philatelist's collection"

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 sheet glass cut in shapes for windows or doors
  • Words that mean the same thing: pane of glass, dot, trash
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PANES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "25. Other hand"

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: CREWMATE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "27. Yanks' rivals"

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: BOSOX

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "28. Really hit one's stride?"

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 walk clumsily
  • Words that mean the same thing: clump
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CLOMP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "31. Messy food servings"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that any gummy shapeless matter; usually unpleasant
  • Words that mean the same thing: treacle, glop, slop
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GLOPS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "34. "Go ahead, ask""

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: FIREAWAY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "35. Rarest naturally occurring element in the earth's crust"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a expert clue about science/technology.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a highly unstable radioactive element (the heaviest of the halogen series); a decay product of uranium and thorium
  • Words that mean the same thing: At, atomic number 85
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ASTATINE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "36. Energy regulators in the body"

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 located near the base of the neck
  • Words that mean the same thing: thyroid, thyroid gland
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: THYROIDS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "38. Like stars in one's eyes"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a hard clue about celebrity/entertainment.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that smiling with happiness or optimism; - lewis carroll
  • Words that mean the same thing: beamish, smiling
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TWINKLY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "39. Old-fashioned attire for a motorist"

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: CARCOAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "40. Opera heroine who slays a witch"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: GRETEL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "41. Holy places"

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 place of inviolable privacy
  • Words that mean the same thing: sanctum, sanctum sanctorum, holy
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SANCTA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "43. Good news for the office staff"

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 amount a salary is increased
  • Words that mean the same thing: elevate, conjure up, fire
  • The opposite would be: descent, level
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RAISES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "44. Japanese city on Tokyo Bay"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 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: CHIBA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "45. What loafers lack"

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 cord that is drawn through eyelets or around hooks in order to draw together two edges (as of a shoe or garment)
  • Words that mean the same thing: braid, spike, fortify
  • The opposite would be: untwine
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LACES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "48. Salon job"

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 city in the european part of russia
  • Words that mean the same thing: permanent wave, permanent, Molotov
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PERM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "49. Topic in education policy"

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 (linguistics) the form of a word after all affixes are removed
  • Words that mean the same thing: radical, staunch, bow
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STEM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "51. Sarcastic syllable"

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: HAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "52. Mixed-___"

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 act of using
  • Words that mean the same thing: role, practice, 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: USE

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 45 66.2%
Short Answer 11 16.2%
Celebrity/Entertainment 4 5.9%
History 3 4.4%
Literature 1 1.5%
Sports 1 1.5%
Food & Drink 1 1.5%
Science/Technology 1 1.5%
Geography 1 1.5%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 34
Down Clues 34
Total Clues 68
Average Answer Length 5.8 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 11 letters

Fun Tips to Solve Crossword Puzzles!

  • Start with short words first - they're usually easier!
  • Look for clues with blanks to fill in - these are like fill-in-the-blank questions at school
  • When letters cross, they must be the same in both words - this helps you check if you're right!
  • Today is Saturday, and these puzzles are usually moderate level
  • Most clues today are about general knowledge
  • The average word today has about 5 letters
  • Remember: It's okay to take breaks and come back later with fresh eyes!
  • Ask someone for help if you need it - crosswords are more fun with friends!

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

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

Last Updated: September 28, 2025 at 12:38 PM

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Saturday, January 31, 2026

XWordHint Crossword Answers January 31, 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

January 31, 2026 NYT Crossword Solutions

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. Grappling is used in this 11
2A 12. Ones who handle minor health problems? 13
3A 14. Dessert introduced to the U.S. in the 1780s, after Thomas Jefferson discovered it in France 15
4A 16. Like someone in pointe shoes, maybe 5
5A 17. ___-di-dah 3
6A 18. Say "hey," slangily 5
7A 19. They're at the tops of some ladders, informally 4
8A 20. Offering that's fresh off the press? 5
9A 22. Pyroclastic material 4
10A 23. Sheet music abbr. 3
11A 24. Deliberate 7
12A 26. Sex Pistols song disparaging the band's former label 3
13A 27. Foundation of music? 8
14A 29. Fun activity for a summer day 6
15A 31. Dice rolls from Jail to Free Parking, in Monopoly 4
16A 32. Serving of meat loaf, maybe 4
17A 33. Evil spirits 6
18A 36. Accumulates 8
19A 40. "Silly me!" 3
20A 41. Barely gets (by) 7
21A 43. Org. associated with the Wanamaker Trophy 3
22A 44. Menu bar option 4
23A 46. Tennis legend who won the French Open when she was just 16 5
24A 47. Season 4
25A 48. Protection, as from an organization 5
26A 50. Jaguar, e.g. 3
27A 51. To whom you might say "I wish ..." 5
28A 52. Southern California site whose 1909 opening was accompanied by a visit from the U.S.S. Albany 15
29A 55. Attraction at the 52-Across 13
30A 56. Old man? 11

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Grappling is used in this"

11 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "12. Ones who handle minor health problems?"

13 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a specialist in the care of babies
  • Similar words include: baby doctor, pediatrician, paediatrician
  • Pattern: _____________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PEDIATRICIANS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "14. Dessert introduced to the U.S. in the 1780s, after Thomas Jefferson discovered it in France"

15 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "16. Like someone in pointe shoes, maybe"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "17. ___-di-dah"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the syllable naming the sixth (submediant) note of a major or minor scale in solmization
  • Similar words include: la
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LAH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "18. Say "hey," slangily"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a very loud utterance (like the sound of an animal)
  • Similar words include: roar, holler, yowl
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: HOLLA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "19. They're at the tops of some ladders, informally"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the corporate executive responsible for the operations of the firm; reports to a board of directors; may appoint other managers (including a president)
  • Similar words include: CEO, chief executive officer, chief operating officer
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CEOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "20. Offering that's fresh off the press?"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a beverage made from juice pressed from apples
  • Similar words include: cyder
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CIDER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "22. Pyroclastic material"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the scum formed by oxidation at the surface of molten metals
  • Similar words include: dross, scoria
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SLAG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "23. Sheet music abbr."

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "24. Deliberate"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that have the will and intention to carry out some action
  • Similar words include: contrive, design, plan
  • Opposite of: unplanned
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PLANNED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "26. Sex Pistols song disparaging the band's former label"

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "27. Foundation of music?"

8 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "29. Fun activity for a summer day"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a day devoted to an outdoor social gathering
  • Similar words include: breeze, duck soup, piece of cake
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PICNIC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "31. Dice rolls from Jail to Free Parking, in Monopoly"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the cardinal number that is the sum of nine and one; the base of the decimal system
  • Similar words include: X, 10, ten
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TENS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "32. Serving of meat loaf, maybe"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that block consisting of a thick piece of something
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SLAB

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "33. Evil spirits"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a male demon believed to lie on sleeping persons and to have sexual intercourse with sleeping women
  • Similar words include: incubus, nightmare
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: INCUBI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "36. Accumulates"

8 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "40. "Silly me!""

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the syllable naming the first (tonic) note of any major scale in solmization
  • Similar words include: do, ut
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DOH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "41. Barely gets (by)"

7 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a harsh noise made by scraping
  • Similar words include: scratch, scrape up, kowtow
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SCRAPES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "43. Org. associated with the Wanamaker Trophy"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "44. Menu bar option"

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that prepare for publication or presentation by correcting, revising, or adapting
  • Similar words include: cut, redact, delete
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: EDIT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "46. Tennis legend who won the French Open when she was just 16"

5 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that united states tennis player (born in yugoslavia in 1973)
  • Similar words include: Monica Seles
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SELES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "47. Season"

4 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a compound formed by replacing hydrogen in an acid by a metal (or a radical that acts like a metal)
  • Similar words include: table salt, common salt, salinity
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SALT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "48. Protection, as from an organization"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that kindly endorsement and guidance
  • Similar words include: auspices, protection, egis
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: AEGIS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "50. Jaguar, e.g."

3 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a motor vehicle with four wheels; usually propelled by an internal combustion engine
  • Similar words include: elevator car, automobile, railcar
  • Pattern: ___
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CAR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "51. To whom you might say "I wish ...""

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (islam) an invisible spirit mentioned in the koran and believed by muslims to inhabit the earth and influence mankind by appearing in the form of humans or animals
  • Similar words include: djinny, djinni, djinn
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GENIE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "52. Southern California site whose 1909 opening was accompanied by a visit from the U.S.S. Albany"

15 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "55. Attraction at the 52-Across"

13 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Pattern: _____________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ROLLERCOASTER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "56. Old man?"

11 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that extinct robust human of middle paleolithic in europe and western asia
  • Similar words include: Neandertal man, neandertal, oafish
  • Pattern: ___________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: NEANDERTHAL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Guides 7
2D 2. "Peace out!" 5
3D 3. Perturb 4
4D 4. Chess legend Mikhail ___ 3
5D 5. Bolognese, Parmesan, etc. 8
6D 6. Daughter of King Minos, in myth 7
7D 7. Tree growth indicative of good air quality 6
8D 8. Part of a great deal? 3
9D 9. Opulent 4
10D 10. Tubers from which a gluten-free type of flour is derived 5
11D 11. Herman ___, Dutch ophthalmologist known for his visual acuity testing 7
12D 12. Cafe chain 6
13D 13. Major product of Milan 6
14D 14. English lesson subject, for short 5
15D 15. "Science is ___ that works": Kurt Vonnegut 5
16D 20. Training courses 7
17D 21. Yes and no, say 7
18D 24. Common folk 5
19D 25. Rings 5
20D 28. Apt name for a chef 3
21D 30. Compound in some sleep aids, familiarly 3
22D 32. Largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area 8
23D 33. What do you have in mind? 5
24D 34. "Sorry, honey" 6
25D 35. French bun 7
26D 36. Parity 7
27D 37. Variety of dog associated with King Charles 7
28D 38. More unpleasant 6
29D 39. ___ Noster (the Lord's Prayer) 5
30D 42. Capture, in a way 6
31D 45. Mr. or Mrs. 5
32D 47. Bodily partitions 5
33D 49. Room in an adobe 4
34D 51. Long cut 4
35D 53. Chaps 3
36D 54. One of three in the Horatio Henry Couldery painting "Curiosity" 3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Guides"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a wise and trusted guide and advisor
  • Similar words include: wise man, mentor
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MENTORS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. "Peace out!""

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a farewell remark
  • Similar words include: good-by, bye-bye, so long
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ADIOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. Perturb"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that cause annoyance in; disturb, especially by minor irritations
  • Similar words include: bother, rag, devil
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RILE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Chess legend Mikhail ___"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Bolognese, Parmesan, etc."

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a native or inhabitant of italy
  • Similar words include: Italian
  • Pattern: ________
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ITALIANS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. Daughter of King Minos, in myth"

7 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that beautiful daughter of minos and pasiphae; she fell in love with theseus and gave him the thread with which he found his way out of the minotaur's labyrinth
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: ARIADNE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Tree growth indicative of good air quality"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of several eruptive skin diseases characterized by hard thick lesions grouped together and resembling lichens growing on rocks
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: LICHEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Part of a great deal?"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Opulent"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that people who have possessions and wealth (considered as a group)
  • Similar words include: full-bodied, robust, plentiful
  • Opposite of: poor people, lean
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RICH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. Tubers from which a gluten-free type of flour is derived"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that edible starchy tuberous root of taro plants
  • Similar words include: taro root, dalo, eddo
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TAROS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. Herman ___, Dutch ophthalmologist known for his visual acuity testing"

7 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that dutch ophthalmologist who introduced the snellen chart to study visual acuity (1834-1908)
  • Similar words include: Hermann Snellen
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SNELLEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. Cafe chain"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "13. Major product of Milan"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that highly seasoned fatty sausage of pork and beef usually dried
  • Pattern: ______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SALAMI

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "14. English lesson subject, for short"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "15. "Science is ___ that works": Kurt Vonnegut"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any art that invokes supernatural powers
  • Similar words include: legerdemain, magical, deception
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MAGIC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "20. Training courses"

7 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a medical establishment run by a group of medical specialists
  • Similar words include: clinic
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CLINICS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "21. Yes and no, say"

7 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a statement (either spoken or written) that is made to reply to a question or request or criticism or accusation
  • Similar words include: respond, answer, response
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: REPLIES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "24. Common folk"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that one of the common people
  • Similar words include: plebeian, pleb
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PLEBS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "25. Rings"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the face of a timepiece; graduated to show the hours
  • Similar words include: telephone dial, dial
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: DIALS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "28. Apt name for a chef"

3 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "30. Compound in some sleep aids, familiarly"

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "32. Largest freshwater lake in the world by surface area"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that one of greater rank or station or quality
  • Similar words include: higher-ranking, superscript, ranking
  • Opposite of: subscript, inferior
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SUPERIOR

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "33. What do you have in mind?"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the content of cognition; the main thing you are thinking about
  • Similar words include: musical theme, estimation, approximation
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: IDEAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "34. "Sorry, honey""

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

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

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "35. French bun"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a roll of hair worn at the nape of the neck
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CHIGNON

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "36. Parity"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a state of equilibrium
  • Similar words include: equalizer, equipoise, Libra
  • Opposite of: unbalance, imbalance
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: BALANCE

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27D: "37. Variety of dog associated with King Charles"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that any of several breeds of small to medium-sized gun dogs with a long silky coat and long frilled ears
  • Pattern: _______
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SPANIEL

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28D: "38. More unpleasant"

6 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that displeasing to the senses
  • Similar words include: worthless, surly, horrible
  • Opposite of: beautiful
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: UGLIER

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29D: "39. ___ Noster (the Lord's Prayer)"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that an informal use of the latin word for father; sometimes used by british schoolboys or used facetiously
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: PATER

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30D: "42. Capture, in a way"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that anything (such as a document or a phonograph record or a photograph) providing permanent evidence of or information about past events
  • Similar words include: record book, memorialise, book
  • Opposite of: erase
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: RECORD

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31D: "45. Mr. or Mrs."

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a heading that names a statute or legislative bill; may give a brief summary of the matters it deals with
  • Similar words include: claim, rubric, entitle
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: TITLE

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32D: "47. Bodily partitions"

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that (anatomy) a dividing partition between two tissues or cavities
  • Similar words include: septum
  • Pattern: _____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: SEPTA

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33D: "49. Room in an adobe"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

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

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34D: "51. Long cut"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that a wound made by cutting
  • Similar words include: cut, slash, slice
  • Pattern: ____
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: GASH

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35D: "53. Chaps"

3 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that the force of workers available
  • Similar words include: humanity, humankind, Man
  • Opposite of: civilian, woman
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: MEN

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36D: "54. One of three in the Horatio Henry Couldery painting "Curiosity""

3 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

  • Think of something that feline mammal usually having thick soft fur and no ability to roar: domestic cats; wildcats
  • Similar words include: bozo, cat-o'-nine-tails, Caterpillar
  • Opposite of: keep down
Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)
Answer: CAT

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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

30 Across Clues
36 Down Clues
66 Total Clues

More NYT Crossword Help

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Last updated: January 31, 2026 at 04:47 AM

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