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January 29, 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Wednesday, January 29, 2020

Difficulty Level: Medium Tuesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 76 (35 Across, 41 Down)

Average Word Length: 4.9 letters

January 29, 2020 Wednesday NYT - Complete Across Solutions

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Texting pal, maybe 3
2A 4. Tank top? 6
3A 10. Risky thing to go out on 4
4A 14. QB Manning 3
5A 15. Lofty ambitions 6
6A 16. Single's bars? 4
7A 17. Want an actress from "Soul Food"? 10
8A 19. The buck stops here 4
9A 20. Creepazoid's gaze 4
10A 21. Stripped (of) 3
11A 22. Hat for a chef 5
12A 23. Want an actor from "Wonder Woman"? 12
13A 27. Cobbler's supply 5
14A 28. Vow to get even? 3
15A 29. Pennsylvania N.L. team, familiarly 5
16A 30. Summer hangout 4
17A 32. Take rudely 4
18A 36. Want an actress from "Mad Men"? 15
19A 39. They're often lit 4
20A 40. Company whose bathroom sinks are named for Swedish bodies of water 4
21A 41. Female compadre 5
22A 42. Words of honor 3
23A 43. Playground rebuttal 5
24A 44. Want an actor from "Rogue One"? 12
25A 49. Deck divided into the Major and Minor Arcana 5
26A 50. Org. seeking clean skies 3
27A 51. By the dawn's early light? 4
28A 54. Home of the first man to walk on the moon, the first American to orbit Earth and the first American woman to walk in space 4
29A 55. Want an actor from "Here Come the Girls"? 10
30A 58. Just pretend 4
31A 59. Robotic supervillain in the first "Avengers" sequel 6
32A 60. Bad marks 3
33A 61. Colorful neckwear 4
34A 62. Attempts it 6
35A 63. Part of a tavern 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. Texting pal, maybe"

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: BFF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "4. Tank top?"

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: GASCAP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "10. Risky thing to go out on"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that one of the jointed appendages of an animal used for locomotion or grasping: arm; leg; wing; flipper
  • Words that mean the same thing: arm, tree branch, branch
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LIMB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. QB Manning"

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: ELI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "15. Lofty ambitions"

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

    The answer is: IDEALS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "16. Single's bars?"

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

    The answer is: ARIA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "17. Want an actress from "Soul Food"?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: LONGFORNIA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "19. The buck stops here"

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 sloping land (especially the slope beside a body of water)
  • Words that mean the same thing: money box, depository financial institution, banking company
  • The opposite would be: mistrust, withdraw
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BANK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "20. Creepazoid's gaze"

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 facial expression of contempt or scorn; the upper lip curls
  • Words that mean the same thing: sneer
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LEER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "21. Stripped (of)"

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 relieve from
  • Words that mean the same thing: free, disembarrass
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RID

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "22. Hat for a chef"

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 tall white hat with a pouched crown; worn by chefs
  • Words that mean the same thing: turban, pillbox
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TOQUE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "23. Want an actor from "Wonder Woman"?"

Quick Info: This answer has 12 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: PINEFORCHRIS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "27. Cobbler's supply"

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 colloid that has a continuous liquid phase in which a solid is suspended in a liquid
  • Words that mean the same thing: Sol, so, sole
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SOLES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "28. Vow to get even?"

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 informal debt instrument; representing `i owe you'
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IOU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "29. Pennsylvania N.L. team, familiarly"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: PHILS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "30. Summer hangout"

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 excavation that is (usually) filled with water
  • Words that mean the same thing: pocket billiards, syndicate, consortium
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: POOL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "32. Take rudely"

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 mechanical device for gripping an object
  • Words that mean the same thing: snaffle, snatch, seize
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GRAB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "36. Want an actress from "Mad Men"?"

Quick Info: This answer has 15 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: JONESFORJANUARY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "39. They're often lit"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a chronic drinker
  • Words that mean the same thing: rummy, inebriate, drunk
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SOTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "40. Company whose bathroom sinks are named for Swedish bodies of water"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 letters. It's a hard 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: IKEA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "41. Female compadre"

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: AMIGA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "42. Words of honor"

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

    The answer is: ODE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "43. Playground rebuttal"

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 24 Across: "44. Want an actor from "Rogue One"?"

Quick Info: This answer has 12 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: YENFORDONNIE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "49. Deck divided into the Major and Minor Arcana"

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 any of a set of (usually 72) cards that include 22 cards representing virtues and vices and death and fortune etc.; used by fortunetellers
  • Words that mean the same thing: tarot card
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TAROT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "50. Org. seeking clean skies"

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 independent federal agency established to coordinate programs aimed at reducing pollution and protecting the environment
  • Words that mean the same thing: Environmental Protection Agency
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EPA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "51. By the dawn's early light?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: EAST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "54. Home of the first man to walk on the moon, the first American to orbit Earth and the first American woman to walk in space"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a midwestern state in north central united states in the great lakes region
  • Words that mean the same thing: OH, Buckeye State, Ohio River
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OHIO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "55. Want an actor from "Here Come the Girls"?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: HOPEFORBOB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "58. Just pretend"

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 act of mocking or ridiculing
  • Words that mean the same thing: bemock
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MOCK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "59. Robotic supervillain in the first "Avengers" sequel"

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: ULTRON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "60. Bad marks"

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: EFS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "61. Colorful neckwear"

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 long thin fluffy scarf of feathers or fur
  • Words that mean the same thing: feather boa, boa
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BOAS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "62. Attempts it"

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: HASAGO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "63. Part of a tavern"

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 sound made by a gentle blow
  • Words that mean the same thing: solicit, water faucet, exploit
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TAP

    Great job if you got it right!

NYT Wednesday Crossword Down Clues - January 29, 2020 Answers

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Drooping flower feature 4
2D 2. Sheet of ice 4
3D 3. Common kind of pen for illustrators 9
4D 4. Many an animated meme 3
5D 5. Thinks the world of 6
6D 6. Stroke on a letter 5
7D 7. "Leave it to me!" 5
8D 8. Comedian Wong 3
9D 9. Ad by MADD, e.g. 3
10D 10. Something most people don't go into more than once a year 5
11D 11. Like many dinar spenders 5
12D 12. Demerit 5
13D 13. Lie in the sun 4
14D 18. Car fronts 7
15D 22. Turkey Day, e.g.: Abbr. 3
16D 24. Suffix with good and willing 4
17D 25. Spanish table wine 5
18D 26. Mixer option 4
19D 27. "Out, out!" 4
20D 29. Nightcap go-with, in brief 3
21D 30. Game of checkers? 5
22D 31. Danish coins 3
23D 32. More sticky and viscous 7
24D 33. Increase the stakes 9
25D 34. Mythical ship that gave its name to a constellation 4
26D 35. Words before nose or hair 3
27D 37. Generic dog name 4
28D 38. Bread accompanying saag paneer 4
29D 42. ___-forgotten 3
30D 43. Addled 6
31D 44. Happy cowpoke's cry 5
32D 45. Cable news anchor Hill 5
33D 46. Quiet corners 5
34D 47. Univ. units 5
35D 48. "La Traviata," for one 5
36D 49. It's monumental 4
37D 52. Place to veg 4
38D 53. Medicinal qty. 4
39D 55. "Who woulda thunk ...?" 3
40D 56. Suffix with crap 3
41D 57. John Winston ___ Lennon 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. Drooping flower feature"

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 hollow device made of metal that makes a ringing sound when struck
  • Words that mean the same thing: buzzer, Vanessa Bell, chime
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BELL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Sheet of ice"

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 flat mass of ice (smaller than an ice field) floating at sea
  • Words that mean the same thing: ice floe
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FLOE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Common kind of pen for illustrators"

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: FINEPOINT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Many an animated meme"

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: GIF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Thinks the world of"

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 love intensely
  • Words that mean the same thing: adore
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ADORES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Stroke on a letter"

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 short line at the end of the main strokes of a character
  • Words that mean the same thing: seriph
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SERIF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. "Leave it to me!""

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: CANDO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Comedian Wong"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that united states prizefighter who won the world heavyweight championship three times (born in 1942)
  • Words that mean the same thing: Cassius Clay, Muhammad Ali, Cassius Marcellus Clay
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Ad by MADD, 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 a protein manufactured exclusively by the prostate gland; psa is produced for the ejaculate where it liquifies the semen and allows sperm cells to swim freely; elevated levels of psa in blood serum are associated with benign prostatic hyperplasia and prostate cancer
  • Words that mean the same thing: prostate specific antigen
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PSA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Something most people don't go into more than once a year"

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 social class comprising those who do manual labor or work for wages
  • Words that mean the same thing: parturiency, lying-in, grind
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LABOR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Like many dinar spenders"

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 native or inhabitant of iraq
  • Words that mean the same thing: Iraki
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IRAQI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Demerit"

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 an arithmetic operation in which the difference between two numbers is calculated
  • Words that mean the same thing: negative, subtraction
  • The opposite would be: plus
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MINUS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. Lie in the sun"

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 cook and make edible by putting in a hot oven
  • Words that mean the same thing: broil
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BAKE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "18. Car fronts"

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 small opening (like a window in a door) through which business can be transacted
  • Words that mean the same thing: grillwork, grille, radiator grille
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GRILLES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "22. Turkey Day, e.g.: Abbr."

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: THU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "24. Suffix with good and willing"

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 strip of land projecting into a body of water
  • Words that mean the same thing: cape
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NESS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "25. Spanish table wine"

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 dry red table wine from the rioja region of northern spain
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RIOJA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "26. Mixer option"

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 large genus of african trees bearing kola nuts
  • Words that mean the same thing: Aspinwall, Colon, dope
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: COLA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "27. "Out, out!""

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that drive away by crying `shoo!'
  • Words that mean the same thing: shoo off, shoo away
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SHOO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "29. Nightcap go-with, in brief"

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: PJS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "30. Game of checkers?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that fire iron consisting of a metal rod with a handle; used to stir a fire
  • Words that mean the same thing: poker game, stove poker, salamander
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: POKER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "31. Danish coins"

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 mineral that contains metal that is valuable enough to be mined
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ORE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "32. More sticky and viscous"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that having the sticky properties of an adhesive
  • Words that mean the same thing: glutinous, mucilaginous, pasty
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GUMMIER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "33. Increase the stakes"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: RAISEABET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "34. Mythical ship that gave its name to a constellation"

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 formerly a large constellation in the southern hemisphere between canis major and the southern cross; now divided into carina and pyxis and puppis and vela
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ARGO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "35. Words before nose or hair"

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: BYA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "37. Generic dog 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: FIDO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "38. Bread accompanying saag paneer"

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 leavened bread baked in a clay oven in india; usually shaped like a teardrop
  • Words that mean the same thing: nan
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NAAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "42. ___-forgotten"

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, ofttimes, frequently
  • 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 30 Down: "43. Addled"

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: INAFOG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "44. Happy cowpoke's cry"

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 person who is not very intelligent or interested in culture
  • Words that mean the same thing: yokel, rube, bumpkin
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: YAHOO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "45. Cable news anchor Hill"

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 any plant of the genus erica
  • Words that mean the same thing: true heath
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ERICA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "46. Quiet corners"

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 sheltered and secluded place
  • Words that mean the same thing: corner, nook
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NOOKS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "47. Univ. units"

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: DEPTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "48. "La Traviata," for one"

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 drama set to music; consists of singing with orchestral accompaniment and an orchestral overture and interludes
  • Words that mean the same thing: opera house
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OPERA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "49. It's monumental"

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 place for the burial of a corpse (especially beneath the ground and marked by a tombstone)
  • Words that mean the same thing: grave
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TOMB

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "52. Place to veg"

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 upholstered seat for more than one person
  • Words that mean the same thing: lounge, couch
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SOFA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Down: "53. Medicinal qty."

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: TBSP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Down: "55. "Who woulda thunk ...?""

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: HUH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 40 Down: "56. Suffix with crap"

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 leaf or strip from a leaf of the talipot palm used in india for writing paper
  • Words that mean the same thing: olla
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OLA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 41 Down: "57. John Winston ___ Lennon"

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 united states musician (born in japan) who married john lennon and collaborated with him on recordings (born in 1933)
  • Words that mean the same thing: Yoko Ono
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ONO

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 49 64.5%
Short Answer 18 23.7%
Celebrity/Entertainment 5 6.6%
Sports 2 2.6%
Food & Drink 1 1.3%
Abbreviation 1 1.3%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 35
Down Clues 41
Total Clues 76
Average Answer Length 4.9 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 15 letters

Fun Tips to Solve Crossword Puzzles!

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

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 10:39 AM

Monday, November 17, 2025

All NYT Down Clues November 17, 2025 - 41 Vertical Answers with Hints

Monday's NYT Down Nov 17 - Full Vertical Grid Solutions

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 41 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: Xwordhint Crossword Answers September_13 | September 03 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | October 05 2021 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for November 17, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Monday, November 17, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date November 17, 2025
Day of Week Monday
Total Down Clues 41 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Medium

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 41 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. Less risky
2 Down 2. Tot's three-wheeler
3 Down 3. Comic actor Seth
4 Down 4. "If you want me to be honest ..."
5 Down 5. Golfing standard
6 Down 6. Region
7 Down 7. Intel product
8 Down 8. Makes unfair, in a way
9 Down 9. Receives from a will
10 Down 10. Nickname for Dorothy
11 Down 11. Insect that stings
12 Down 12. Home to Hanoi and Hong Kong
13 Down 13. Cincinnati team
14 Down 18. ___ Woods, "Legally Blonde" protagonist
15 Down 22. Sch. with a T station
16 Down 24. Amazement
17 Down 26. Lumberjack's tool
18 Down 28. Letters before "And on that farm ..."
19 Down 29. The "T" of L.G.B.T.Q.I.A.+
20 Down 30. Platoon V.I.P.
21 Down 31. Sunrise direction
22 Down 32. Ping-Pong dividers
23 Down 33. Like most cheeses with rinds
24 Down 34. Nike's swoosh, e.g.
25 Down 35. Punxsutawney Phil, for one
26 Down 39. Classic arcade game with bull's-eye rings
27 Down 40. Strongly desires
28 Down 42. Like a centenarian
29 Down 43. "For suresies"
30 Down 45. Purchase
31 Down 46. Bottle served at a trattoria
32 Down 49. Exclamation while pulling a rabbit from a hat
33 Down 50. The King of Rock and Roll
34 Down 51. Marsh plants
35 Down 52. Object of adoration
36 Down 53. Zero
37 Down 55. Rights advocacy org. since 1920
38 Down 56. Dermatologist's focus
39 Down 57. "It ___ that simple ..."
40 Down 60. Quick punch
41 Down 61. Foreign policy grp.

Detailed Hints and Answers for All Down Clues

Need help? Here are comprehensive hints and answers for each Down clue. Also check these helpful guides:

Complete Down Solutions:


1 Down: "1. Less risky"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: S___R
  • Similar words: dependable, secure
  • Opposite of: dangerous
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: free from danger or the risk of harm
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SAFER


2 Down: "2. Tot's three-wheeler"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: T___E
  • Similar words: velocipede, tricycle
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a vehicle with three wheels that is moved by foot pedals
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TRIKE


3 Down: "3. Comic actor Seth"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: R___N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ROGEN


4 Down: "4. "If you want me to be honest ...""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IMUSTSAY


5 Down: "5. Golfing standard"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'R'
  • Similar words: equation, equality
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PAR


6 Down: "6. Region"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: A__A
  • Similar words: surface area, sphere
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AREA


7 Down: "7. Intel product"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: C__P
  • Similar words: cut off, buffalo chip
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a small fragment of something broken off from the whole
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CHIP


8 Down: "8. Makes unfair, in a way"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: R__S
  • Similar words: rigging, swindle
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RIGS


9 Down: "9. Receives from a will"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: I______S
  • Similar words: inherit
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: obtain from someone after their death
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer INHERITS


10 Down: "10. Nickname for Dorothy"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'T'
  • Similar words: constellate, back breaker
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a very small circular shape
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DOT


11 Down: "11. Insect that stings"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: B_______E
  • Similar words: humblebee
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: robust hairy social bee of temperate regions
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BUMBLEBEE


12 Down: "12. Home to Hanoi and Hong Kong"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: A__A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ASIA


13 Down: "13. Cincinnati team"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: R__S
  • Similar words: Red, Red River
  • Opposite of: gain
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer REDS


14 Down: "18. ___ Woods, "Legally Blonde" protagonist"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: E__E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ELLE


15 Down: "22. Sch. with a T station"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'T'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an engineering university in Cambridge
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MIT


16 Down: "24. Amazement"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'E'
  • Similar words: veneration, reverence
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an overwhelming feeling of wonder or admiration
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AWE


17 Down: "26. Lumberjack's tool"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'E'
  • Similar words: ax
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AXE


18 Down: "28. Letters before "And on that farm ...""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: E___O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EIEIO


19 Down: "29. The "T" of L.G.B.T.Q.I.A.+"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: T___S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TRANS


20 Down: "30. Platoon V.I.P."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: S___E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SARGE


21 Down: "31. Sunrise direction"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: E__T
  • Similar words: due east, eastward
  • Opposite of: west
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the cardinal compass point that is at 90 degrees
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EAST


22 Down: "32. Ping-Pong dividers"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: N__S
  • Similar words: profit, net profit
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NETS


23 Down: "33. Like most cheeses with rinds"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: A__D
  • Similar words: senior, elderly
  • Opposite of: young
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: people who are old collectively
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AGED


24 Down: "34. Nike's swoosh, e.g."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: L__O
  • Similar words: logotype
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a company emblem or device
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LOGO


25 Down: "35. Punxsutawney Phil, for one"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'G'
  • Word pattern: G_______G
  • Similar words: Marmota monax, woodchuck
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: reddish brown North American marmot
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GROUNDHOG


26 Down: "39. Classic arcade game with bull's-eye rings"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: S______L
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SKEEBALL


27 Down: "40. Strongly desires"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: P______R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PINESFOR


28 Down: "42. Like a centenarian"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'D'
  • Similar words: sometime, former
  • Opposite of: young
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: past times (especially in the phrase `in days of old')
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OLD


29 Down: "43. "For suresies""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'F'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DEF


30 Down: "45. Purchase"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'Y'
  • Similar words: bargain, purchase
  • Opposite of: sell
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an advantageous purchase
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BUY


31 Down: "46. Bottle served at a trattoria"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'V' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: V__O
  • Similar words: wine
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: fermented juice (of grapes especially)
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer VINO


32 Down: "49. Exclamation while pulling a rabbit from a hat"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'V' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: V___A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer VOILA


33 Down: "50. The King of Rock and Roll"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: E___S
  • Similar words: loony toons, superman
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: street name for lysergic acid diethylamide
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ELVIS


34 Down: "51. Marsh plants"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: R___S
  • Similar words: John Reed, Walter Reed
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer REEDS


35 Down: "52. Object of adoration"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: I__L
  • Similar words: beau ideal, god
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a material effigy that is worshipped
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IDOL


36 Down: "53. Zero"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: N__E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 36

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NONE


37 Down: "55. Rights advocacy org. since 1920"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'U'
  • Word pattern: A__U
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 37

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ACLU


38 Down: "56. Dermatologist's focus"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: S__N
  • Similar words: cutis, shinny
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 38

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SKIN


39 Down: "57. "It ___ that simple ...""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: I__T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 39

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ISNT


40 Down: "60. Quick punch"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'J' and ends with 'B'
  • Similar words: poking, jabbing
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a sharp hand gesture (resembling a blow)
  • This is Down clue number 40

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer JAB


41 Down: "61. Foreign policy grp."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'C'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 41

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NSC

Expert Strategies for Solving Down Clues

Master the vertical clues with these professional tips:

Why Start with Down Clues?

  • Down clues often reveal key letters for intersecting words
  • Vertical patterns can unlock difficult sections
  • Many prefixes and suffixes run vertically
  • Down answers often help solve Across clues

Down Clue Patterns to Recognize

  1. Fill-in-the-blank clues: These are usually the easiest Down entries
  2. Prefixes and suffixes: Common word parts often run vertically
  3. Abbreviations: Look for clues with "Abbr." or shortened forms
  4. Plural indicators: Words ending in 'S' are common in Down
  5. Pop culture references: Names and titles often appear vertically

Time-Saving Down Techniques

Technique How It Helps
Scan all Down first Get a mental map of the vertical flow
Fill short Down words 3-4 letter words are often prefixes or connectors
Use crossing letters Across letters help confirm Down answers
Look for themes Related Down answers often share a theme

Frequently Asked Questions About Down Clues

What are Down clues in crossword puzzles?

Down clues are the vertical entries in a crossword puzzle that read from top to bottom. They're numbered and correspond to specific columns in the grid.

Should I solve Down or Across clues first?

Many solvers alternate between Down and Across clues to build momentum. Down clues can help unlock difficult sections by providing key intersecting letters. The best approach is to solve the clues you find easiest first, regardless of direction.

How many Down clues are in today's puzzle?

Today's NYT crossword has 41 Down clues.

Are Down clues easier than Across clues?

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

How do Down clues interact with Across clues?

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


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

Last Updated: November 17, 2025 at 05:14 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, November 17 2025 down clues