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Thursday, September 11, 2025

March 31, 2022 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Thursday, March 31, 2022

Difficulty Level: Moderate Wednesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 79 (40 Across, 39 Down)

Average Word Length: 5.3 letters

March 31, 2022 NYT Clues Solutions

NYT Thursday Crossword Across Clues - March 31, 2022 Solutions

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Beat in chess 5
2A 5. Astronomer who lost part of his nose in a sword duel 5
3A 10. Classic Jumbotron shout-out 5
4A 14. Frost 4
5A 15. Takes a bit off 5
6A 16. Certain newspaper column 4
7A 17. Boot 4
8A 18. Sorna y Nublar, en "Jurassic Park" 5
9A 19. Long locks 4
10A 20. Educator in a smock 10
11A 22. Figure seen on Athena's shield 6
12A 23. Thumbs-up 6
13A 24. Skim 5
14A 26. Bit of letter-shaped hardware 4
15A 28. Rangers' domain 7
16A 32. Thoroughbred, e.g. 9
17A 36. FedEx Cup organizer 7
18A 37. ___ of war 3
19A 38. Bluish hues 5
20A 40. Muslim leaders 5
21A 41. "A Promised Land" author, 2020 5
22A 43. Get into trouble, in a way 5
23A 45. Grassy expanse 3
24A 46. Some drinking vessels 7
25A 48. Kind of zone in a city 9
26A 50. 1948 Literature Nobelist 7
27A 52. Youngest player to score in the FIFA World Cup (age 17) 4
28A 53. Two-word tribute 5
29A 55. Bottle topper 6
30A 59. Profession in an O'Neill title 6
31A 62. What "should be made by filling a glass with gin, then waving it in the general direction of Italy," per Noël Coward 10
32A 64. Declare 4
33A 65. Kid-lit character with a green suit and gold crown 5
34A 66. Midrange club 4
35A 67. Award-winning Ward 4
36A 68. Chess : check :: go : ___ 5
37A 69. "Pretty please?" 4
38A 70. Geekish 5
39A 71. Fixes 5
40A 72. Big name in printers 5

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. Beat in chess"

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 engage in sexual intercourse
  • Words that mean the same thing: match, felt, matt-up
  • The opposite would be: unmated, unsnarl
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MATED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "5. Astronomer who lost part of his nose in a sword duel"

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 danish astronomer whose observations of the planets provided the basis for kepler's laws of planetary motion (1546-1601)
  • Words that mean the same thing: Tycho Brahe
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BRAHE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "10. Classic Jumbotron shout-out"

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: HIMOM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "14. Frost"

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 ice crystals forming a white deposit (especially on objects outside)
  • Words that mean the same thing: gray-headed, grey-haired, gray-haired
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HOAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "15. Takes a bit off"

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 decrease gradually or bit by bit
  • Words that mean the same thing: peel, pare down, whittle
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PARES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "16. Certain newspaper column"

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: OPED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "17. Boot"

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 remove from a position or office
  • Words that mean the same thing: boot out, expel, drum out
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OUST

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "18. Sorna y Nublar, en "Jurassic Park""

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ISLAS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "19. Long locks"

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 long coarse hair growing from the crest of the animal's neck
  • Words that mean the same thing: head of hair
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MANE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "20. Educator in a smock"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ARTTEACHER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "22. Figure seen on Athena's shield"

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 (greek mythology) a woman transformed into a gorgon by athena; she was slain by perseus
  • Words that mean the same thing: medusoid, medusan
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MEDUSA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "23. Thumbs-up"

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 agreement with a statement or proposal to do something
  • Words that mean the same thing: acquiescence, acquiesce, accede
  • The opposite would be: dissent
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ASSENT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "24. Skim"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a easy 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: NOFAT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "26. Bit of letter-shaped hardware"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: TNUT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "28. Rangers' domain"

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 the trees and other plants in a large densely wooded area
  • Words that mean the same thing: wood, woods, forest
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FORESTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "32. Thoroughbred, e.g."

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a horse bred for racing
  • Words that mean the same thing: bangtail, race horse
  • The word looks like this: _________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RACEHORSE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "36. FedEx Cup organizer"

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: PGATOUR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "37. ___ of war"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that droplets of water vapor suspended in the air near the ground
  • Words that mean the same thing: haze, becloud, murk
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FOG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "38. Bluish hues"

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 blue-green color or pigment
  • Words that mean the same thing: teal, blue green, bluish green
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TEALS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "40. Muslim leaders"

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 (islam) the man who leads prayers in a mosque; for shiites an imam is a recognized authority on islamic theology and law and a spiritual guide
  • Words that mean the same thing: imaum, imam
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IMAMS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "41. "A Promised Land" author, 2020"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: OBAMA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "43. Get into trouble, in a way"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: RATON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "45. Grassy expanse"

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 unit of length of thread or yarn
  • Words that mean the same thing: ley, grazing land, pasture
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LEA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "46. Some drinking vessels"

Quick Info: This answer has 7 letters. It's a medium clue about food & drink.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a drinking glass with a base and stem
  • Words that mean the same thing: chalice, goblet
  • The word looks like this: _______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GOBLETS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "48. Kind of zone in a city"

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

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "50. 1948 Literature Nobelist"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: TSELIOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "52. Youngest player to score in the FIFA World Cup (age 17)"

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

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "53. Two-word tribute"

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: TOYOU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "55. Bottle topper"

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 small projection of a mammary gland
  • Words that mean the same thing: mamilla, pap, tit
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: NIPPLE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "59. Profession in an O'Neill title"

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 someone who cuts and delivers ice
  • Words that mean the same thing: hatchet man
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ICEMAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "62. What "should be made by filling a glass with gin, then waving it in the general direction of Italy," per Noël Coward"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: DRYMARTINI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "64. Declare"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: AVOW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "65. Kid-lit character with a green suit and gold crown"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an imaginary elephant that appears in a series of french books for children
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BABAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "66. Midrange club"

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 heavy ductile magnetic metallic element; is silver-white in pure form but readily rusts; used in construction and tools and armament; plays a role in the transport of oxygen by the blood
  • Words that mean the same thing: iron out, branding iron, cast-iron
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: IRON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "67. Award-winning Ward"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SELA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Across: "68. Chess : check :: go : ___"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ATARI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Across: "69. "Pretty please?""

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: CANI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Across: "70. Geekish"

Quick Info: This answer has 5 letters. It's a easy 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: NERDY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Across: "71. Fixes"

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 sewing that repairs a worn or torn hole (especially in a garment)
  • Words that mean the same thing: patch, bushel, fix
  • The opposite would be: break
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MENDS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 40 Across: "72. Big name in printers"

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: EPSON

    Great job if you got it right!

NYT Thursday Crossword Down Clues - March 31, 2022 Answers

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Now: Sp. 5
2D 2. Talks up 5
3D 3. Some bridge positions 5
4D 4. Leader of the house band on "The Muppet Show" 7
5D 5. Low-budget feature 8
6D 6. Like decisions made on a dare, typically 4
7D 7. "Stormy Weather" composer 5
8D 8. Learn secondhand 6
9D 9. Either end of a school bus? 3
10D 10. Side that usually has the most supporters 8
11D 11. Device used in interactive museum displays 4
12D 12. What a "hamburger button" opens 4
13D 13. Dedicated works 4
14D 21. Reader's jotting, e.g. 10
15D 22. Reader's jottings ... or a hint to this puzzle's theme 10
16D 25. Fancy-pants 3
17D 27. Title derived from "Caesar" 4
18D 29. Most of a sugar cane 5
19D 30. Marisa of "In the Bedroom" 5
20D 31. Writer Sontag 5
21D 32. Underway 5
22D 33. Some salads 5
23D 34. French "equivalent" 5
24D 35. Gusto 4
25D 39. Dot on a subway map 4
26D 42. Dissolve 8
27D 44. Scan options for the claustrophobic 8
28D 47. Kind of milk or sauce 3
29D 49. Put on sale, say 7
30D 51. So far 6
31D 54. Densely packed, in a way 5
32D 56. Under-the-sink fixture 5
33D 57. Animals depicted on the Ishtar Gate 5
34D 58. Film composer Morricone 5
35D 59. Tried something? 4
36D 60. At any time 4
37D 61. The blue part of blue cheese 4
38D 63. About .914 meters 4
39D 65. "Pow!" 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. Now: Sp."

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: AHORA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Talks up"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that someone who buys tickets to an event in order to resell them at a profit
  • Words that mean the same thing: shoot a line, brag, gasconade
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TOUTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Some bridge positions"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the cardinal compass point that is at 90 degrees
  • Words that mean the same thing: due east, eastward, eastern United States
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EASTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Leader of the house band on "The Muppet Show""

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: DRTEETH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Low-budget feature"

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: BPICTURE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Like decisions made on a dare, typically"

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 any red eruption of the skin
  • Words that mean the same thing: foolhardy, reckless, skin rash
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RASH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. "Stormy Weather" composer"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ARLEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. Learn secondhand"

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: HEAROF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Either end of a school bus?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a radioactive transuranic element produced by bombarding plutonium with neutrons
  • Words that mean the same thing: einsteinium, atomic number 99, Es
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ESS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. Side that usually has the most supporters"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: HOMETEAM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. Device used in interactive museum displays"

Quick Info: This answer has 4 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: IPAD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. What a "hamburger button" opens"

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 list of dishes available at a restaurant
  • Words that mean the same thing: fare, computer menu, bill of fare
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MENU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "13. Dedicated works"

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 lyric poem with complex stanza forms
  • Words that mean the same thing: ode
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ODES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "21. Reader's jotting, e.g."

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a hard clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a comment or instruction (usually added)
  • Words that mean the same thing: annotating, note, notation
  • The word looks like this: __________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ANNOTATION

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "22. Reader's jottings ... or a hint to this puzzle's theme"

Quick Info: This answer has 10 letters. It's a expert clue about general knowledge.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that notes written in the margin
  • The word looks like this: __________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MARGINALIA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "25. Fancy-pants"

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 man who is much concerned with his dress and appearance
  • Words that mean the same thing: swell, dude, fashion plate
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FOP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "27. Title derived from "Caesar""

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 male monarch or emperor (especially of russia prior to 1917)
  • Words that mean the same thing: czar, tzar
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TSAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "29. Most of a sugar cane"

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 material consisting of seed coverings and small pieces of stem or leaves that have been separated from the seeds
  • Words that mean the same thing: chaff, shuck, angry walk
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STALK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "30. Marisa of "In the Bedroom""

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: TOMEI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "31. Writer Sontag"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SUSAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "32. Underway"

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

    The answer is: AFOOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "33. Some salads"

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: COBBS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "34. French "equivalent""

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: EGALE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "35. Gusto"

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 feeling of strong eagerness (usually in favor of a person or cause)
  • Words that mean the same thing: ardor, zeal, dash
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ELAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "39. Dot on a subway map"

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 event of something ending
  • Words that mean the same thing: bar, end, closure
  • The opposite would be: continue, continuant consonant
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STOP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "42. Dissolve"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: MELTAWAY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "44. Scan options for the claustrophobic"

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: OPENMRIS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "47. Kind of milk or sauce"

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 source of oil; used for forage and soil improvement and as food
  • Words that mean the same thing: soybean plant, soya bean, soja bean
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SOY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "49. Put on sale, say"

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: REPRICE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "51. So far"

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: TODATE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "54. Densely packed, in a way"

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 relating to or concerned with a city or densely populated area
  • The opposite would be: rural
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: URBAN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "56. Under-the-sink fixture"

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: PTRAP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "57. Animals depicted on the Ishtar Gate"

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 gregarious predatory feline of africa and india having a tawny coat with a shaggy mane in the male
  • Words that mean the same thing: lion, king of beasts, social lion
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LIONS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "58. Film composer Morricone"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: ENNIO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "59. Tried something?"

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 occurrence of something
  • Words that mean the same thing: typeface, face, suit
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CASE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "60. At any time"

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 at any time
  • Words that mean the same thing: always, of all time, ever so
  • The opposite would be: never
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EVER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "61. The blue part of blue cheese"

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 distinctive form in which a thing is made
  • Words that mean the same thing: form, cast, work
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MOLD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Down: "63. About .914 meters"

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 unit of length equal to 3 feet; defined as 91.44 centimeters; originally taken to be the average length of a stride
  • Words that mean the same thing: grand, G, one thousand
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: YARD

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Down: "65. "Pow!""

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an ancient city in southeastern iran; destroyed by an earthquake in 2003
  • Words that mean the same thing: blast, eruption, clap
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BAM

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 61 77.2%
History 6 7.6%
Short Answer 5 6.3%
Music 2 2.5%
Celebrity/Entertainment 1 1.3%
Food & Drink 1 1.3%
Geography 1 1.3%
Sports 1 1.3%
Literature 1 1.3%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 40
Down Clues 39
Total Clues 79
Average Answer Length 5.3 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 10 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 Thursday, 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!

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 10, 2025 at 10:39 PM

on No comments:

Wednesday, September 17, 2025

Today's NYT Crossword Down Clues September 17, 2025 - Complete Top-to-Bottom Answers

All NYT Down Clues September 17, 2025 - 44 Vertical Answers with Hints

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 44 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: Monday August 05 2024 NYT Crossword | Xwordhint Crossword Answers June 03 | December 02 2022 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for September 17, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Wednesday, September 17, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date September 17, 2025
Day of Week Wednesday
Total Down Clues 44 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Tricky

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 44 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. ___ Club
2 Down 2. Actress Dunham
3 Down 3. Apollo mission mementos
4 Down 4. Alternative to a strike [cough cough]
5 Down 5. Variety
6 Down 6. Brooks & ___ (country duo)
7 Down 7. Literary download
8 Down 8. Anime style involving giant robots
9 Down 9. Rocksteady precursor
10 Down 10. Soothing home remedy for puffy eyes
11 Down 11. Spanish rice
12 Down 12. Sorcerous elder of folklore
13 Down 13. Garden hose problems
14 Down 16. Go over lightly
15 Down 19. Enemy agency in "Get Smart"
16 Down 23. ___ Maria (liqueur)
17 Down 26. Beatles sobriquet
18 Down 28. See 68-Down
19 Down 29. Slightly
20 Down 30. Go pit-a-pat
21 Down 31. Enjoy
22 Down 35. Texter's [!!!]
23 Down 36. Make "it," in a kids' game
24 Down 37. Ripening agent
25 Down 39. Body of policy advisers
26 Down 40. Take home
27 Down 41. Bird named for a Titan
28 Down 43. Like some short tennis matches
29 Down 44. Contrite answer to "Who put the empty ice cream carton back in the freezer?"
30 Down 47. Legendary sea monsters
31 Down 49. Some bottled waters
32 Down 51. String tightener on a guitar
33 Down 53. Ear covering
34 Down 54. Screwballs
35 Down 55. Director Kurosawa
36 Down 56. Caramel-filled candies
37 Down 57. Actress Palmer of "Nope"
38 Down 58. Outie's counterpart
39 Down 59. Hung on the clothesline
40 Down 63. Vape pen, informally
41 Down 65. When Hamilton arrives in New York City, in "Hamilton"
42 Down 66. Some ring decisions, in brief
43 Down 68. With 28-Down, longtime McDonald's chief
44 Down 70. Comedian Jo

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. ___ Club"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: E__S
  • Similar words: moose, elk
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ELKS

2 Down: "2. Actress Dunham"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: L__A
  • Similar words: Lena River
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LENA

3 Down: "3. Apollo mission mementos"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: M_______S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MOONROCKS

4 Down: "4. Alternative to a strike [cough cough]"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: S_____T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SICKOUT

5 Down: "5. Variety"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'K'
  • Similar words: like
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a kind of person
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ILK

6 Down: "6. Brooks & ___ (country duo)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: D__N
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DUNN

7 Down: "7. Literary download"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: E___K
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EBOOK

8 Down: "8. Anime style involving giant robots"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: M___A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MECHA

9 Down: "9. Rocksteady precursor"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SKA

10 Down: "10. Soothing home remedy for puffy eyes"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 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 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TEABAGS

11 Down: "11. Spanish rice"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'Z'
  • Word pattern: A___Z
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ARROZ

12 Down: "12. Sorcerous elder of folklore"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: C___E
  • Similar words: witch, hag
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an ugly evil-looking old woman
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CRONE

13 Down: "13. Garden hose problems"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: K___S
  • Similar words: crape, frizzle
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KINKS

14 Down: "16. Go over lightly"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'M'
  • Word pattern: S__M
  • Similar words: glance over, skim over
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a thin layer covering the surface of a liquid
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SKIM

15 Down: "19. Enemy agency in "Get Smart""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: K__S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KAOS

16 Down: "23. ___ Maria (liqueur)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'A'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TIA

17 Down: "26. Beatles sobriquet"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with '4'
  • Word pattern: F__4
  • This answer contains numbers
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer FAB4

18 Down: "28. See 68-Down"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KROC

19 Down: "29. Slightly"

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
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ATAD

20 Down: "30. Go pit-a-pat"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: R__E
  • Similar words: slipstream, speed
  • Opposite of: linger
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: any competition
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RACE

21 Down: "31. Enjoy"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: L__E
  • Similar words: the like, alike
  • Opposite of: unalike
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a similar kind;
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LIKE

22 Down: "35. Texter's [!!!]"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'G'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OMG

23 Down: "36. Make "it," in a kids' game"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'G'
  • Similar words: label, give chase
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a label written or printed on paper
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TAG

24 Down: "37. Ripening agent"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: A__R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AGER

25 Down: "39. Body of policy advisers"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 9 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: T_______K
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer THINKTANK

26 Down: "40. Take home"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'N'
  • Word pattern: E__N
  • Similar words: realise, garner
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EARN

27 Down: "41. Bird named for a Titan"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: R__A
  • Similar words: Rhea americana, nandu
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RHEA

28 Down: "43. Like some short tennis matches"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with '2' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: 2__T
  • This answer contains numbers
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer 2SET

29 Down: "44. Contrite answer to "Who put the empty ice cream carton back in the freezer?""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: I__D
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IDID

30 Down: "47. Legendary sea monsters"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: K_____S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KRAKENS

31 Down: "49. Some bottled waters"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: D_____S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DASANIS

32 Down: "51. String tightener on a guitar"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'G'
  • Similar words: oarlock, leg
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a wooden pin pushed or driven into a surface
  • This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PEG

33 Down: "53. Ear covering"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'H' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: H__K
  • Similar words: chaff, stalk
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer HUSK

34 Down: "54. Screwballs"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: K___S
  • Similar words: queer duck, odd fellow
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KOOKS

35 Down: "55. Director Kurosawa"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 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 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AKIRA

36 Down: "56. Caramel-filled candies"

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
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 36

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ROLOS

37 Down: "57. Actress Palmer of "Nope""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KEKE

38 Down: "58. Outie's counterpart"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: I___E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 38

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer INNIE

39 Down: "59. Hung on the clothesline"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: D___D
  • Similar words: dehydrated, dry
  • Opposite of: wet
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: remove the moisture from and make dry
  • This is Down clue number 39

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DRIED

40 Down: "63. Vape pen, informally"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'G'
  • Word pattern: E__G
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 40

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ECIG

41 Down: "65. When Hamilton arrives in New York City, in "Hamilton""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'I'
  • Word pattern: A__I
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 41

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ACTI

42 Down: "66. Some ring decisions, in brief"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: T__S
  • Similar words: TKO
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 42

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TKOS

43 Down: "68. With 28-Down, longtime McDonald's chief"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'Y'
  • Similar words: radiate, irradiation
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a column of light (as from a beacon)
  • This is Down clue number 43

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RAY

44 Down: "70. Comedian Jo"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'Y'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 44

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KOY

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 44 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: September 17, 2025 at 05:13 AM

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

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