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March 27, 2023 NYT Clues Solutions | XWordHint

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Puzzle Overview & Difficulty Analysis

Date: Monday, March 27, 2023

Difficulty Level: Medium Tuesday Puzzle

Total Clues: 78 (39 Across, 39 Down)

Average Word Length: 4.8 letters

March 27, 2023 NYT Clues Solutions

NYT Monday Crossword Across Clues - March 27, 2023 Solutions

No. Clue Letters
1A 1. Accessory across the front of a Girl Scout uniform 4
2A 5. The "m" in Einstein's E = mc2 4
3A 9. Own (up) 4
4A 13. Excessively promote 4
5A 14. Car 4
6A 15. Airline once said to be "ready when you are" 5
7A 16. 12 months 4
8A 17. Let ___ a secret 4
9A 18. Consumed 5
10A 19. "Does the name contain an animal?" YES. "Is it a band fronted by Adam Duritz?" YES! 13
11A 22. Peaks of waves 6
12A 24. Wrestler/actor John 4
13A 25. U.S. intelligence grp. 3
14A 26. Rower's blade 3
15A 27. Smallish batteries 3
16A 29. Cluster of feathers 4
17A 31. With 45-Across, "Does the name contain a vegetable?" YES. "Is it a band fronted by Billy Corgan?" YES! 8
18A 34. Seaweed-wrapped rolls 5
19A 38. Silicon Valley field, informally 4
20A 39. Alpaca lookalike 5
21A 42. Opening for a coin 4
22A 43. Mean, mocking smile 5
23A 45. See 31-Across 8
24A 47. Moist 4
25A 50. Entrepreneur's deg. 3
26A 51. Rep.'s opponent 3
27A 52. Garment that may have an underwire 3
28A 55. "Adios!" 4
29A 57. Premium cut of steak 6
30A 59. "Does the name contain a mineral?" YES. "Is it a band fronted by Mick Jagger?" YES! 13
31A 62. One might arrive on a saucer 5
32A 63. Soul icon Redding 4
33A 64. [I'm about to speak …] 4
34A 67. Portable preparedness kit 5
35A 68. Sandwich shop 4
36A 69. "Sick!" 4
37A 70. Sarcastic "I bet!" 4
38A 71. Region 4
39A 72. Flatten, as a fly 4

Let's Solve the Across Clues Together!

Here are helpful hints to solve each clue. Remember, crossword puzzles are like word games - have fun with them!

Clue 1 Across: "1. Accessory across the front of a Girl Scout uniform"

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

    The answer is: SASH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Across: "5. The "m" in Einstein's E = mc2"

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 property of a body that causes it to have weight in a gravitational field
  • Words that mean the same thing: quite a little, pot, heap
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MASS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Across: "9. Own (up)"

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 (heraldry) an ordinary consisting of a broad horizontal band across a shield
  • Words that mean the same thing: Fez, Fes, fesse
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FESS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Across: "13. Excessively promote"

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 blatant or sensational promotion
  • Words that mean the same thing: plug, hoopla, ballyhoo
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HYPE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Across: "14. Car"

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 motor vehicle with four wheels; usually propelled by an internal combustion engine
  • Words that mean the same thing: automobile, car, machine
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AUTO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Across: "15. Airline once said to be "ready when you are""

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 low triangular area of alluvial deposits where a river divides before entering a larger body of water
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DELTA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Across: "16. 12 months"

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 period of time containing 365 (or 366) days
  • Words that mean the same thing: class, yr, twelvemonth
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: YEAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Across: "17. Let ___ a secret"

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: INON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Across: "18. Consumed"

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 take in solid food
  • Words that mean the same thing: consume, eat, run through
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: EATEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Across: "19. "Does the name contain an animal?" YES. "Is it a band fronted by Adam Duritz?" YES!"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: COUNTINGCROWS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Across: "22. Peaks of waves"

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 top line of a hill, mountain, or wave
  • Words that mean the same thing: peak, cap, crown
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CRESTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Across: "24. Wrestler/actor John"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: CENA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Across: "25. U.S. intelligence grp."

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the united states cryptologic organization that coordinates and directs highly specialized activities to protect united states information systems and to produce foreign intelligence information
  • Words that mean the same thing: National Security 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: NSA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Across: "26. Rower's blade"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: OAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Across: "27. Smallish batteries"

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 associate degree in applied science
  • Words that mean the same thing: Associate in Arts, Alcoholics Anonymous, aa
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AAS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Across: "29. Cluster of feathers"

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 bunch of hair or feathers or growing grass
  • Words that mean the same thing: tussock
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TUFT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Across: "31. With 45-Across, "Does the name contain a vegetable?" YES. "Is it a band fronted by Billy Corgan?" YES!"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the act of breaking something into small pieces
  • Words that mean the same thing: keen, not bad, 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: SMASHING

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Across: "34. Seaweed-wrapped rolls"

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 rice (with raw fish) wrapped in seaweed
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SUSHI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Across: "38. Silicon Valley field, informally"

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 school teaching mechanical and industrial arts and the applied sciences
  • Words that mean the same thing: technical school
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TECH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Across: "39. Alpaca lookalike"

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 wild or domesticated south american cud-chewing animal related to camels but smaller and lacking a hump
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: LLAMA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Across: "42. Opening for a coin"

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 position in a grammatical linguistic construction in which a variety of alternative units are interchangeable
  • Words that mean the same thing: time slot, one-armed bandit, expansion slot
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SLOT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Across: "43. Mean, mocking smile"

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

    The answer is: SNEER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Across: "45. See 31-Across"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a coarse vine widely cultivated for its large pulpy round orange fruit with firm orange skin and numerous seeds; subspecies of cucurbita pepo include the summer squashes and a few autumn squashes
  • Words that mean the same thing: pumpkin, autumn pumpkin, pumpkin vine
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PUMPKINS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Across: "47. Moist"

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 slight wetness
  • Words that mean the same thing: tone down, deaden, mute
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DAMP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Across: "50. Entrepreneur's deg."

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

    The answer is: MBA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Across: "51. Rep.'s opponent"

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: DEM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Across: "52. Garment that may have an underwire"

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 undergarment worn by women to support their breasts
  • Words that mean the same thing: bandeau, brassiere
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BRA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Across: "55. "Adios!""

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 an acknowledgment that can be used to say hello or goodbye (aloha is hawaiian and ciao is italian)
  • Words that mean the same thing: aloha
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: CIAO

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Across: "57. Premium cut of steak"

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: RIBEYE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Across: "59. "Does the name contain a mineral?" YES. "Is it a band fronted by Mick Jagger?" YES!"

Quick Info: This answer has 13 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: ROLLINGSTONES

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Across: "62. One might arrive on a saucer"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a person who comes from a foreign country; someone who does not owe allegiance to your country
  • Words that mean the same thing: alienate, foreigner, disaffect
  • The opposite would be: acquaintance, citizen
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALIEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Across: "63. Soul icon Redding"

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 united states inventor who manufactured the first elevator with a safety device (1811-1861)
  • Words that mean the same thing: Elisha Graves Otis, genus Otis
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: OTIS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Across: "64. [I'm about to speak …]"

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 utterance of a sound similar to clearing the throat; intended to get attention, express hesitancy, fill a pause, hide embarrassment, warn a friend, etc.
  • Words that mean the same thing: hem
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AHEM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Across: "67. Portable preparedness kit"

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: GOBAG

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Across: "68. Sandwich shop"

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 shop selling ready-to-eat food products
  • Words that mean the same thing: food shop, delicatessen
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DELI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Across: "69. "Sick!""

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 street names for marijuana
  • Words that mean the same thing: pot, poop, dope up
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DOPE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Across: "70. Sarcastic "I bet!""

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: ASIF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Across: "71. Region"

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 particular geographical region of indefinite boundary (usually serving some special purpose or distinguished by its people or culture or geography)
  • Words that mean the same thing: expanse, country, domain
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AREA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 39 Across: "72. Flatten, as a fly"

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

    The answer is: SWAT

    Great job if you got it right!

NYT Monday Crossword Down Clues - March 27, 2023 Answers

No. Clue Letters
1D 1. Like toddlers when meeting strangers, often 3
2D 2. Sailor's "yes" 3
3D 3. Cold War contest featuring Sputnik and Apollo 9
4D 4. Sandwiches that may save the day? 5
5D 5. Ship's primary canvas 8
6D 6. Mother's sister, e.g. 4
7D 7. Uncomplaining, say 5
8D 8. One of Shakespeare's begins "My mistress' eyes are nothing like the sun" 6
9D 9. Dread 4
10D 10. John who sang "Rocket Man" 5
11D 11. This-and-that dishes 5
12D 12. Stark daughter on "Game of Thrones" 5
13D 15. Joltless javas 6
14D 20. Jazz player's state 4
15D 21. Bearded grazer 3
16D 22. Prices 5
17D 23. Japanese noodle dish 5
18D 28. Long-running Lorne Michaels production, for short 3
19D 30. Boar's gorer 4
20D 32. Crude outbuilding 4
21D 33. Opening, as between teeth 3
22D 35. TED talk accompaniment, often 9
23D 36. Winnie-the-Pooh's craving 5
24D 37. Possible response to "Who's there?" 5
25D 40. Closemouthed 3
26D 41. Food of the gods 8
27D 44. Speedway sport 6
28D 46. Big nuisance 4
29D 48. Max's opposite 3
30D 49. Buddhist temple 6
31D 52. Brazilian actress Sonia 5
32D 53. Fez-shaped chocolates 5
33D 54. Suspect's "out" 5
34D 56. Kitchen appliance brand 5
35D 58. Necklace decorations 5
36D 60. Part of the Apple logo 4
37D 61. Mahjong piece 4
38D 65. Org. with pollution solutions 3
39D 66. Rendezvoused 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. Like toddlers when meeting strangers, often"

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 quick throw
  • Words that mean the same thing: diffident, timid, unsure
  • The opposite would be: confident
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SHY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 2 Down: "2. Sailor's "yes""

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: AYE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 3 Down: "3. Cold War contest featuring Sputnik and Apollo"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SPACERACE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 4 Down: "4. Sandwiches that may save the day?"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a man distinguished by exceptional courage and nobility and strength
  • Words that mean the same thing: hoagy, bomber, zep
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HEROS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 5 Down: "5. Ship's primary canvas"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the lowermost sail on the mainmast
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MAINSAIL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 6 Down: "6. Mother's sister, e.g."

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the sister of your father or mother; the wife of your uncle
  • Words that mean the same thing: aunty, auntie
  • The opposite would be: uncle
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AUNT

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 7 Down: "7. Uncomplaining, say"

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 member of the ancient greek school of philosophy founded by zeno
  • Words that mean the same thing: unemotional person, stoical
  • The opposite would be: emotional person
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STOIC

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 8 Down: "8. One of Shakespeare's begins "My mistress' eyes are nothing like the sun""

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a verse form consisting of 14 lines with a fixed rhyme scheme
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SONNET

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 9 Down: "9. Dread"

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 an emotion experienced in anticipation of some specific pain or danger (usually accompanied by a desire to flee or fight)
  • Words that mean the same thing: fright, dread, revere
  • The opposite would be: fearlessness
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: FEAR

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 10 Down: "10. John who sang "Rocket Man""

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: ELTON

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 11 Down: "11. This-and-that dishes"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that agitation resulting from active worry
  • Words that mean the same thing: stew, grudge, brood
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: STEWS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 12 Down: "12. Stark daughter on "Game of Thrones""

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SANSA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 13 Down: "15. Joltless javas"

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 coffee with the caffeine removed
  • Words that mean the same thing: decaf, decaffeinated coffee
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: DECAFS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 14 Down: "20. Jazz player's state"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: UTAH

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 15 Down: "21. Bearded grazer"

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 large african antelope having a head with horns like an ox and a long tufted tail
  • Words that mean the same thing: wildebeest
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GNU

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 16 Down: "22. Prices"

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 pecuniary reimbursement to the winning party for the expenses of litigation
  • Words that mean the same thing: toll, cost, price
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: COSTS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 17 Down: "23. Japanese noodle dish"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: RAMEN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 18 Down: "28. Long-running Lorne Michaels production, for short"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: SNL

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 19 Down: "30. Boar's gorer"

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 hard smooth ivory colored dentine that makes up most of the tusks of elephants and walruses
  • Words that mean the same thing: ivory, detusk, horn
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TUSK

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 20 Down: "32. Crude outbuilding"

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 outbuilding with a single story; used for shelter or storage
  • Words that mean the same thing: slough, throw, shake off
  • The opposite would be: persistent
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: SHED

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 21 Down: "33. Opening, as between teeth"

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 conspicuous disparity or difference as between two figures
  • Words that mean the same thing: crack, disruption, breach
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: GAP

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 22 Down: "35. TED talk accompaniment, often"

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: SLIDESHOW

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 23 Down: "36. Winnie-the-Pooh's craving"

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 sweet yellow liquid produced by bees
  • Words that mean the same thing: dearest, beloved, dear
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: HONEY

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 24 Down: "37. Possible response to "Who's there?""

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: ITSME

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 25 Down: "40. Closemouthed"

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 informal terms for a mother
  • Words that mean the same thing: ma, mummy, mommy
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MUM

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 26 Down: "41. Food of the gods"

Quick Info: This answer has 8 letters. It's a hard clue about food & drink.

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that a mixture of nectar and pollen prepared by worker bees and fed to larvae
  • Words that mean the same thing: beebread, nectar, bitterweed
  • The word looks like this: ________
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: AMBROSIA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 27 Down: "44. Speedway sport"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that the sport of engaging in contests of speed
  • Words that mean the same thing: hotfoot, step on it, hie
  • The opposite would be: linger
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: RACING

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 28 Down: "46. Big nuisance"

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 symptom of some physical hurt or disorder
  • Words that mean the same thing: nuisance, pain in the neck, trouble
  • The opposite would be: pleasure
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PAIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 29 Down: "48. Max's opposite"

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 time equal to 60 seconds or 1/60th of an hour
  • Words that mean the same thing: Min dialect, Fukien, Taiwanese
  • The word looks like this: ___
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MIN

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 30 Down: "49. Buddhist temple"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an asian temple; usually a pyramidal tower with an upward curving roof
  • The word looks like this: ______
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: PAGODA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 31 Down: "52. Brazilian actress Sonia"

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

Here's how to solve it:

  • This could be something that an ancient city in northern portugal
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BRAGA

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 32 Down: "53. Fez-shaped chocolates"

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: ROLOS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 33 Down: "54. Suspect's "out""

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 (law) a defense by an accused person purporting to show that he or she could not have committed the crime in question
  • Words that mean the same thing: exculpation, excuse, self-justification
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: ALIBI

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 34 Down: "56. Kitchen appliance brand"

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: OSTER

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 35 Down: "58. Necklace decorations"

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 several beads threaded together on a string
  • Words that mean the same thing: astragal, beading, pearl
  • The word looks like this: _____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: BEADS

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 36 Down: "60. Part of the Apple logo"

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

Here's how to solve it:

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

    The answer is: LEAF

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 37 Down: "61. Mahjong piece"

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 thin rectangular slab (as of fired clay or rubber or linoleum) used to cover surfaces
  • Words that mean the same thing: roofing tile
  • The word looks like this: ____
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: TILE

    Great job if you got it right!

Clue 38 Down: "65. Org. with pollution solutions"

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 39 Down: "66. Rendezvoused"

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 come together
  • Words that mean the same thing: suffer, see, fit
  • The opposite would be: diverge
  • Still stuck? Remember to use the crossing words to help you!
  • Ready for the answer? Click here!

    The answer is: MET

    Great job if you got it right!

Category Breakdown

Category Number of Clues Percentage
General Knowledge 53 67.9%
Short Answer 14 17.9%
Celebrity/Entertainment 3 3.8%
Food & Drink 3 3.8%
History 2 2.6%
Geography 1 1.3%
Abbreviation 1 1.3%
Sports 1 1.3%

Complete Puzzle Statistics

Metric Value
Across Clues 39
Down Clues 39
Total Clues 78
Average Answer Length 4.8 letters
Shortest Answer 3 letters
Longest Answer 13 letters

Fun Tips to Solve Crossword Puzzles!

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

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

Last Updated: September 03, 2025 at 11:17 AM

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Tuesday, December 16, 2025

NYT Down Crossword December 16, 2025 - Master All 39 Top-to-Bottom Clues

Tuesday's NYT Down Dec 16 - Full Vertical Grid Solutions

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 39 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: March 20 2023 NYT Clues Solutions | June 17 2022 NYT Clues Solutions | June 22 2020 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for December 16, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Tuesday, December 16, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date December 16, 2025
Day of Week Tuesday
Total Down Clues 39 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Medium

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 39 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. Genesis or Yes
2 Down 2. Many a character in "The Grapes of Wrath"
3 Down 3. Barnyard sound
4 Down 4. Prepare to be knighted
5 Down 5. Epitome of simplicity
6 Down 6. Genre for Genesis or Yes, informally
7 Down 7. Lead (the way)
8 Down 8. Glossy finishes
9 Down 9. Active and enthusiastic sort
10 Down 10. Approx.
11 Down 11. Easily found on the internet, say
12 Down 12. Memo heading
13 Down 13. Grammy-winning R&B artist whose stage name is said to have been inspired by "The Matrix"
14 Down 19. Golden Age studio known for many Astaire/Rogers films
15 Down 21. You might heave a big one
16 Down 25. Places
17 Down 27. Mike in "Breaking Bad," for example
18 Down 28. Cancel, as a space launch
19 Down 29. Procrastinator's mantra
20 Down 30. What someone seeking validation might need
21 Down 32. Shallow boat with a square stern
22 Down 34. Neighbor of a Slovene
23 Down 35. "Take it easy!"
24 Down 37. Brother to Groucho
25 Down 38. Mournful cries
26 Down 41. One in a box at the theater?
27 Down 44. Tranquilizes
28 Down 46. Penalty in Monopoly
29 Down 48. Artist known for his "impossible staircases"
30 Down 51. Symbol of divine authority in hieroglyphics
31 Down 53. Grab control of
32 Down 54. Words before a date
33 Down 55. Tentative greeting
34 Down 57. The Hawkeye State
35 Down 59. Show extreme fandom for, in slang
36 Down 60. Give temporarily
37 Down 61. Ryan and Adams of Hollywood
38 Down 63. Whistle blower or flag thrower
39 Down 64. Hosp. hot spots

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. Genesis or Yes"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: B__D
  • Similar words: dance orchestra, striation
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an unofficial association of people or groups
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BAND

2 Down: "2. Many a character in "The Grapes of Wrath""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: O__E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OKIE

3 Down: "3. Barnyard sound"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: O__K
  • Similar words: squeal, grunt
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the short low gruff noise of the kind made by hogs
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OINK

4 Down: "4. Prepare to be knighted"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: K___L
  • Similar words: kneeling
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: supporting yourself on your knees
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KNEEL

5 Down: "5. Epitome of simplicity"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'C'
  • Similar words: ABC's, first principle
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the elementary stages of any subject (usually plural)
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ABC

6 Down: "6. Genre for Genesis or Yes, informally"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: P______K
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PROGROCK

7 Down: "7. Lead (the way)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PAVE

8 Down: "8. Glossy finishes"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S____S
  • Similar words: luster, sheen
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SHEENS

9 Down: "9. Active and enthusiastic sort"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: B_____E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BUSYBEE

10 Down: "10. Approx."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'T'
  • Similar words: Eastern Time
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: standard time in the 5th time zone west of Greenwich
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EST

11 Down: "11. Easily found on the internet, say"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GOOGLEABLE

12 Down: "12. Memo heading"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 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 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer INRE

13 Down: "13. Grammy-winning R&B artist whose stage name is said to have been inspired by "The Matrix""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: N__O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NEYO

14 Down: "19. Golden Age studio known for many Astaire/Rogers films"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'O'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RKO

15 Down: "21. You might heave a big one"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'H'
  • Word pattern: S__H
  • Similar words: suspire, suspiration
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: an utterance made by exhaling audibly
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SIGH

16 Down: "25. Places"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A___S
  • Similar words: arena, area
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AREAS

17 Down: "27. Mike in "Breaking Bad," for example"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: E___P
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EXCOP

18 Down: "28. Cancel, as a space launch"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: A___T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ABORT

19 Down: "29. Procrastinator's mantra"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: L___R
  • Similar words: subsequently, ulterior
  • Opposite of: early
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: coming at a subsequent time or stage
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LATER

20 Down: "30. What someone seeking validation might need"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 10 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 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EGOMASSAGE

21 Down: "32. Shallow boat with a square stern"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'F'
  • Word pattern: S___F
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SKIFF

22 Down: "34. Neighbor of a Slovene"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: C___T
  • Similar words: Croatian
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a member of the Slavic people living in Croatia
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CROAT

23 Down: "35. "Take it easy!""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: S___A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SEEYA

24 Down: "37. Brother to Groucho"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: C___O
  • Similar words: Marx, Leonard Marx
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CHICO

25 Down: "38. Mournful cries"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'W' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: W___S
  • Similar words: mewl, roar
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a cry of sorrow and grief
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer WAILS

26 Down: "41. One in a box at the theater?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: R______T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RAISINET

27 Down: "44. Tranquilizes"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 7 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S_____S
  • Similar words: tranquilize, calm
  • Opposite of: stimulate
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: cause to be calm or quiet as by administering a sedative to
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SEDATES

28 Down: "46. Penalty in Monopoly"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: R__T
  • Similar words: take, pull
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RENT

29 Down: "48. Artist known for his "impossible staircases""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: E____R
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ESCHER

30 Down: "51. Symbol of divine authority in hieroglyphics"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'P'
  • Similar words: asp viper, Naja haje
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: of southern Europe; similar to but smaller than the adder
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ASP

31 Down: "53. Grab control of"

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
  • Similar words: sequester, capture
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: take hold of; grab
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SEIZE

32 Down: "54. Words before a date"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ASOF

33 Down: "55. Tentative greeting"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'U' and ends with 'I'
  • Word pattern: U__I
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer UMHI

34 Down: "57. The Hawkeye State"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: I__A
  • Similar words: Ioway, Hawkeye State
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IOWA

35 Down: "59. Show extreme fandom for, in slang"

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
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STAN

36 Down: "60. Give temporarily"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: L__D
  • Similar words: add, impart
  • Opposite of: borrow
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: bestow a quality on
  • This is Down clue number 36

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LEND

37 Down: "61. Ryan and Adams of Hollywood"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer AMYS

38 Down: "63. Whistle blower or flag thrower"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'F'
  • Similar words: referee
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 38

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer REF

39 Down: "64. Hosp. hot spots"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Similar words: erbium, emergency room
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 39

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ERS

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 39 Down clues.

Are Down clues easier than Across clues?

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

How do Down clues interact with Across clues?

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

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

Last Updated: December 16, 2025 at 05:17 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, December 16 2025 down clues

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