Crack the NYT Crossword Clue and Answer for April 2, 2024
by Dheshni | Updated Apr 02, 2024
NYT Crossword
The New York Times Crossword is a well-known puzzle with small clues that must be answered; the right answers are written on the grid. Use your knowledge and a dictionary to find synonyms and definitions to help you solve the challenge. If you think it's difficult, don't give up too easily. Take your time solving the crosswords. Now grab your pencils. Sit down and make a list of every answer you know, starting with the easiest. If you need help solving them, go to our page to get the answers.
Vessel for whitewater rapids
Answer: RAFT
In whitewater rafting, participants navigate rough waters using inflatable rafts. Rafts are sturdy and designed to withstand the turbulence of rapids, making them the preferred vessel for this adventurous activity.
Let the cat out of the bag
Answer: BLAB
This phrase means to reveal a secret or disclose information that was meant to be kept confidential. "Blab" is a fitting answer as it means to reveal secrets or talk indiscreetly, similar to what one might do when they inadvertently let a secret slip out.
Melting Face or Heart Hands
Answer: EMOJI
In the context of digital communication, "Melting Face" and "Heart Hands" refer to specific emojis commonly used in messaging and social media platforms. Emojis are pictorial symbols used to convey emotions, expressions, or ideas in text messages or online communication.
“___ Enchanted” (2004 comedy)
Answer: ELLA
"Ella Enchanted" is a 2004 comedy film based on the novel of the same name by Gail Carson Levine. The movie follows the story of a young woman named Ella who is cursed with obedience. The blank in the question indicates that "Ella" is the missing word, completing the title of the film.
Headwear for 14-Across
Answer: TIARA
The clue "Headwear for 14-Across" suggests that the answer relates to another clue, which is "Shirley Temple, for one." Shirley Temple, a famous child actress, was often depicted wearing a tiara in her roles, making "tiara" the appropriate headwear associated with her.
Debriefed?
Answer: NAKED
The word "debriefed" typically refers to a meeting where information is shared or discussed after a particular event or activity. In this context, the question mark suggests a playful or alternative interpretation. "Naked" fits the clue because being "debriefed" in a humorous sense could imply being stripped of clothing, hence the association with being naked
Black Friday offer, e.g.
Answer: DOORBUSTER
On Black Friday, retailers often offer special deals and discounts to attract shoppers. A "doorbuster" is a type of promotion where stores offer extremely discounted prices on select items to encourage customers to come to their physical locations and enter the store ("bust through the door"). Therefore, "doorbuster" is a suitable term for a Black Friday offer.
Shirley Temple, for one
Answer: DRINK
Shirley Temple, the famous child actress, is associated with a non-alcoholic drink named after her. A Shirley Temple drink typically consists of ginger ale, a splash of grenadine syrup, and a maraschino cherry. So, "drink" is the appropriate answer for what Shirley Temple represents.
“That would stink!”
Answer: IHOPENOT
The phrase "That would stink!" implies a negative outcome or undesirable situation. "I hope not" is a response that suggests the speaker wishes for the opposite to happen, indicating optimism or a desire for a favorable outcome, which aligns with the sentiment expressed in the clue. Therefore, "IHOPENOT" serves as a fitting response to the statement
United
Answer: ONE
The word "United" suggests coming together or being joined as one. "One" is a simple and direct interpretation of this idea, representing unity or togetherness. Therefore, "ONE" is a suitable answer that aligns with the clue.
Stay-at-home ___
Answer: DAD
The clue "Stay-at-home" suggests someone who remains at home, often to take care of household duties or family members. "Dad" fits this description as it refers to a father who may stay at home to care for children or manage domestic responsibilities while other family members are away
Something extended to a borrower
Answer: LINEOFCREDIT
A "line of credit" is a type of loan agreement between a financial institution and a borrower, allowing the borrower to access funds up to a predetermined credit limit. The term "extended to a borrower" implies a financial arrangement where funds are made available for borrowing, which aligns with the concept of a line of credit.
“Jesus, ___” (Wilco song)
Answer: ETC
In the Wilco song "Jesus, Etc.", the word "etc." is part of the song's title. In this context, "etc." is short for "et cetera," a Latin phrase meaning "and other similar things" or "and so forth." The title suggests that the song might explore various topics or aspects related to the subject of Jesus or spirituality
Highway no-nos, for short
Answer: UIES
Highway no-nos" refers to actions that are prohibited or discouraged while driving on highways. "U-turns" (often abbreviated as "UIES" for short) are typically restricted or prohibited in certain areas of highways due to safety concerns and traffic regulations. Therefore, "UIES" fits the clue as it represents a common highway maneuver that is generally not allowed.
One might be Horatian
Answer: ODE
An "ode" is a type of poem characterized by its formal structure and elevated style. The term "Horatian" refers to the Roman poet Horace, who wrote odes in a particular style known for its moderation, wit, and lyricism. Therefore, "ode" is a suitable answer as it aligns with the reference to a poetic form associated with Horace.
Choices in a sleepover game
Answer: DARES
During sleepovers, it's common for participants to play games like Truth or Dare. In this game, players are given the choice between answering a truth question honestly or completing a dare, which is a challenge or task. Therefore, "dares" are options in this sleepover game.
Grit
Answer: METTLE
"Grit" refers to courage, strength of character, or resilience in the face of adversity. "Mettle" is a synonym for grit, representing one's ability to persevere and endure challenging situations with determination and resolve
Fam, formally
Answer: KIN
"Fam" is a colloquial term often used to refer to close friends or family members. "Kin" is a more formal term for family, encompassing relatives and those connected by blood or marriage. Therefore, "kin" is the formal equivalent of "fam."
Plus these other authors: Abbr.
Answer: ETAL
In bibliographic citations, "et al." is an abbreviation of the Latin phrase "et alia," meaning "and others." It is used to indicate additional authors beyond those specifically mentioned. Therefore, "et al." represents other authors not explicitly named in a list.
“Stop right there!” … or a hint to the first words of 17-, 23-, 47- and 59-Across
Answer: HOLDIT
The phrase "Stop right there!" is an expression used to halt someone's action or speech. In this context, it serves as a hint to the theme of the crossword puzzle, indicating that the first words of certain across clues should be "held" or stopped. These first words are likely to complete the phrase "Hold it," forming part of the puzzle's theme or solution.
Profile features on dating apps
Answer: BIOS
On dating apps, users typically create profiles containing information about themselves. These profiles often include short written descriptions, known as "bios," which provide an overview of the user's interests, personality, and preferences. Therefore, "bios" are profile features commonly found on dating apps.
“Atlantic” or “Pacific” fish
Answer: COD
Both the Atlantic cod and Pacific cod are species of fish commonly found in their respective oceanic regions. The clue suggests a fish that is associated with either the Atlantic or Pacific Ocean. "Cod" fits this description as it is a type of fish found in both oceans, making it the appropriate answer.
Legislative proposal
Answer: MOTION
In a legislative context, a "motion" refers to a formal proposal made by a member of a deliberative assembly, such as a parliament or congress, to take a specific action or address a particular issue. Members may "move" or "make a motion" during a meeting to introduce a proposal for consideration and debate.
Ominous words on a flunked test
Answer: SEEME
When a student performs poorly on a test or exam, they might receive the instruction "See me" from their teacher, which can be interpreted as ominous or foreboding, suggesting the need for a discussion about their performance or academic standing
Boxer who defeated Superman in a 1978 DC Comics issue
Answer: ALI
In a 1978 DC Comics issue titled "Superman vs. Muhammad Ali," the boxer Muhammad Ali engages in a fictional boxing match against Superman. In this storyline, Ali defeats Superman, showcasing his boxing prowess even against a superhero.
Baby ___ (candy bar)
Answer: RUTH
"Baby Ruth" is a popular candy bar made of peanuts, caramel, and nougat, coated in chocolate. The clue suggests the name of the candy bar, which is "Ruth." Despite the common misconception that the candy bar is named after baseball player Babe Ruth, it was actually named after President Grover Cleveland's daughter, Ruth Cleveland.
Woolly mammal
Answer: EWE
A "woolly mammal" refers to an animal covered in wool, which commonly describes sheep. "Ewe" is a term specifically used to refer to a female sheep, making it the appropriate answer.
Gymnastics sequence involving tumbling
Answer: FLOORROUTINE
A "floor routine" in gymnastics is a performance involving a series of choreographed movements, including tumbling, dance, and acrobatics, performed on the floor exercise mat. This sequence showcases the gymnast's skills and agility as they maneuver through various elements on the floor.
Beyond chill
Answer: ICY
"Beyond chill" suggests an extreme level of coldness or aloofness. "Icy" is an adjective used to describe something extremely cold or lacking warmth, both in temperature and in demeanor, making it the fitting answer.
Offshoot of punk
Answer: EMO
"Emo" is a subculture and music genre that originated as an offshoot of punk in the 1980s and gained popularity in the 2000s. Emo music is characterized by its emotional lyrics, introspective themes, and melodic sound, distinguishing it from traditional punk rock
In which you might talk through your problems?
Answer: ORALEXAM
An "oral exam" is a test or assessment in which a person verbally answers questions posed by an examiner, often to demonstrate knowledge or proficiency in a particular subject. The clue suggests that during an oral exam, one might verbally express and discuss their problems or answers with the examiner, making it a suitable answer.
“God Only Knows,” vis-à-vis “Wouldn’t It Be Nice”
Answer: SIDEB
Expansive medical center headquartered in Rochester, Minn.
Answer: MAYOCLINIC
The "Mayo Clinic" is a renowned medical center headquartered in Rochester, Minnesota. It is known for its comprehensive healthcare services, medical research, and innovative approach to patient care. The Mayo Clinic has a global reputation for excellence in healthcare and is often regarded as one of the top medical institutions in the world.
Pal, in Peru
Answer: AMIGO
"Amigo" is a Spanish word that translates to "friend" in English. Peru is a Spanish-speaking country, so "amigo" is the term used to refer to a friend in Peru. Therefore, "AMIGO" is the appropriate answer for the clue.
___ horizon (black hole boundary)
Answer: EVENT
In physics, particularly in the study of black holes, the "event horizon" refers to the boundary surrounding a black hole beyond which nothing, not even light, can escape its gravitational pull. It is a critical concept in understanding the behavior and properties of black holes. Therefore, "EVENT" is the term associated with the boundary of a black hole.
“Peter Pan” dog
Answer: NANA
In the story of "Peter Pan" by J.M. Barrie, Nana is the name of the dog that serves as a nursemaid to the Darling children. Nana is a lovable and maternal figure in the story, responsible for taking care of Wendy, John, and Michael Darling. Therefore, "NANA" is the appropriate answer for the clue.
Alluded to
Answer: GOTAT
"Got at" is a phrasal verb that means to suggest or hint at something indirectly. When someone alludes to something, they are hinting at or referencing it indirectly. Therefore, "GOTAT" fits the clue as it signifies the action of alluding to something.
Noblewoman’s title
Answer: LADY
In traditional European aristocracy, the title "Lady" is often used to address or refer to a noblewoman, particularly one who holds a title of her own or is the wife or daughter of a titled nobleman. "Lady" is a term of respect and denotes a woman of high social standing
Checks out
Answer: EYES
"Eyes" can be interpreted as a verb meaning to visually inspect or examine something closely. When someone "checks out" something, they are typically looking at it or examining it carefully to verify its accuracy, authenticity, or condition. Therefore, "EYES" serves as a fitting answer indicating the action of visually inspecting or examining something.
Made over
Answer: REDID
When something is "made over," it means it has been renovated, refurbished, or altered in some way. "Redid" is the past tense of the verb "redo," which means to do something again or differently, especially to improve it. Therefore, "REDID" is the appropriate answer indicating the action of making something over.
Hawaii “bye”
Answer: ALOHA
In Hawaii, "aloha" is a common greeting used to say hello or goodbye. While "aloha" is often associated with welcoming someone, it can also be used as a farewell, serving as a versatile term for both greetings and goodbyes in Hawaiian culture.
Barrage
Answer: FLOOD
A "barrage" refers to a sudden and overwhelming outpouring or deluge of something. "Flood" is a fitting answer as it describes a large and rapid flow of water that inundates an area, causing widespread coverage and inundation. Therefore, "FLOOD" represents the idea of a barrage or inundation.
Field protector
Answer: TARP
A "tarp" is a protective covering, often made of waterproof material like canvas or plastic, used to shield objects or surfaces from the elements. In the context of fields, such as agricultural fields or sports fields, a tarp can be laid out to protect the soil or playing surface from rain, sun, or other environmental factors, serving as a field protector. Therefore, "TARP" is the appropriate answer indicating a protective covering for fields
Mammal whose scientific name is just its name repeated
Answer: BISON
The scientific name for the bison is "Bison bison." In taxonomy, the genus and species names are often repeated to form the scientific name of an organism. Therefore, "BISON" is the appropriate answer, as the scientific name for this mammal is simply its common name repeated twice.
Beverage with a seasonal pumpkin spice variety
Answer: LATTE
A "latte" is a type of coffee beverage made with espresso and steamed milk. During the fall season, many coffee shops offer a seasonal variety of latte flavored with pumpkin spice, which typically includes spices like cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove. Therefore, "LATTE" is the answer representing a coffee beverage that has a seasonal pumpkin spice variety.
“___ you for real?”
Answer: ARE
The phrase "___ you for real?" suggests a question about someone's authenticity or sincerity. In this context, "ARE" fills in the blank to form the question "Are you for real?" The word "are" is a form of the verb "to be" used for the second person singular and plural subjects.
Unit of phone service
Answer: BAR
In telecommunications, a "bar" typically refers to the signal strength indicator on a mobile phone. It represents a unit of measurement indicating the strength of the cellular signal received by the device. More bars generally indicate a stronger signal, resulting in better call quality and data reception
Throw one’s support behind, as a candidate
Answer: ENDORSE
To "endorse" a candidate means to publicly express support or approval for them, especially in the context of elections or political campaigns. When someone endorses a candidate, they are essentially giving their official backing or recommendation for that individual. Therefore, "ENDORSE" is the appropriate answer indicating the action of supporting a candidate.
French river where two W.W. I battles took place
Answer: MARNE
The Marne River is a river in France that was the site of two significant battles during World War I: the First Battle of the Marne (1914) and the Second Battle of the Marne (1918). These battles were crucial in shaping the outcomes of the war and are significant events in military history. Therefore, "MARNE" is the appropriate answer indicating the French river associated with these World War I battles.
Goofy assent that precedes “artichokie”
Answer: OKIEDOKIE
"Okie dokie" is a colloquial expression used to convey agreement, affirmation, or acceptance, often in a playful or lighthearted manner. In this context, "Okie dokie" is the goofy assent that precedes "artichokie," a playful variation of the word "artichoke." The phrase "Okie dokie" is used humorously to precede the whimsical term "artichokie," creating a playful and light-hearted expression.
Former White House press secretary Psaki
Answer: JEN
Jen Psaki is a political commentator and former White House press secretary who served during the administration of President Joe Biden. In this context, "JEN" is the appropriate answer representing the first name of Jen Psaki, the former White House press secretary.
“Beats me,” in brief
Answer: IDK
"IDK" is an abbreviation commonly used in informal communication to represent the phrase "I don't know." It is used to express uncertainty or lack of knowledge about a particular topic or question. Therefore, "IDK" serves as the brief expression for "Beats me," indicating a lack of knowledge or understanding.
Old habit?
Answer: TUNIC
In this context, "Old habit" refers to a traditional or customary garment worn in the past. A "tunic" is a loose-fitting garment, typically sleeveless or with short sleeves, that was commonly worn in ancient times and throughout history as a basic item of clothing. Therefore, "TUNIC" is the appropriate answer representing an old habit or traditional attire.
Passionately sings (out)
Answer: BELTS
When someone "belts" a song, they sing it loudly and passionately, often projecting their voice with enthusiasm. "Belting" is a term used to describe singing in a powerful and robust manner, often associated with musical performances or karaoke sessions where the singer puts their whole heart into the song.
One-up
Answer: OUTDO
To "one-up" someone means to surpass or exceed them in some way, typically in achievement, performance, or accomplishment. When someone "outdoes" another person, they demonstrate superiority or dominance in a particular aspect or activity, thereby "one-upping" them.
Mesh with one’s peers
Answer: FITIN
To "fit in" means to be accepted or integrated into a group or community, especially when one's characteristics or behavior align well with those of their peers. "FITIN" is the appropriate answer, representing the action of blending in or harmonizing with one's peers.
British Isles inhabitant during the Iron Age
Answer: CELT
During the Iron Age, inhabitants of the British Isles were known as "Celts." The Celts were a group of Indo-European peoples who lived in various parts of Europe during ancient times. In the context of the British Isles, the term "Celt" refers to the people who inhabited the region during the Iron Age.
Expression
Answer: IDIOM
An "idiom" is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning different from the literal interpretation of its individual words. Idioms are commonly used in everyday language to convey ideas, emotions, or concepts in a succinct and culturally specific manner. Therefore, "IDIOM" is the appropriate answer representing a type of expression characterized by its figurative language
Like stiff muscles
Answer: TENSE
"Tense" describes muscles that are tight, stiff, or contracted, often due to stress, physical exertion, or anxiety. When muscles are tense, they may feel rigid or inflexible, causing discomfort or limited mobility. Therefore, "TENSE" is the appropriate answer indicating the condition of stiff muscles.
Fish that can give a shock
Answer: EEL
Electric eels are a type of fish known for their ability to generate electric shocks. These shocks are used both for self-defense and to immobilize prey. Therefore, "EEL" is the appropriate answer representing a fish that can give a shock.
Like tea that’s OK to have before bed
Answer: DECAF
"Decaf" is short for "decaffeinated," referring to beverages like tea or coffee from which most of the caffeine has been removed. Decaf tea is suitable to drink before bed because it contains little to no caffeine, allowing individuals to avoid the stimulant effects that can interfere with sleep.
Lagoon-forming landform
Answer: ATOLL
An atoll is a ring-shaped coral reef, island, or series of islets that encircles a lagoon partially or completely. Atolls form from the gradual subsidence of volcanic islands, leaving behind a submerged volcanic crater or caldera that becomes a lagoon. Therefore, "ATOLL" is the appropriate answer representing a lagoon-forming landform.
CeeLo Green’s “Forget You,” notably
Answer: RADIOEDIT
"Forget You" is a song by CeeLo Green, known for its upbeat and catchy tune. The term "RADIO EDIT" refers to a version of a song that has been modified for radio airplay, typically to remove explicit language or content that may not be suitable for broadcast on public airwaves. Therefore, "RADIO EDIT" is the appropriate answer indicating a modified version of CeeLo Green's song suitable for radio play
Words to live by
Answer: MOTTO
A "motto" is a short phrase or slogan that expresses a guiding principle or belief. It is often used as a rallying cry or reminder of values to live by. Therefore, "MOTTO" fits the clue as it represents words to live by.
Yale for whom Yale University is named
Answer: ELIHU
Elihu Yale was an English merchant and philanthropist who contributed significantly to the founding of Yale University in the American colonies. The university was later named in his honor. Therefore, "ELIHU" is the appropriate answer representing the individual for whom Yale University is named.
The “12” of 12:34
Answer: HOUR
In the time format 12:34, the "12" refers to the hour, indicating that it is 12 o'clock. The hour is the first part of the time notation, specifying the particular hour of the day. Therefore, "HOUR" is the appropriate answer indicating the hour represented in the given time.
Drone, e.g.
Answer: BEE
A "bee" is an example of a drone, which is a male honeybee characterized by its inability to sting and its primary role in mating with the queen bee. Drones are responsible for fertilizing the queen bee and do not engage in tasks like foraging for nectar or pollen. Therefore, "BEE" fits the clue as an example of a drone
TV drama about anarchist hackers
Answer: MRROBOT
Mr. Robot" is a television drama series that revolves around a group of anarchist hackers led by a character known as Mr. Robot. The show explores themes of cybersecurity, social activism, and the impact of technology on society. Therefore, "MRROBOT" is the appropriate answer representing the TV drama about anarchist hackers.
Peachy keen
Answer: SWELL
"Swell" is a colloquial term meaning excellent, wonderful, or satisfactory. It is often used informally to express approval or contentment with a situation or outcome. Therefore, "SWELL" fits the clue as a synonym for "peachy keen," indicating a positive or favorable state of affairs.
Pass into law
Answer: ENACT
To "enact" something means to make it into law through a formal legislative process. When a bill or proposal is enacted, it becomes an official law that governs a particular jurisdiction. Therefore, "ENACT" is the appropriate answer indicating the process of passing a law.
End of the Greek alphabet
Answer: OMEGA
Omega is the last letter of the Greek alphabet, often symbolizing the end or conclusion of something. In various contexts, "omega" represents finality, completion, or the ultimate stage of a process or sequence. Therefore, "OMEGA" is the appropriate answer representing the end of the Greek alphabet.
Messed (with)
Answer: TOYED
To "toy with" something means to handle it casually or playfully, often without serious intent or commitment. When someone "toys" with a situation or person, they may experiment with it or manipulate it in a playful or teasing manner. Therefore, "TOYED" is the appropriate answer indicating the action of messing with something.
“Dramatic” literary device
Answer: IRONY
Irony is a literary device characterized by a discrepancy between what is expected and what actually occurs. It often involves situations where there is a contrast between appearance and reality, leading to unexpected or contradictory outcomes. Therefore, "IRONY" is the appropriate answer representing the dramatic literary device of irony.
Pig Latin turndown
Answer: IXNAY
"Ixnay" is a term from Pig Latin, a playful language game used for amusement or secrecy. In Pig Latin, words are altered by moving the initial consonant or consonant cluster to the end of the word and adding "-ay." "Ixnay" is the Pig Latin version of "nix," meaning to reject or deny something. Therefore, "IXNAY" is the appropriate answer indicating a turndown in Pig Latin.
Oscar-winning actor Michael
Answer: CAINE
Sir Michael Caine is a renowned British actor who has won two Academy Awards for Best Supporting Actor for his performances in the films "Hannah and Her Sisters" (1986) and "The Cider House Rules" (1999). Therefore, "CAINE" is the appropriate answer representing the Oscar-winning actor Michael Caine
Facilities where racquetball and basketball were first played, for short
Answer: YMCAS
YMCA stands for Young Men's Christian Association, an organization that operates facilities providing various recreational, social, and athletic activities. Many YMCA facilities have courts for racquetball and basketball, making them popular venues for playing these sports. Therefore, "YMCAS" is the appropriate answer indicating the facilities where racquetball and basketball were first played, abbreviated for short.
A, in German
Answer: EINE
In German, "eine" is the indefinite article equivalent to "a" or "an" in English. It is used before feminine nouns to indicate that the noun is singular and indefinite. Therefore, "EINE" is the appropriate answer representing the German word for "a."
Partner of AFTRA
Answer: SAG
SAG stands for the Screen Actors Guild, a labor union representing film and television actors in the United States. SAG merged with the American Federation of Television and Radio Artists (AFTRA) in 2012 to form a single union known as SAG-AFTRA, which represents performers in both the entertainment and broadcasting industries. Therefore, "SAG" is the appropriate answer representing the partner of AFTRA in the merged union.
“I think …,” online
Answer: IMO
"IMO" is an acronym commonly used in online communication, standing for "in my opinion." It is often used to preface a statement or observation with the acknowledgment that it represents the personal viewpoint of the speaker. Therefore, "IMO" is the appropriate answer indicating the phrase "I think," especially when expressed online.
Director Brooks
Answer: MEL
Mel Brooks is a renowned American filmmaker, actor, comedian, and composer known for his work in the film industry. He is best known for directing and producing several classic comedy films, including "Blazing Saddles," "Young Frankenstein," and "The Producers." Therefore, "MEL" is the appropriate answer representing the first name of the director Mel Brooks.
Director DuVernay
Answer: AVA
Ava DuVernay is a highly acclaimed American filmmaker, producer, and director known for her work in both film and television. She has directed notable films such as "Selma" and "A Wrinkle in Time," as well as the documentary "13th." DuVernay is also known for her advocacy for diversity and inclusion in the entertainment industry. Therefore, "AVA" is the appropriate answer representing the first name of the director Ava DuVernay.
