NYT Crossword Clues, Answers Updated April 10, 2024

Solve this NYT crossword and learn the basic techniques and strategies of crosswords, and we have included the answers below in this article.

by Dheshni | Updated Apr 10, 2024

NYT Crossword

The NYT Crossword is a famous puzzle with various levels and topics. You're given a grid with empty spaces to fill using clues. Clues vary in difficulty, which further tests your word skills. Each puzzle has a theme, and as you solve many crosswords, you become better at solving them.

As you further progress through the levels, you'll find yourself improving your puzzle-solving skills and becoming a solver by identifying the clues instantly. But anyway, we have provided the answers for better clarity.

Response to “Have a nice day!”

Answer: YOUTOO

When someone wishes you a nice day, a polite and common response is to reciprocate the sentiment. "You too" is a concise way to convey the same wish back to the person who initiated the well-wishing.

Cribs

Answer: PADS

In the context of a crossword puzzle, "cribs" likely refers to sleeping arrangements or places where infants rest. The answer "PADS" fits this context as it can refer to cushions or soft surfaces where one might lay down or rest, such as crib pads or crib mattresses.

Spell that’s “broken” by 23-Across

Answer: HEX

In the context of a crossword puzzle, the term "spell" often refers to a magical incantation or a period of enchantment. The clue suggests that the word "HEX" is "broken" by 23-Across, meaning that part of the word intersects with or is influenced by the solution to 23-Across.

Hit song from “Flashdance”

Answer: MANIAC

The reference to "Flashdance" indicates a popular 1980s film known for its soundtrack. "Maniac" is one of the notable hit songs from the movie. It was performed by Michael Sembello and gained significant popularity, particularly due to its association with the film's iconic dance sequences.

Outside, as a pitch

Answer: AWAY

In the context of sports or sales, the term "pitch" often refers to a presentation or proposal. The clue "outside, as a pitch" suggests the word "AWAY," which can mean distant or not present, indicating a pitch that is not directly targeting or focused on its intended audience or location.

Place for a tiny hammer

Answer: EAR

In a crossword context, "Place for a tiny hammer" suggests a part of the body where a small tool might be used. The answer "EAR" fits this clue as it refers to the ear, where a tiny hammer, specifically the malleus bone in the middle ear, is involved in the process of hearing.

Popular Italian entree, informally

Answer: CHICKENPARM

This clue hints at a well-known Italian dish, commonly abbreviated in casual conversation. "CHICKENPARM" is a shortened form of Chicken Parmesan, a popular Italian-American entree consisting of breaded and fried chicken cutlets topped with marinara sauce and melted cheese, typically served over pasta.

Al Jolson’s actual first name

Answer: ASA

Al Jolson was a prominent American singer, actor, and comedian known for his performances in the early 20th century. His actual first name, as revealed by this clue, was "ASA." This fact might be less commonly known, making it a suitable clue for a crossword puzzle.

“La Cage ___ Folles”

Answer: AUX

"La Cage aux Folles" is a French phrase that translates to "The Cage of Madwomen" or "The Cage of Fools." In the context of the crossword, "AUX" is the abbreviation for the French preposition "aux," meaning "to the" or "at the," which is part of the title of the famous French play and subsequent adaptations, including the Broadway musical and film.

Traditional crustless fruit pie

Answer: APPLEBETTY

A "crustless fruit pie" indicates a dessert made with fruit but lacking a traditional pastry crust. "APPLEBETTY" is a type of dessert that fits this description. It typically consists of sliced or diced apples layered with buttered breadcrumbs or pastry crumbs and sweetened with sugar and spices. The term "BETTY" is often used to describe a dessert made with layers of fruit and breadcrumbs or pastry, thus making "APPLEBETTY" a suitable answer.

First U.S. secretary of war

Answer: HENRYKNOX

The clue refers to the individual who held the position of the first U.S. secretary of war. "HENRYKNOX" is the name of this historical figure. Henry Knox served as the Secretary of War under President George Washington from 1789 to 1794, playing a significant role in organizing the early United States military.

“This looks bad for me!”

Answer: IMTOAST

The phrase "This looks bad for me!" is an expression indicating that a situation appears unfavorable or dire for the speaker. "IMTOAST" is a colloquial way of saying "I'm toast," which is an idiom meaning that someone is in trouble or facing imminent defeat or consequences.

Fatty acid compound

Answer: OLEATE

A "fatty acid compound" refers to a chemical compound derived from fatty acids. "OLEATE" specifically refers to the salt or ester of oleic acid, a monounsaturated omega-9 fatty acid found in various animal and vegetable fats and oils. In biochemistry, oleates play important roles as components of cell membranes and as intermediates in metabolic pathways.

Beginner gamers, in lingo

Answer: NOOBS

In gaming culture, particularly among online gamers, newcomers or inexperienced players are often referred to as "NOOBS." This term is derived from "newbies" or "newbs" and is used to describe those who lack skill or experience in a particular game or gaming environment.

Kiln for hops

Answer: OAST

A "kiln for hops" refers to a structure used in the drying process of hops, a key ingredient in brewing beer. The answer "OAST" specifically denotes a kiln designed for drying hops, commonly found in regions where hop cultivation is prevalent, such as in beer-producing areas

When doubled, beanie topper

Answer: POM

The clue suggests a term related to the decorative feature commonly found on the top of beanies or winter hats. When "doubled," meaning repeated, "POM" indicates the pom-pom, a fluffy ball or tuft of fabric typically attached to the crown of a hat for decorative purposes.

Spell that’s “broken” by 59-Across

Answer: CURSE

In the context of a crossword puzzle, the term "spell" often refers to a magical incantation or a period of enchantment. The clue suggests that the word "CURSE" is "broken" by 59-Across, meaning that part of the word intersects with or is influenced by the solution to 59-Across.

Play date participant

Answer: TOT

A "play date participant" typically refers to a young child who engages in social activities with another child or group of children. "TOT" is a colloquial term for a small child or toddler, making it a suitable answer for this clue. Play dates often involve young children spending time together in play or recreational activities.

Spell that’s “broken” by 17-Across

Answer: CHARM

In the context of a crossword puzzle, the term "spell" often refers to a magical incantation or a period of enchantment. The clue suggests that the word "CHARM" is "broken" by 17-Across, meaning that part of the word intersects with or is influenced by the solution to 17-Across.

Device first deployed in the U.S. by Chemical Bank (1969)

Answer: ATM

The clue refers to a technological device that was first introduced in the United States by Chemical Bank in 1969. "ATM" stands for Automated Teller Machine, a device that allows individuals to perform banking transactions, such as withdrawing cash or checking their account balance, without the need for human assistance.

Actress Palmer with a reduplicative name

Answer: KEKE

The clue indicates an actress whose name includes a reduplicative pattern, where a syllable or sound is repeated. "KEKE" refers to Keke Palmer, an American actress known for her roles in various films and television shows, including her breakthrough performance in "Akeelah and the Bee" and her work on "Scream Queens" and "Hustlers."

Feeder of the iliac arteries

Answer: AORTA

The clue refers to a major artery in the human body that supplies oxygenated blood to various organs and tissues. The "aorta" is the largest artery in the body and originates from the heart's left ventricle, distributing blood to the systemic circulation. It gives rise to several branches, including the iliac arteries, which supply blood to the pelvis and lower limbs.

Shepherd formerly of “The View”

Answer: SHERRI

The clue indicates a former co-host of the daytime talk show "The View." "SHERRI" refers to Sherri Shepherd, an American actress, comedian, and television personality who was a co-host on "The View" from 2007 to 2014. Shepherd is known for her comedic talents and her outspoken personality on the show.

Fees that may be based on cost-per-click

Answer: ADRATES

The clue suggests a term related to fees charged for advertising services, specifically those that could be determined by the cost-per-click model. "ADRATES" refers to advertising rates, which are the fees charged by media outlets or platforms for displaying advertisements. In the context of online advertising, cost-per-click (CPC) is a common pricing model where advertisers pay a fee each time their ad is clicked.

Container in a kid’s backpack

Answer: PENCILBOX

The clue hints at an item commonly found in a child's backpack, which serves as a container for holding pencils and other stationary items. "PENCILBOX" fits this description perfectly, as it is a small container designed to store pencils, pens, erasers, and other school supplies conveniently within a backpack or school bag.

Crayola color that debuted in 1972

Answer: HOTMAGENTA

This clue refers to a specific color introduced by Crayola, the renowned manufacturer of crayons and other art supplies. "HOTMAGENTA" is the name of the crayon color that debuted in 1972. Crayola often introduces new colors to its crayon lineup, and "HOTMAGENTA" was one such addition in the early 1970s

Make public

Answer: AIR

The clue suggests a term meaning to reveal or broadcast something to the public. "AIR" fits this description as it can mean to broadcast or transmit something over the airwaves, making it accessible to the public. This term is commonly used in the context of airing television shows, radio programs, or news broadcasts.

Mess up

Answer: ERR

The clue indicates a term meaning to make a mistake or to do something incorrectly. "ERR" is a verb that precisely conveys this meaning, as it refers to making an error or committing a fault. In everyday language, "ERR" is often used to describe instances where someone makes a mistake or deviates from the correct course of action.

Intensive study program

Answer: CRASHCOURSE

This clue refers to a type of educational program designed to provide a condensed and intensive study of a subject within a short period. "CRASHCOURSE" fits this description perfectly as it signifies a rapid and concentrated learning experience, often undertaken to acquire essential knowledge or skills quickly, such as before an exam or deadline.

Sheltered side

Answer: LEE

In the context of the crossword clue, "sheltered side" typically refers to the side of an object or structure that is protected from the wind or adverse weather conditions. "LEE" specifically denotes this sheltered side, often used in nautical or meteorological contexts to describe the side of an island, mountain, or building that is shielded from the prevailing wind.

Shock, in a way

Answer: TASE

The clue hints at a method of inducing shock or incapacitation, often used in law enforcement or self-defense. "TASE" refers to the act of using a Taser, a type of electroshock weapon that delivers an electric shock to temporarily immobilize a person by disrupting their neuromuscular system.

Word derived from the Arabic for “lot”

Answer: KISMET

This clue points to a word of Arabic origin that has been adopted into English and is used to describe fate, destiny, or predetermined fortune. "KISMET" is derived from the Arabic word "qismah," meaning "portion" or "lot." In English, "KISMET" often refers to a predetermined course of events or a fortunate outcome that is believed to be destined

Spell that’s “broken” by 49-Across

Answer: POX

In the context of a crossword puzzle, the term "spell" often refers to a magical incantation or a period of enchantment. The clue suggests that the word "POX" is "broken" by 49-Across, meaning that part of the word intersects with or is influenced by the solution to 49-Across.

Not delete

Answer: STET

In editing and proofreading, the term "STET" is used to indicate that a previously marked change or deletion should be disregarded and left as it was originally. It essentially means "let it stand" in Latin and is often written in the margin of a document to instruct the typesetter or editor not to make the proposed alteration

Killed it at open mic night, say

Answer: SLAYED

This clue suggests a phrase meaning to perform exceptionally well, especially in a public performance setting like an open mic night. "SLAYED" is a colloquial term used to describe someone who delivered a highly impressive or successful performance, often receiving enthusiastic praise or applause from the audience

Org. often referred to by its first letter

Answer: YMCA

The clue hints at an organization that is commonly abbreviated and referred to by its initials. "YMCA" stands for Young Men's Christian Association, an international organization focused on youth development, healthy living, and social responsibility. It provides various programs and services to promote physical fitness, community involvement, and personal growth.

Island that’s home to a state capital

Answer: OAHU

This clue refers to an island in the Hawaiian archipelago that serves as the location of a state capital. "OAHU" is one of the major islands of Hawaii and is home to the state capital, Honolulu. Honolulu is the political, cultural, and economic center of Hawaii, making Oahu a significant and bustling island in the Pacific.

What macOS is based on

Answer: UNIX

This clue pertains to the underlying operating system architecture of macOS, the operating system developed by Apple Inc. "UNIX" is the foundation upon which macOS is built. UNIX is a family of multitasking, multi-user computer operating systems that provide a stable and secure environment for various computing tasks. macOS incorporates UNIX principles and features, contributing to its stability and reliability as an operating system.

Game piece?

Answer: TIC

The clue suggests a term related to a small mark or movement often associated with a game. "TIC" fits this description as it can refer to a small and sudden movement or action, such as marking a square in Tic-Tac-Toe or making a quick decision or action in a game.

Cabinet material

Answer: OAK

This clue refers to a type of wood commonly used in the construction of cabinets. "OAK" is a durable and attractive hardwood that is frequently chosen for its strength, grain pattern, and versatility. Cabinets made from oak are known for their sturdiness and timeless aesthetic appeal.

Loads

Answer: OCEANS

The clue indicates a term related to a large quantity or abundance. "OCEANS" fits this description metaphorically, suggesting an immense or vast amount of something. In everyday language, "loads" can be used informally to convey a significant or overwhelming quantity, akin to the vastness of oceans

Father, in regional lingo

Answer: PAPPY

This clue hints at a regional or colloquial term used to refer to a father figure. "PAPPY" is one such term, often used in certain dialects or regions to affectionately address or describe one's father. It evokes a sense of familiarity and warmth, commonly associated with informal or familial language

___ in the park

Answer: AWALK

The clue suggests completing the phrase "___ in the park," indicating a leisurely activity commonly associated with outdoor recreation. "AWALK" fits this context, as taking a walk in the park is a popular pastime for relaxation, exercise, and enjoying nature. The answer completes the phrase and fits the theme of outdoor activities.

Be afraid to

Answer: DARENOT

This clue hints at a phrase meaning to lack the courage or willingness to do something due to fear or apprehension. "DARENOT" fits this description, as it combines the verb "dare" with the adverb "not" to form a phrase indicating reluctance or hesitation to undertake a particular action due to fear or caution.

Semiotician’s interest

Answer: SYMBOL

A semiotician is someone who studies semiotics, the field of study concerned with signs and symbols and their interpretation or significance. "SYMBOL" is a central concept in semiotics, referring to an object, word, or image that represents something else by association, resemblance, or convention. Semioticians are interested in understanding how symbols convey meaning and communicate ideas within cultural contexts.

Recipe verb

Answer: HEAT

In cooking terminologies, a "recipe verb" refers to an action or instruction commonly found in recipes. "HEAT" fits this description perfectly, as it is often used in cooking instructions to indicate the application of heat to ingredients, typically on a stove, in an oven, or over a flame, in order to cook or prepare a dish

Where runway 9 is always oriented at an airport

Answer: EAST

In aviation, runways are typically numbered based on their orientation relative to magnetic north. The clue "Where runway 9 is always oriented at an airport" suggests that runway 9 is aligned in a specific direction, and the answer is the cardinal direction where this orientation is constant. "EAST" fits this description, indicating that runway 9 is always oriented towards the east.

… Whiskey, ___, Yankee …

Answer: XRAY

The clue refers to a sequence of letters often used in communication, particularly in the military or aviation contexts. "Whiskey, Xray, Yankee" is the NATO phonetic alphabet sequence for the letters W, X, and Y respectively. Each word in the sequence represents a letter and is commonly used to spell out words or convey information over radio or telephone communications

Iconic fund-raising “thank you” gift

Answer: NPRTOTE

This clue hints at a common item given as a token of appreciation to donors during fundraising campaigns. "NPRTOTE" refers to a tote bag featuring the logo or branding of National Public Radio (NPR), a prominent non-profit media organization. NPR often offers tote bags as gifts to individuals who donate to support their programming and operations.

PC program file extension

Answer: EXE

In computing, file extensions are used to indicate the file type or format of a particular file. "EXE" is a common file extension used on PCs, standing for "executable." Files with the ".exe" extension contain executable code that can be run or executed by the computer's operating system, typically to launch or run a software program or application

Canterbury cooktops

Answer: HOBS

The clue suggests a term related to kitchen appliances commonly used for cooking. "HOBS" refers to the cooking surfaces on ranges or stoves, particularly in British English. In Canterbury, a city in England, "HOBS" are a common feature in kitchens, providing heat sources for cooking food.

Gently acclimate, with “in”

Answer: EASE

The clue suggests a verb meaning to gradually become accustomed to something, particularly with the preposition "in" indicating the manner of acclimation. "EASE" fits this description as it means to make something less difficult or to move gently and gradually, implying a process of adjustment or acclimatization.

Atahualpa’s subjects

Answer: INCAS

This clue refers to the indigenous people who were subjects of Atahualpa, a prominent ruler of the Inca Empire. "INCAS" denotes the indigenous people of South America who inhabited the Andean region and were ruled by the Inca kings, including Atahualpa, before the arrival of the Spanish conquistadors.

Communicate silently, in a way

Answer: MOUTH

The clue hints at a verb meaning to convey a message or communicate without speaking aloud, suggesting a silent form of communication. "MOUTH" fits this description as it can mean to form words or convey information with the lips and facial expressions without producing sound, such as silently mouthing words to communicate a message.

Crooner Mel

Answer: TORME

This clue refers to a well-known singer and entertainer named Mel. "TORME" is the surname of Mel Tormé, a celebrated American jazz singer, composer, and actor known for his smooth vocal style and popular hits such as "The Christmas Song" (also known as "Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire"). Tormé was prominent in the music industry during the mid-20th century.

In a bicoastal relationship, say

Answer: APART

The clue suggests a term indicating the status or condition of being physically separated or distant, as might occur in a bicoastal relationship where partners reside on opposite coasts of a country. "APART" fits this description, conveying the idea of being separated or apart from each other geographically.

Linzer ___ (pastry)

Answer: TORTE

This clue refers to a type of pastry known as "Linzer Torte." A Linzer Torte is a traditional Austrian pastry consisting of a nutty, crumbly dough filled with fruit preserves, typically raspberry or blackcurrant jam, and topped with a lattice crust. It is named after the city of Linz in Austria and is popular during the holiday season

Heroines in novels by Flaubert and Austen

Answer: EMMAS

The clue indicates the names of female protagonists from novels written by famous authors. "EMMAS" refers to two such heroines: Emma Bovary from Gustave Flaubert's novel "Madame Bovary" and Emma Woodhouse from Jane Austen's novel "Emma." Both characters are central to their respective stories and are known for their complexity and depth.

Fine and dandy

Answer: AOK

This clue suggests a phrase meaning everything is in good order or satisfactory. "AOK" is a colloquial abbreviation for "all okay," indicating that everything is fine, dandy, or in satisfactory condition. It is often used informally to convey reassurance or approval.

Ninja’s forte

Answer: STEALTH

This clue refers to a characteristic or skill associated with ninjas, who are known for their expertise in covert operations and stealthy movements. "STEALTH" denotes the ability to move quietly and avoid detection, which is a crucial aspect of ninja training and tactics. Ninjas rely on stealth to accomplish their missions and remain unseen by their adversaries.

Dear, in Italian

Answer: CARO

The clue indicates a term of endearment or affection in the Italian language. "CARO" is the Italian word for "dear," which can be used to express fondness or closeness towards someone. It is commonly used in addressing loved ones or close friends.

The Cardiff Giant, for one

Answer: HOAX

This clue suggests a term related to a deception or fraudulent scheme. "HOAX" fits this description, as the Cardiff Giant refers to a famous archaeological hoax perpetrated in the 19th century. The Cardiff Giant was a purported petrified human figure discovered in Cardiff, New York, in 1869, but was later revealed to be a hoax created by George Hull

1965 film starring George Segal that was set in a P.O.W. camp

Answer: KINGRAT

This clue refers to a specific film released in 1965 that features actor George Segal and is set in a prisoner-of-war (P.O.W.) camp. "KINGRAT" is the title of the film, which is based on a novel by James Clavell. The movie depicts the experiences of American prisoners during World War II and explores themes of survival and camaraderie

Tach measure

Answer: RPM

This clue suggests an abbreviation related to measuring the speed of rotation of a machine or engine. "RPM" stands for revolutions per minute, which is a unit of measurement used to quantify the rotational speed of a mechanical component, such as an engine's crankshaft or a vehicle's wheels, indicating the number of full revolutions completed in one minute.

Flinches or smiles, e.g.

Answer: REACTS

The clue suggests a verb that describes a variety of responses to stimuli or situations. "REACTS" fits this description as it encompasses a range of actions or behaviors in response to external factors, such as flinching in response to a sudden noise or smiling in reaction to a joke or pleasant surprise.

Winners over the Yanks in the 2001 World Series

Answer: DBACKS

This clue refers to the victorious team in the 2001 World Series, specifically those who defeated the New York Yankees. "DBACKS" is the abbreviated name for the Arizona Diamondbacks, the Major League Baseball team that emerged victorious over the Yankees in the 2001 World Series, marking their first championship win in franchise history.

Stop

Answer: CEASE

The clue suggests a verb meaning to bring an action or process to an end. "CEASE" fits this description as it means to stop or discontinue something, indicating a cessation or termination of activity or behavior.

Like crown jewels

Answer: INSET

This clue indicates a characteristic or quality shared by crown jewels, which are typically adorned with precious gems or stones. "INSET" suggests that the jewels are set into a larger framework or structure, emphasizing their placement within a setting rather than being standalone items.

Give a boost

Answer: HELP

The clue suggests a verb meaning to provide assistance or support to someone or something in order to improve or enhance their situation. "HELP" fits this description as it means to give aid or assistance, offering a boost or assistance to overcome obstacles or achieve goals.

Popular name for a tuxedo cat

Answer: OREO

This clue suggests a commonly used name for a tuxedo-patterned cat, which typically has black and white fur resembling the coloration of an Oreo cookie. "OREO" is a popular choice for naming tuxedo cats due to the resemblance of their fur to the iconic black and white sandwich cookie produced by the Nabisco company.

Prehistoric predator, informally

Answer: TREX

This clue refers to a well-known dinosaur species known for its formidable size and ferocious nature. "TREX" is the colloquial abbreviation for Tyrannosaurus rex, one of the largest carnivorous dinosaurs to have ever lived. The T. rex is a prominent figure in popular culture and is often depicted as a fearsome predator in movies, books, and other media.

“Gee, I Wish I Was Back in the ___” (song from “White Christmas”)

Answer: ARMY

"White Christmas." "Gee, I Wish I Was Back in the Army" is a song featured in the movie, performed by the characters played by Bing Crosby and Rosemary Clooney. The song nostalgically recalls the experiences of soldiers during wartime and expresses a longing to return to military life.

“Mm-hmm”

Answer: ISEE

The clue indicates a verbal expression commonly used to signify agreement or understanding. "ISEE" is an informal response used to acknowledge comprehension or to indicate agreement with something that has been said. It is often used in casual conversation to convey understanding or affirmation

No longer working: Abbr.

Answer: RETD

This clue suggests an abbreviation indicating that someone is no longer actively employed. "RETD" is the abbreviation for "retired," indicating that the individual has ceased working, typically after reaching a certain age or completing a designated period of service in their career.

How John D. Rockefeller made his money

Answer: OIL

This clue refers to the primary source of wealth for American industrialist John D. Rockefeller. Rockefeller made his fortune primarily through the oil industry, particularly through the founding and expansion of the Standard Oil Company. By controlling the majority of oil refineries and pipelines in the United States during the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Rockefeller became one of the wealthiest individuals in history.

Letters on a Forever stamp

Answer: USA

Forever stamps are a type of postage stamp issued by the United States Postal Service (USPS). The letters "USA" typically appear on Forever stamps as part of the stamp design, serving as a symbolic representation of the country of origin for the stamp. "USA" stands for the United States of America, indicating that the stamp can be used to send mail within the United States without the need to add additional postage, regardless of future rate increases.

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