NYT Crossword Answers Solved for March 20, 2024 Puzzle
by Sangeetha M
Updated Mar 20, 2024
NYT Crossword Answers
The NYT Crossword used to be tough with tricky themes and not-so-important questions. But now, we're here to help. We'll make solving your puzzles easier. You can find answers to the tough ones you've been stuck on, or check your answers with us.
Twitch, e.g.
Answer: SPASM
A spasm is a sudden, involuntary contraction of muscles, often causing a quick and uncontrollable movement. This fits perfectly with the clue "Twitch, e.g.," as a twitch is a brief, involuntary movement, which can be considered a type of spasm. Therefore, "SPASM" is the answer that matches both the clue and the definition provided.
“Highway to Hell” band
Answer: ACDC
The answer "ACDC" fits perfectly with the clue. AC/DC is a legendary Australian rock band known for iconic songs such as "Highway to Hell," "Back in Black," and "Thunderstruck." Therefore, "ACDC" is the appropriate answer that corresponds to the band responsible for the song mentioned in the clu
“Go ___” (game cry)
Answer: FISH
While "Go fish" is a phrase often associated with the card game of the same name, the word "fish" is what fits into the blank in the provided clue.
Marx brother with a curly wig
Answer: HARPO
The Marx brother with a curly wig is "HARPO" (one of the Marx Brothers, known for his curly wig, hence "Marx brother with a curly wig").
“Wait, what?!”
Answer: WHOA
"WHOA" is the perfect fit for this clue. It's a common interjection used exactly in the context described by the clue. When someone hears surprising or unexpected news, they might exclaim "Wait, what?!" to express their astonishment or to request clarification. "WHOA" captures this sentiment succinctly and effectively, making it the appropriate answer for the crossword clue.
End of a noodle?
Answer: IDEA
"IDEA" fits the clue perfectly. The "end" of a thought process or mental exploration can indeed be an idea—a conclusion or concept that emerges from one's thinking. While a noodle's physical end might not be relevant here, the end or conclusion of a thought process is often represented by an idea. Therefore, "IDEA" is the appropriate answer that corresponds to the abstract interpretation of "end of a noodle" in the clue.
101
Answer: INTROCLASS
"INTROCLASS" is a term that fits the clue's context perfectly. It refers to an introductory class, often denoted by "101" in course numbering systems. Courses labeled as "101" typically cover fundamental concepts or serve as an introduction to a subject. Therefore, "INTROCLASS" is the appropriate answer that corresponds to the clue's indication of a basic or introductory level.
007
Answer: BOND
"BOND" is the perfect fit for this clue. It refers to James Bond, a fictional character created by Ian Fleming, who is famously known as Agent 007 in the series of spy novels and films. Therefore, "BOND" is the appropriate answer that corresponds to the clue's reference to the character with the code number "007."
Seder holiday
Answer: PESACH
"PESACH" is the perfect fit for this clue. It refers to the Jewish holiday of Passover, also known as Pesach. During Passover, families gather for the Seder meal, which commemorates the Israelites' liberation from slavery in ancient Egypt. Therefore, "PESACH" is the appropriate answer that corresponds to the clue's reference to the holiday involving the Seder meal.
Reach a max
Answer: PEAK
"PEAK" is the fitting response to this clue. It denotes the highest point or summit, such as the peak of a mountain or the peak of one's abilities. Therefore, "PEAK" is the appropriate answer that corresponds to the clue's indication of reaching a maximum level.
“Just kidding!”
Answer: NOT
"NOT" is a common phrase used to indicate negation or reversal, often employed to clarify that a statement was meant as a joke or jest, as in "just kidding." Therefore, "NOT" is the appropriate answer that corresponds to the clue's indication of retracting or clarifying a previous statement.
Passing fancy
Answer: WHIM
The answer to this clue is "WHIM." A whim is a sudden and impulsive thought or desire, often fleeting and without much consideration. It fits perfectly with the idea of a "passing fancy" because it implies something temporary and not deeply rooted.
Small intimate restaurant
Answer: BISTRO
The clue "Small intimate restaurant" suggests that we are looking for a type of eatery that is cozy and typically offers a relaxed atmosphere. The answer "BISTRO" fits this description, as it refers to a small, casual dining establishment, often serving simple and hearty meals in a cozy setting.
Berate, with “out”
Answer: BAWL
It means to cry out loudly, but it can also be used to describe someone scolding or berating someone else in a loud and forceful manner. The inclusion of "out" in the clue emphasizes that the action is done loudly and with intensity. Therefore, "BAWL" fits the clue's description of berating someone with forcefulness.
420
Answer: CANNABIS
It refers to the plant species that includes marijuana, which is often associated with the number "420" due to its connection with cannabis culture and the celebration of cannabis use on April 20th (4/20). Therefore, "CANNABIS" is the appropriate answer that corresponds to the clue's reference to the association of the number "420" with marijuana.
Cry repeated in the 1980s dance tune “Hot Hot Hot”
Answer: OLE
In the song "Hot Hot Hot," originally performed by Arrow in 1982, the word "Ole" is indeed repeated throughout the chorus as a celebratory exclamation. Therefore, "OLE" fits the clue's description of a cry repeated in the song "Hot Hot Hot."
Czech form of Charles
Answer: KAREL
"KAREL" is the appropriate answer for this clue. In Czech, "Karel" is the equivalent form of the English name "Charles." Therefore, "KAREL" fits the clue's description of the Czech form of Charles.
Subjects of a “Twist on it” ad campaign
Answer: OREOS
Oreo cookies were the subjects of a well-known advertising campaign with the slogan "Twist on it," highlighting the unique way of eating Oreos by twisting them apart before consuming them. Therefore, "OREOS" fits the clue's description of the product featured in the "Twist on it" ad campaign.
Instrument for Bela Fleck
Answer: BANJO
"BANJO" is the appropriate answer for this clue. Bela Fleck is a renowned banjo player, known for his virtuosic skills on the instrument. Therefore, "BANJO" fits the clue's description of the instrument associated with Bela Fleck.
Mini maker
Answer: BMW
BMW (Bayerische Motoren Werke) is the parent company that manufactures the Mini brand of cars. Mini is a subsidiary of BMW, known for producing compact and stylish vehicles. Therefore, "BMW" fits the clue's description of the company that makes the Mini automobiles.
Prolonged attack
Answer: SIEGE
A siege is indeed a prolonged attack or military operation in which a fortified place, such as a city or fortress, is surrounded and isolated by enemy forces with the intent of compelling surrender or conquest. Therefore, "SIEGE" fits the clue's description of a prolonged attack.
Eponym of a neighborhood in Queens
Answer: ASTOR
The neighborhood of Astoria in Queens, New York, is named after John Jacob Astor, a prominent businessman and investor who was one of the wealthiest individuals in American history. Therefore, "ASTOR" fits the clue's description of the person whose name is associated with a neighborhood in Queens.
This sucks!
Answer: LEECH
"LEECH" is the fitting answer for this clue. A leech is a blood-sucking worm-like creature that attaches itself to a host and draws blood, often considered unpleasant or undesirable. Therefore, "LEECH" accurately represents something that "sucks" in a literal sense.
Anger
Answer: IRE
"IRE" is the suitable answer for this clue. It refers to intense anger or wrath, capturing the essence of the feeling described in the clue. Therefore, "IRE" aligns with the clue's indication of anger.
666
Answer: THEBEAST
In Christian tradition, "The Beast" is a symbolic representation of evil mentioned in the Book of Revelation in the New Testament. The number "666" is commonly associated with this figure. Therefore, "THEBEAST" aligns with the clue's indication of the symbolic entity represented by the number "666."
Arise (from)
Answer: STEM
"STEM" is the fitting answer for this clue. In this context, "stem" can mean to arise or emerge from a particular source or starting point. Additionally, "stem" can also mean to stop the flow of something, which further supports the idea of arising or emerging.
Like some music that’s challenging to sing
Answer: ATONAL
Atonal music is characterized by the absence of a tonal center or key, often featuring dissonant harmonies and unconventional melodic structures. Such music can indeed be challenging to sing or perform, as it lacks the familiar tonal framework found in traditional Western music.
Golf hazard
Answer: TRAP
In the context of golf, a "trap" refers to a hazard or obstacle on the course, typically filled with sand, known as a sand trap or bunker. Golfers aim to avoid landing their ball in traps, as it can make the next shot more difficult. Therefore, "TRAP" aligns with the clue's indication of a golf hazard.
Shout after sneaking up on someone
Answer: BOO
"BOO" is the fitting answer for this clue. It's a common exclamation used to startle or surprise someone, often said playfully or as a prank. When someone sneaks up on another person and wants to surprise them, they might shout "BOO" to elicit a reaction. Therefore, "BOO" aligns with the clue's indication of a shout made after sneaking up on someone.
Really not feeling it?
Answer: NUMB
It means lacking physical sensation or emotional responsiveness. When someone is "numb," they may not feel physical sensations or emotional responses strongly, or they may feel nothing at all. Therefore, "NUMB" aligns with the clue's indication of not feeling sensation or emotion strongly.
Members of a woolly herd
Answer: LLAMAS
"LLAMAS" is the appropriate answer for this clue. Llamas are domesticated South American camelids known for their thick, woolly coats. They are often found in herds and are prized for their wool, used in various textile products. Therefore, "LLAMAS" aligns with the clue's indication of animals that are part of a woolly herd.
411
Answer: INFO
"INFO" serves as an appropriate answer to the crossword clue "411," as it effectively communicates the idea of seeking or providing information.
360
Answer: FULLCIRCLE
"360" and its metaphorical interpretation, the answer "FULLCIRCLE" perfectly fits the bill. "FULLCIRCLE" denotes the concept of coming back to the starting point or completing a cycle. It encapsulates the idea of returning to a previous state or situation, often with a deeper understanding or perspective gained from the journey.
Pricey
Answer: DEAR
"DEAR" fits well with the clue's context. "DEAR" can mean both cherished or loved and expensive or high-priced. In this case, it's used to convey the idea of something being costly, which aligns perfectly with the clue "Pricey."
Chimney vent
Answer: FLUE
"FLUE" directly corresponds to the clue "Chimney vent," as it accurately describes the specific part of a chimney responsible for facilitating the release of gases and smoke.
Spanish for “roasted”
Answer: ASADA
"Spanish for 'roasted'" indicates that we are seeking a Spanish word that corresponds to the English term "roasted." In Spanish cuisine, the word "asada" is commonly used to describe meat that has been cooked by roasting or grilling. Therefore, when translated, "asada" means "roasted" in English.
Commits a faux pas
Answer: ERRS
The clue "Commits a faux pas" suggests that we are looking for a word that describes making a social blunder or mistake. In this context, the word "errs" is a suitable answer. To "err" means to make a mistake or to do something incorrectly. When someone commits a faux pas, they are essentially making a social mistake or misstep.
Toy on many a vintage Christmas card
Answer: SLED
"Toy on many a vintage Christmas card" is SLED, as sleds are a traditional and iconic toy often featured in vintage Christmas illustrations, capturing the spirit of the holiday season.
Determined to do
Answer: SETON
The clue "Determined to do" suggests that we're looking for a phrase that means being resolute or fixed on accomplishing something. In this context, "SET ON" fits the description.
Arizona in Hawaii, e.g.
Answer: SHIP
"Arizona in Hawaii, e.g." is SHIP, as it represents the type of vessel the USS Arizona was—a ship that was stationed in Hawaii and met its tragic fate during the attack on Pearl Harbor.
One in a mullion?
Answer: PANE
The term "One in a mullion" suggests that we are looking for a singular component of the mullion structure. The answer "PANE" fits this description, as it refers to a single sheet of glass within a window or door frame.
Ceramics, cinema, etc.
Answer: ARTS
"Ceramics, cinema, etc." is ARTS, as it encompasses a wide range of creative disciplines and cultural activities, including but not limited to ceramics and cinema. The term "arts" encompasses various forms of artistic expression, such as painting, sculpture, literature, music, dance, theater, and more.
Manspread, e.g.
Answer: SPRAWL
"Manspread, e.g.," we are prompted to identify a term that describes the action of spreading out in a relaxed or casual manner, potentially encroaching on surrounding space. "SPRAWL" refers to the act of stretching out one's limbs in a relaxed or careless manner, often taking up more space than necessary. It can involve sitting or lying down with limbs extended outward, similar to the behavior exhibited when manspreading.
Be a sponge
Answer: MOOCH
"Be a sponge" is MOOCH. "Mooch" refers to the act of obtaining things, especially food or money, from others without giving anything in return. It suggests a form of dependency or reliance on others for resources or assistance, akin to how a sponge absorbs liquid.
Hole-punching tool
Answer: AWL
The sharp tip of the awl allows for precise hole-punching, making it useful in various crafting and DIY projects. In the context of the crossword clue, "Hole-punching tool" suggests an item used specifically for creating holes, which fits the description of an awl perfectly. Therefore, the answer to the clue is "AWL."
Become dry, as lips
Answer: CHAP
"Become dry, as lips" is CHAP. "Chap" is a verb that means to cause something to become dry, rough, or cracked, especially in reference to the skin or lips. So, when lips lose moisture and become dry, they can be described as "chapping."
Pharmacist’s amount
Answer: DOSE
Of course! The clue "Pharmacist's amount" suggests a term related to the quantity of medication that a pharmacist would dispense. In pharmacy, the amount of medication prescribed for a patient is typically referred to as a "DOSE." Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "Pharmacist's amount" is "DOSE." This term signifies the specific quantity of medication to be taken at one time or over a specified period as directed by a healthcare provider.
Winter melon
Answer: CASABA
"Winter melon" suggests a type of melon that is typically associated with the winter season. One common type of winter melon is the Casaba melon. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "Winter melon" is "CASABA." The Casaba melon is known for its sweet flavor and pale green to yellowish skin.
“I’m busy that night,” often
Answer: FIB
One common phrase used in such situations is "I have other plans," which is often a polite way of declining an invitation without providing specific details. In a crossword context, the term for providing a misleading excuse or fabrication is a "FIB." Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "I'm busy that night," often is "FIB," as it represents the act of making up an excuse to avoid an event or commitment.
“Where?”
Answer: IDONTSEEIT
In the context of the crossword puzzle, "IDONTSEEIT" serves as a playful response to the question "Where?", indicating that the item being sought is not visible or readily apparent.
Title with a tilde
Answer: SENOR
The clue "Title with a tilde" suggests a title or honorific commonly used in Spanish-speaking countries that includes a tilde accent mark. In Spanish, the title "Señor" (often abbreviated as "Sr.") is used to address or refer to a man with respect, similar to the English title "Mr." The tilde accent mark (~) appears above the letter "n" in "Señor," indicating the pronunciation of the "ny" sound in Spanish. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "Title with a tilde" is "SEÑOR," as it is a title commonly used with a tilde accent mark in Spanish.
Was left with no other choice
Answer: HADTO
"Was left with no other choice" implies a situation where someone had to take a particular course of action due to circumstances or constraints. In such a scenario, the phrase "HAD TO" indicates that there was no alternative option available and the action was necessary. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "Was left with no other choice" is "HADTO," as it signifies the necessity of a particular action when no other options are available.
Niña
Answer: CHICA
The clue "Niña" suggests a Spanish word that translates to "girl" in English. In Spanish, "CHICA" is a common term used to refer to a young girl or a woman. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "Niña" is "CHICA," as it accurately translates to "girl" in English and fits the given clue.
Full stop
Answer: KIBOSH
The word "kibosh" is often used informally to mean to put a stop to something or to end it abruptly. It can be used to signify the conclusion or termination of an activity, plan, or discussion. In this context, "kibosh" serves as a synonym for a full stop, indicating the cessation or conclusion of something.
Kind of cake with a swirl
Answer: MARBLE
A "marble cake" is a type of cake that features a swirling pattern created by blending together two different colored batters, typically chocolate and vanilla. The swirl effect resembles the appearance of marble stone, hence the name. So, "Marble" fits the clue "Kind of cake with a swirl."
Norwegian name that gained global prominence in 2010
Answer: SIRI
This clue suggests that we are looking for a name that originates from Norway and became well-known worldwide in the year 2010. The answer, "SIRI," fits this description as it refers to the voice-activated virtual assistant developed by Apple, first introduced on the iPhone 4S in 2011, but its development began in Norway in 2007 before Apple acquired the company in 2010.
___ Fett, “Star Wars” bounty hunter
Answer: BOBA
The clue "___ Fett, 'Star Wars' bounty hunter" prompts the name of a character from the "Star Wars" franchise known for his role as a bounty hunter. The character referred to is "BOBA Fett." Boba Fett is a notable character in the "Star Wars" universe, recognized for his distinctive armor and skill as a bounty hunter. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "___ Fett, 'Star Wars' bounty hunter" is "BOBA," as it completes the name of the character Boba Fett.
Sighed aside
Answer: ALAS
"Sighed aside" suggests a word or phrase that someone might say when expressing disappointment, sadness, or resignation. "ALAS" is a term often used to convey such emotions, typically indicating a feeling of regret or sorrow. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "Sighed aside" is "ALAS," as it represents an expression of sighing or lamentation in response to a disappointing or unfortunate situation.
Overstepped
Answer: WENTTOOFAR
Overstepped" means to exceed or go beyond the bounds of what is considered appropriate or acceptable. In the context of the clue, "WENTTOOFAR" can be interpreted as someone having overstepped their boundaries or acted inappropriately. Therefore, "Overstepped" fits the clue "WENTTOOFAR."
Site of a Herculean feat
Answer: NEMEA
In Greek mythology, one of the twelve labors of Hercules was to slay the Nemean Lion. Nemea was the site where this feat took place. The Nemean Lion was a formidable beast with an impenetrable hide, making it a Herculean task to defeat it. Therefore, "Nemea" fits the clue "Site of a Herculean feat."
Diamondbacks’ div.
Answer: NLWEST
In Major League Baseball, the Arizona Diamondbacks belong to the National League West division (NL West). Each team in MLB is part of one of two leagues: the National League or the American League. The NL West is one of the divisions within the National League, consisting of teams primarily located in the western United States. Therefore, "NLWEST" is the division to which the Diamondbacks belong, and it fits the clue "Diamondbacks’ div."
Like Kia and Samsung
Answer: KOREAN
"Like Kia and Samsung" suggests a common characteristic shared by both Kia Motors and Samsung, which is their origin or nationality. Both Kia Motors and Samsung are companies based in South Korea. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "Like Kia and Samsung" is "KOREAN," as it accurately describes the nationality or origin of these companies, indicating that they are from South Korea.
Folklore monster
Answer: OGRE
The clue "Folklore monster" suggests a mythical creature often depicted as large, ugly, and sometimes menacing in folklore and fairy tales. One such creature commonly found in folklore from various cultures is the "OGRE." Ogres are typically portrayed as brutish and monstrous beings that may live in remote areas like forests or caves. They are often depicted as fearsome creatures that may devour humans or cause harm.
Look
Answer: SEEM
The clue "Look" suggests a verb related to visual perception or appearance. In this context, "SEEM" fits the clue as it refers to the perception or appearance of something, indicating how it appears to be or how it appears to someone.
English version of 61-Down
Answer: JOHN
In this case, "61-Down" refers to another entry in the crossword puzzle, which likely has a non-English name. The clue is asking for the English version of the name found at 61-Down. Since the answer is "JOHN," it suggests that the name at 61-Down is likely a translation or variation of "John" in another language. "John" is a common English name, so it fits the criteria of being the English version of a name found elsewhere in the puzzle.
Copy command on a PC
Answer: CTRLC
One common keyboard shortcut for copying is "Ctrl+C" (Control + C). This combination tells the computer to copy the selected content to the clipboard. In the context of the crossword clue, "Copy command on a PC" suggests a specific keyboard shortcut or command used for copying on a PC. Since "Ctrl+C" is a well-known and widely used shortcut for copying, it fits the description perfectly. Therefore, the answer to the clue is "CTRLC," representing the "Ctrl+C" command for copying on a PC.
Steep banks
Answer: BLUFFS
"Steep banks" suggests that we are looking for a term that describes high, vertical, or sharply sloping landforms, typically found along bodies of water like rivers or oceans. The answer "BLUFFS" fits this description, as bluffs are geological formations characterized by steep or vertical cliffs.
Unimpressive, attendance-wise
Answer: SPARSE
The term "sparse" means thinly scattered or thinly populated, indicating a small or insufficient number of attendees. Therefore, "SPARSE" fits the clue "Unimpressive, attendance-wise," suggesting that the attendance at the event or place is lacking or below expectations.
Put up with
Answer: ABIDE
"Put up with" suggests enduring or tolerating something, even if it may be difficult or unpleasant. In this context, "ABIDE" fits the clue as it means to accept or tolerate something, often with patience or resignation. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "Put up with" is "ABIDE," as it accurately describes the action of enduring or tolerating a situation or circumstance.
Skin care product
Answer: TONER
"Skin care product" implies a type of cosmetic product utilized for skincare purposes. In the context of skincare, a "TONER" is a common product used to cleanse and refresh the skin after washing. Toners help to remove any remaining traces of dirt, oil, or makeup, and they can also balance the skin's pH levels.
Smith or Jones, on occasion
Answer: ALIAS
An "alias" is an alternative name or identity that a person may use, often for various reasons such as privacy, security, or disguise. When someone uses a different name from their given or legal name, it is referred to as an alias. In the context of the clue, "Smith or Jones, on occasion" suggests that individuals with common surnames may use aliases at times. Therefore, "ALIAS" fits the clue.
Contemplate
Answer: MULL
The clue "Contemplate" suggests a verb related to deep thought or consideration. "MULL" fits this description as it means to think deeply or consider something carefully and at length. When someone is mulling over a decision or idea, they are engaging in contemplation or reflection. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue "Contemplate" is "MULL," as it accurately represents the act of pondering or considering something deeply.
Down
Answer: BLUE
"Down" indicates that the answer should be read vertically. In this case, the word "BLUE" is the answer to the clue. Therefore, when solving the puzzle, you would look for a vertical column where the letters B, L, U, and E would form a word or phrase when read from top to bottom. The clue "Down" simply directs the solver to read the answer vertically instead of horizontally, helping to navigate the puzzle grid effectively.
Future doc’s exam
Answer: MCAT
The clue "Future doc’s exam" suggests that we are looking for an abbreviation that represents an examination typically taken by individuals aspiring to become doctors in the future. The answer "MCAT" fits this description as it stands for the Medical College Admission Test, which is a standardized test required for admission to medical schools in the United States and Canada.
Brand of shoes and handbags
Answer: ALDO
The clue succinctly describes the brand's product offerings, indicating that it produces both shoes and handbags. Therefore, the answer to the clue "Brand of shoes and handbags" is "ALDO," a recognizable brand name in the fashion industry known for its stylish shoes and accessories.
Irish version of 40-Down
Answer: SEAN
In this case, "40-Down" refers to another entry in the crossword puzzle, likely with a name or term. The clue is asking for the Irish version of the name or term found at 40-Down. Since the answer is "SEAN," it suggests that the name or term at 40-Down is an Irish name or term that translates to "Sean" in English.
Option words
Answer: ORS
The clue "Option words" suggests that the answer should be a brief term related to options or choices. "ORS" fits this description as it is a common abbreviation for "options" or "alternatives." In various contexts, such as multiple-choice questions or decision-making scenarios, "ORS" can represent the available choices or options.
Played first after the deal
Answer: LED
"Played first after the deal" refers to the player who makes the first move or plays the first card after the cards have been dealt. The term "LED" fits this description as it denotes the action of leading or playing the first card in a trick-taking game.
