NYT Crossword Clues and Answers for April 16, 2024
by Abisha
Updated Apr 16, 2024
NYT Crossword
In this NYT crossword, you should give it a try to find the words since it often helps to understand the strategy behind every puzzle. Solving crossword puzzles often helps to improve your skill level and also gives you knowledge of approaching problems.
Initially, it feels like losing on the first try itself leads to giving up. But after many attempts, you can complete this crossword, which further takes you to the next level. Anyhow, we have included the answers for this crossword for easy understanding.
Make extremely happy
Answer: ELATE
This clue asks for a term that means to fill someone with great joy or happiness. When you "make extremely happy," you ELATE them, lifting their spirits to a heightened level of joy and satisfaction.
Planets, poetically
Answer: ORBS
In poetic language, celestial bodies such as planets are often referred to as ORBS due to their spherical shape. The term "orbs" evokes imagery of round, luminous objects floating in the vast expanse of space.
___ czar, N.Y.C. government position whose job listing called for “a virulent vehemence for vermin”
Answer: RAT
This clue directs us to fill in the blank with a term indicating a position within the New York City government. The job listing described in the clue emphasizes the need for someone with a strong and aggressive attitude towards dealing with pests, particularly rodents. The term that fits here is RAT, commonly used to refer to someone who is responsible for controlling and eliminating rats and other vermin in urban areas
Historical object
Answer: RELIC
When referring to an object from the past, particularly one that holds significance or value due to its historical context, we use the term RELIC. These artifacts serve as tangible reminders of bygone eras, offering insights into the lives and cultures of those who came before us.
Watery, as tea
Answer: WEAK
In the context of tea, when it lacks strength or intensity due to dilution with too much water, we describe it as WEAK. This term contrasts with "strong" tea, which has a more robust flavor and aroma due to a higher concentration of tea leaves relative to water
A spare one might be kept in the boot
Answer: TYRE
This clue hints at an object commonly stored in the "boot" of a car, which is the British term for the storage compartment also known as the trunk in American English. The item referred to here is a TYRE, which is typically kept as a spare in case of a flat tire while driving.
*Actor who played Oscar Wilde in “Wilde” [fish]
Answer: STEPHENFRY
This clue provides two distinct hints: first, it mentions an actor who portrayed Oscar Wilde in the film "Wilde," and second, it includes the word "fish" in square brackets, suggesting a wordplay or pun. The answer, STEPHENFRY, fits both criteria. Stephen Fry is an actor known for his portrayal of Oscar Wilde in the movie "Wilde," and the word "fry" also refers to a cooking method commonly used for fish.
Word before date or dance
Answer: RAIN
This clue directs us to find a word that can precede both "date" and "dance." The answer is RAIN, as it can precede both "rain date" (an alternate date planned in case of inclement weather) and "rain dance" (a ceremonial dance performed to invoke rain).
Discard
Answer: TOSS
When you discard something by throwing it away casually or without much consideration, you TOSS it. This term implies a quick, effortless action of getting rid of something.
Journalists’ credits
Answer: BYLINES
In journalism, the BYLINE is the line at the beginning or end of an article that identifies the author or authors. It serves as a form of credit, attributing the work to the journalist(s) responsible for its content
Bit of Tex-Mex bar food
Answer: TACO
This clue refers to a type of food commonly found in Tex-Mex cuisine and often served in bars. A TACO fits this description perfectly, as it is a popular dish consisting of a folded or rolled tortilla filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, vegetables, and salsa.
Starting point for a record-setting swim in 2023’s “Nyad”
Answer: CUBA
In 2023, endurance swimmer Diana Nyad set a record by swimming from CUBA to Florida without the aid of a shark cage. This clue highlights the starting point of her historic swim, which launched from the shores of Cuba.
One under a birdie
Answer: EAGLE
In golf, achieving a score of one under par on a hole is referred to as an EAGLE. This term indicates that the player completed the hole in fewer strokes than the predetermined standard, making it a particularly noteworthy accomplishment.
Pigment used in the Lascaux cave paintings
Answer: OCHER
The Lascaux cave paintings, dating back thousands of years, were created using various natural pigments. One such pigment prominently used in these ancient artworks is OCHER, a type of earthy pigment ranging in color from yellow to reddish-brown, which was commonly sourced from minerals found in the earth.
High-pitched flute
Answer: PICCOLO
A PICCOLO is a musical instrument belonging to the woodwind family and is known for its small size and high pitch. It produces a bright and piercing sound, making it distinctive from other flutes. This clue accurately describes the instrument known for its shrill and penetrating tones.
New, waxing, waning, full, etc.
Answer: PHASES
This clue describes different stages or states of something, particularly in reference to the changing appearance of the moon. The answer, PHASES, encompasses these various stages, indicating transitions or different aspects of a cycle.
Sticky stuff
Answer: GOO
When referring to a viscous or adhesive substance, we often use the term GOO. This colloquial term encompasses a wide range of sticky materials, from glue-like adhesives to thick, sticky liquids.
Frequently phished figs.
Answer: SSNS
In this clue, "phished" hints at a cybersecurity term related to fraudulent attempts to obtain sensitive information, often through deceptive emails or websites. The abbreviation SSNS stands for "Social Security Numbers," which are frequently targeted by phishing scams due to their value for identity theft.
___ vs. para (Spanish 101 topic)
Answer: POR
This clue alludes to a topic commonly covered in introductory Spanish courses, which is the distinction between the prepositions "___" and "para." The answer, POR, is one of these prepositions, commonly used to indicate various meanings such as "by," "through," "for," or "on behalf of" in Spanish.
Certain immature adult … with a hint to both halves of the answers to each starred clue
Answer: MANBABY
This clue introduces a term describing an individual who displays characteristics of both a grown man and an infant, suggesting immaturity or a lack of responsibility. Additionally, the term serves as a hint to the theme of the crossword, which involves answers that consist of two words, each related to the concept of immaturity or infancy: "MAN" representing adulthood and "BABY" representing infancy.
Auction bundle
Answer: LOT
In an auction, items are often grouped together and sold as a single unit or LOT. This term refers to a collection of items that are auctioned off together, allowing bidders to acquire multiple items at once
Worn-down part of a shoe
Answer: SOLE
The SOLE of a shoe refers to the bottom part that makes contact with the ground. Over time, the sole of a shoe can become worn down through use, especially in areas where friction is most prominent, such as the heel or ball of the foot.
Japan’s national fish
Answer: KOI
The KOI fish holds special significance in Japanese culture and is often regarded as Japan's national fish. Known for their vibrant colors and graceful swimming patterns, Koi are highly prized and symbolize qualities such as strength, perseverance, and good fortune.
Risky choice of surfing apparel
Answer: BIKINI
Surfing in a BIKINI can be considered a risky choice of apparel due to the potential exposure to rough waves, strong currents, and other hazards present in the ocean. While bikinis are commonly worn for sunbathing and recreational swimming, they may not provide adequate coverage or protection for the physical demands of surfing.
Makes (oneself) beloved
Answer: ENDEARS
To ENDEAR oneself to others is to make oneself beloved or endearing. This term describes the action of winning affection or favor from others through one's words, actions, or demeanor.
San Fran athlete
Answer: NINER
In this clue, "San Fran" is a colloquial abbreviation for San Francisco, a city known for its professional sports teams. The NINER refers specifically to an athlete or player associated with the San Francisco 49ers, a professional football team in the National Football League (NFL).
___ Rica
Answer: COSTA
This clue prompts us to fill in the blank with a word that completes the name of a country. The answer is COSTA, which, when combined with the blank, forms the name of the country COSTA Rica.
Many a flat-screen
Answer: HDTV
The term HDTV stands for High-Definition Television, which describes the type of flat-screen television that offers superior picture quality compared to standard-definition TVs. This clue highlights that a significant portion of flat-screen televisions are HDTVs.
Pepper and O’Leary of classic rock: Abbr.
Answer: SGTS
In this clue, "Pepper and O'Leary" are likely referring to members of a classic rock band, and "Abbr." indicates that their names will be abbreviated. The answer is SGTS, which stands for "Sergeants." This abbreviation is commonly used to refer to the members of the iconic rock band The Beatles: George Harrison ("Pepper") and Ringo Starr ("O'Leary"), who were both given the honorary title of Sergeant when they were awarded MBEs (Members of the Order of the British Empire) in 1965.
Immobilizers for bone fractures
Answer: SPLINTS
SPLINTS are medical devices used to immobilize and support injured limbs or bones, particularly in cases of fractures. They help stabilize the injured area, preventing further damage and promoting proper healing.
Pokes fun at
Answer: RIBS
When someone "pokes fun at" someone else, they are engaging in light-hearted teasing or joking at their expense. The term RIBS here is used metaphorically to represent the playful banter or teasing that occurs when someone makes fun of another person in a friendly manner.
Fuel from a bog
Answer: PEAT
This clue directs us to identify a type of fuel that is derived from decaying organic matter found in boggy areas. The answer is PEAT, which is a type of partially decayed plant material that is often used as fuel, especially in regions where it is abundant.
*Inventor who patented the first revolver [stallion]
Answer: SAMUELCOLT
The clue provides two hints: first, it mentions an inventor who patented the first revolver, and second, it includes the word "stallion" in square brackets, suggesting a wordplay or pun. The answer, SAMUELCOLT, fits both criteria. Samuel Colt was the inventor credited with patenting the first practical revolver, and "Colt" also refers to a type of horse, specifically a STALLION, which is a male horse kept for breeding
Group of ants
Answer: ARMY
When referring to a collective group of ants, we commonly use the term ARMY. This term emphasizes the organized and coordinated behavior of ants when they work together in large numbers, similar to the structured movements of a military unit.
Where a teen may wear a tux
Answer: PROM
The clue hints at a special event where teenagers often have the opportunity to dress formally, specifically mentioning the attire of a tuxedo. The answer is PROM, which is a formal dance or gathering typically held near the end of high school. Teens attending prom often dress in elegant attire, including tuxedos for boys and formal dresses for girls, making it a fitting occasion for wearing a tuxedo.
Mammal with a miniature trunk
Answer: TAPIR
This clue describes a mammal that possesses a snout-like structure resembling a miniature trunk. The answer is TAPIR, a large, herbivorous mammal found in Central and South America, as well as in parts of Asia. Tapirs have elongated noses that somewhat resemble trunks, although they are much shorter compared to those of elephants.
Snatch
Answer: NAB
When someone "snatches" something, they quickly and forcibly take it away. The word NAB fits this description, as it is often used to describe the action of seizing or grabbing something swiftly, especially if it is done in a sudden or sneaky manner.
Hits the slopes
Answer: SKIS
This clue suggests an activity that involves gliding or sliding down snow-covered hills or mountains. The answer is SKIS, which are long, narrow pieces of equipment worn on the feet for skiing. Skiers use skis to navigate snowy terrain and descend slopes, enjoying the exhilarating sport of skiing.
Exact godly vengeance on
Answer: SMITE
When someone "smites" another, they deliver a powerful blow or inflict punishment, often with a sense of divine justice or retribution. The term SMITE is commonly associated with divine punishment or vengeance in religious contexts, suggesting the infliction of severe consequences or divine wrath upon the target.
Hosp. areas
Answer: ERS
In this clue, "Hosp." is an abbreviation for hospital, and "areas" suggests specific sections within a hospital. The answer is ERS, which stands for emergency rooms, commonly abbreviated as ERs. These are areas within hospitals where patients requiring immediate medical attention are treated.
Rent out
Answer: LET
When someone "rents out" a property, they allow another party to use it in exchange for payment. The word LET fits this description, as it signifies the action of granting temporary possession or use of a property to someone else in return for rent
Drink aptly found in “medieval era”
Answer: ALE
This clue provides a hint about a type of beverage that is fittingly associated with the historical period known as the "medieval era." The answer is ALE, which is a type of alcoholic beverage made from fermented malt, commonly consumed during medieval times and continuing to be popular in modern times as well.
Treads lightly
Answer: TIPTOES
When someone "treads lightly," they walk quietly and carefully, often on the balls of their feet, in order to avoid making noise or disturbing others. The term TIPTOES describes this action, as it involves walking with the body weight primarily on the toes, allowing for silent and cautious movement.
Bounce off the walls, say
Answer: ECHO
This clue suggests a situation where sound waves rebound off surfaces, creating a repetition of the original sound. The word ECHO describes this phenomenon, where sound reflects off walls or other surfaces, resulting in a repeated or amplified sound
Comes clean
Answer: OWNSUP
When someone "comes clean," they admit to or confess something, especially if it involves revealing the truth about a situation or wrongdoing. The phrase OWNSUP reflects this action of taking responsibility for one's actions or decisions by acknowledging them openly and honestly.
Stadium whistle-blower
Answer: REF
In sports, particularly in games like soccer, basketball, and American football, a REF (short for referee) is responsible for enforcing the rules of the game and making decisions on plays and fouls. This clue identifies the official who uses a whistle to signal stoppages, fouls, or other infractions during a game.
Beef option at Chipotle
Answer: BARBACOA
BARBACOA is a type of meat commonly offered as an option at Chipotle Mexican Grill, a popular fast-casual restaurant chain known for its customizable burritos, bowls, and tacos. Barbacoa typically refers to slow-cooked, seasoned beef, often associated with Mexican cuisine.
Vodka brand in a blue bottle
Answer: SKYY
The clue directs us to identify a specific brand of vodka known for being packaged in a blue-colored bottle. The answer is SKYY, a brand of vodka recognized for its distinctive blue bottle design. SKYY vodka is known for its smooth taste and is a popular choice among consumers.
*Mouseketeer peer of Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake [gander]
Answer: RYANGOSLING
Mouseketeer who shared the same era as Britney Spears and Justin Timberlake, and second, it includes the word "gander" in square brackets, suggesting a wordplay or pun. The answer, RYANGOSLING, fits both criteria. Ryan Gosling was indeed a fellow Mouseketeer alongside Spears and Timberlake on the television show "The Mickey Mouse Club," and "Gosling" also refers to a male goose, which is a GANDER.
“The Little Mermaid” mermaid
Answer: ARIEL
This clue refers to a character from the Disney animated film "The Little Mermaid." The answer is ARIEL, the protagonist of the movie who is a mermaid princess longing to experience life on land and falls in love with a human prince
Past, present or future
Answer: TENSE
The clue directs us to identify a grammatical term that categorizes verbs according to when the action they describe occurs. The answer is TENSE, which refers to the grammatical concept of expressing time in a verb, indicating whether the action took place in the past, present, or future.
Free ones might precede subscriptions
Answer: TRIALS
This clue suggests a common marketing strategy where potential customers are offered free access to a product or service for a limited time before committing to a subscription. The answer is TRIALS, which are free periods during which individuals can try out a product or service before deciding whether to subscribe or purchase.
Window-closing key
Answer: ESC
In computing, the ESC key is often used to perform various functions, including closing windows or exiting programs. This clue refers to the ESC key as a means of closing or escaping from a window or application on a computer.
Sign before Virgo
Answer: LEO
This clue refers to the zodiac sign that precedes Virgo in the astrological calendar. The answer is LEO, which is the zodiac sign that comes before Virgo. Leo is typically represented by the symbol of a lion and is associated with qualities such as courage, leadership, and strength
Big name in baseball cards
Answer: TOPPS
This clue suggests a well-known brand associated with the production of baseball cards. The answer is TOPPS, a major company in the sports trading card industry, particularly known for its baseball cards. Topps has been a prominent name in baseball card manufacturing for decades, producing cards featuring various players, teams, and special editions.
“Gesundheit” prompter
Answer: ACHOO
When someone sneezes, it is common in many cultures to say "Gesundheit" as a polite response, which means "health" in German. The answer is ACHOO, which represents the sound of a sneeze and is often humorously used to prompt the response of "Gesundheit" or to mimic the sound of sneezing
*English essayist who wrote “Lawyers, I suppose, were children once” [ram]
Answer: CHARLESLAMB
This clue provides two hints: first, it mentions an English essayist known for the quote "Lawyers, I suppose, were children once," and second, it includes the word "ram" in square brackets, suggesting a wordplay or pun. The answer, CHARLESLAMB, fits both criteria. Charles Lamb was indeed an English essayist famous for his wit and humor, and "Lamb" also refers to a young sheep, which is a RAM.
Resident of 123½ Sesame Street
Answer: BIGBIRD
This clue refers to a character from the television show "Sesame Street" who resides at the fictional address of 123½ Sesame Street. The answer is BIGBIRD, a beloved character on the show known for his large size, bright yellow feathers, and friendly demeanor
Sleep stage
Answer: REM
This clue refers to a specific stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movement (REM), during which most dreaming occurs. REM sleep is one of the several stages of sleep that individuals cycle through during the night, and it is associated with increased brain activity and vivid dreams.
Kind of salad that sounds like it should include corn
Answer: COBB
The clue hints at a type of salad that phonetically sounds like it should contain corn. The answer is COBB, which refers to the Cobb salad, a popular American salad typically made with chopped lettuce, tomatoes, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, avocado, cheese, and chicken or turkey. While the name "Cobb" doesn't directly imply the inclusion of corn, the similarity in sound to "cob" (as in corn on the cob) may lead one to expect corn to be an ingredient.
Fermented rice wine
Answer: SAKE
This clue describes a traditional Japanese alcoholic beverage made from fermented rice. The answer is SAKE, which is a type of rice wine commonly consumed in Japan and other parts of the world. Sake can vary in flavor and aroma depending on factors such as the type of rice used and the brewing process.
Quartet + quintet
Answer: NONET
The clue suggests combining a quartet (a group of four) with a quintet (a group of five) to arrive at a larger ensemble. The answer is NONET, which refers to a musical ensemble consisting of nine musicians. A nonet typically comprises instruments or voices arranged in various combinations to produce a rich and harmonious sound.
Starts to wake
Answer: STIRS
This clue suggests the beginning stages of waking up from sleep or becoming alert. The answer is STIRS, which describes the initial movements or signs of awakening, such as shifting in bed or opening one's eyes
Wild couples cruise?
Answer: NOAHSARK
This clue presents a playful interpretation of the biblical story of Noah's Ark, where "wild couples" can be understood as pairs of untamed animals. The answer, NOAHSARK, refers to the legendary vessel built by Noah to save pairs of animals and his family from a great flood, according to the Old Testament.
Yang’s partner
Answer: YIN
This clue refers to the concept of yin and yang, which is a fundamental principle in Chinese philosophy representing the dualistic nature of existence. YIN is the complementary counterpart to yang, symbolizing qualities such as darkness, passivity, and femininity, in contrast to yang's qualities of light, activity, and masculinity.
Being
Answer: ENTITY
The clue directs us to identify a term that refers to a discrete and independent existence or entity. The answer is ENTITY, which denotes a distinct and self-contained individual or object with its own identity and existence. In philosophy and ontology, an entity is anything that has its own existence, whether physical or abstract.
What might catch X’s at an O’s game?
Answer: KISSCAM
This clue refers to the tradition at sporting events, particularly baseball games, where a camera pans around the stadium, focusing on couples in the audience. When the camera lands on a couple, they are encouraged to kiss, and the moment is displayed on the stadium's video screen. This feature is commonly known as the KISSCAM, and it often elicits cheers and laughter from the crowd
N.F.L. coach Campbell
Answer: DAN
The clue directs us to identify a specific NFL coach with the last name CAMPBELL. The answer is DAN, which is a common first name but also happens to be the first name of several NFL coaches, including Dan Campbell, who served as the interim head coach for the Miami Dolphins and later became the head coach for the Detroit Lions.
Noodles on a guitar
Answer: STRUMS
This clue provides a playful interpretation of the word "noodles," which can mean playing around or improvising on a musical instrument, particularly a guitar. The term STRUMS refers to the action of running one's fingers across the strings of a guitar, producing chords or notes. In this context, "noodles" and "strums" both relate to the act of playing music on a guitar.
Network with “gavel-to-gavel” coverage
Answer: CSPAN
The clue describes a television network known for providing comprehensive coverage of government proceedings, often with a focus on political events and congressional sessions. The answer is CSPAN, which stands for Cable-Satellite Public Affairs Network. C-SPAN is renowned for its "gavel-to-gavel" coverage, offering uninterrupted broadcasts of legislative sessions, hearings, and other public affairs events.
Word in the title of Broadway’s longest-running show
Answer: OPERA
Broadway's longest-running show. The answer is OPERA, which refers to the genre of musical theater characterized by elaborate and dramatic performances featuring singing, orchestral music, and often intricate staging. The longest-running Broadway show with "Opera" in its title is likely "The Phantom of the OPERA," composed by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
Compete (for)
Answer: VIE
This clue indicates the action of striving or competing for something. The answer is VIE, which means to contend or compete eagerly with someone else for the same objective or prize. In this context, "VIE" signifies the competitive aspect of seeking to achieve or obtain something in a contest or rivalry.
Baker’s amts.
Answer: TSPS
This clue abbreviates a common measurement used in baking recipes. The answer is TSPS, an abbreviation for "teaspoons." Teaspoons are a standard unit of measurement used to quantify smaller amounts of ingredients, such as spices, flavorings, or leavening agents, in baking and cooking.
Crispy sammies
Answer: BLTS
This clue refers to a type of sandwich known for its crispy texture and ingredients. The answer is BLTS, which stands for "Bacon, Lettuce, and Tomato Sandwiches." BLTs are a classic sandwich consisting of crispy bacon, fresh lettuce, ripe tomatoes, and mayonnaise, typically served between two slices of toasted bread.
Miss Piggy, to Miss Piggy
Answer: MOI
Miss Piggy, a character from "The Muppets," to refer to herself. The answer is MOI, which is the French word for "me" or "myself." Miss Piggy, known for her diva personality and self-importance, often humorously refers to herself using the French term "moi" in a way that reflects her vanity and grandiosity.
Essie competitor
Answer: OPI
This clue refers to a competitor of the nail polish brand Essie. The answer is OPI, which is a well-known brand of nail polish that competes with Essie in the beauty and cosmetics market. OPI offers a wide range of nail polish colors and formulations, similar to Essie, and is popular among consumers and nail technicians alike.
Deserving of a fire emoji, as a party
Answer: LIT
This clue suggests that the party in question is highly enjoyable and exciting, to the point where it would warrant the use of a fire emoji to describe its intensity or excellence. The word LIT is often used informally to describe something that is exciting, energetic, or impressive, especially in the context of a lively social gathering or event.
III, in Rome
Answer: TRE
This clue provides the Roman numeral representation of the number three. The answer is TRE, which is the Roman numeral III. In Rome, as in many other places, Roman numerals are used for various purposes, including numbering, dating, and clock faces. In this case, "III" represents the numerical value of three.
