Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 1 January 2025, Wednesday. Find all answers and solutions here.
We've also tries to explain why the answer is the correct solution for each clue.
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Clues and answers
Clues followed by answers and an explanation underneath.
88 Earth days on Mercury : YEAR
The answer "YEAR" refers to the length of time it takes for Mercury to complete one orbit around the sun, which is approximately 88 Earth days.
Acr. from : OPP
"Acronym from" is a common abbreviation for "acronym". In this case, "OPP" is the acronym for "Ontario Provincial Police", making it the right answer.
Actor Mahershala : ALI
The answer "ALI" fits the clue "Actor Mahershala" because Mahershala Ali is a well-known actor in Hollywood.
Alpaca kin : LLAMA
The answer "LLAMA" fits the clue "Alpaca kin" because llamas and alpacas are both members of the camel family and are closely related.
Anna’s “Frozen” sister : ELSA
"Anna's 'Frozen' sister" refers to the character in the Disney movie "Frozen" who is Anna's sister. The correct answer is "ELSA" because Elsa is Anna's sister in the movie.
Bamboozles : DUPES
"CONS" is the right solution because "bamboozles" is a synonym for deceives or tricks, which are actions commonly associated with the term "cons," short for "confidence tricks."
Bamboozles : DUPES
"DUPES" is the right solution because "bamboozles" is a synonym for "dupes," meaning to deceive or trick someone.
Big Broadway hit : SMASH
"SMASH" is the right answer because it refers to a big success or hit, and on Broadway, a successful show is often described as a "smash."
Bogus deal : SCAM
The word "SCAM" means a fraudulent scheme or swindle, which fits the clue "Bogus deal" as a scam is a dishonest or deceitful transaction.
Branch of Islam : SHIA
"SHIA" is the right answer because it is a branch of Islam that believes Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, should have succeeded him as the leader of the Muslim community.
Branch of Islam : SHIA
The branch of Islam known as Shia emphasizes the leadership of Ali, the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad. This distinguishes it from the Sunni branch, which follows the traditional line of succession. "SHIA" fits the clue because it specifically refers to this branch of Islam.
Busy IRS mo. : APR
The answer "APR" stands for "April," which is a busy month for the IRS due to tax season.
Cargo weight : TON
The unit of weight "TON" is commonly used to measure cargo weight, making it the right solution for the clue.
Come off as : SEEM Down 1 Much of Switzerland
The word "SEEM" can be used to indicate how something appears or is perceived by others, which fits the clue "Come off as" well.
Cry of pain : OUCH!
The answer "YEOW!" is the right solution for the clue "Cry of pain" because it is an onomatopoeic representation of a sudden, sharp, and intense expression of pain.
Cry of pain : OUCH!
The answer "OUCH!" is a common exclamation used to express pain or discomfort, making it a fitting solution for the clue "Cry of pain."
Everyone : ALL
The word "ALL" is a synonym for "everyone," meaning every person or everything without exception.
Everyone : ALL
The word "ALL" is a synonym for "everyone," meaning it refers to every person or everything without exception.
Fine dishes : CHINA
"Fine dishes" is a clue that is referring to high-quality dinnerware, which is commonly made of porcelain or ceramic material. China is a type of fine dinnerware that is known for its elegance and quality, making it a fitting answer to this clue.
Ford Mustang, for one : MUSCLE CAR
The Ford Mustang is a classic example of a muscle car, known for its powerful engine and performance. So, the answer "MUSCLE CAR" fits the clue "Ford Mustang, for one" perfectly.
Former French president Jacques : CHIRAC
Jacques Chirac was a former French president, serving from 1995 to 2007. Therefore, "CHIRAC" is the correct answer to the clue "Former French president Jacques."
Former French president Jacques : CHIRAC
Jacques Chirac was a former French president, serving from 1995 to 2007. The answer "CHIRAC" fits the clue "Former French president Jacques" because it matches the name of the specific individual being referred to.
Gardener’s purchase : SOIL
The answer "SOIL" fits the clue "Gardener's purchase" because soil is something that a gardener would buy to plant and nurture plants in a garden.
Gelcap, e.g. : PILL
The answer "PILL" fits the clue "Gelcap, e.g." because a gelcap is a type of pill that contains medication or supplements enclosed in a gelatin shell.
Girl : LASS
"LASS" is a term often used to refer to a young girl or woman, especially in Scottish or Northern English dialects. It is a common crossword answer for the clue "Girl" due to its widely recognized meaning in English language.
Glistens : SHINES
"Shines" is the right answer because it is a synonym for "glistens," meaning to reflect light brightly or to sparkle.
Haphazard pile : HEAP
The word "heap" means a haphazard pile of things, making it the right solution for the clue "Haphazard pile."
Hard wear with links : CHAIN MAIL
The clue "Hard wear with links" is a clever way of hinting at "CHAIN MAIL" because chain mail is a type of armor made of small metal rings linked together.
Head-slapping cry : D’OH!
The answer "D’OH!" is the right solution because it is a common exclamation famously used by Homer Simpson in the TV show "The Simpsons" when he makes a mistake or does something foolish.
High chair garb : BIB
The answer "BIB" fits the clue "High chair garb" because a bib is a piece of clothing worn by babies or young children to protect their clothes while eating, making it a common item to see on a high chair.
Hourly charge : RATE
The term "rate" is commonly used to refer to the amount charged per hour for a service or work done. So, "hourly charge" is synonymous with "rate."
Hullabaloo : HOO-HA
The word "hullabaloo" means a noisy commotion or uproar. "HOOPLA" is a synonym for hullabaloo, as it also refers to a noisy and excited activity or event. Therefore, "HOOPLA" is the right solution for the clue.
Hullabaloo : HOO-HA
"DIN" is the right solution because "hullabaloo" is a synonym for a loud and noisy commotion, which can be described as a din.
Hullabaloo : HOO-HA
"FUROR" is the right solution for "Hullabaloo" because "furor" means a public uproar or commotion, which is synonymous with hullabaloo.
Hullabaloo : HOO-HA
The term "HOO-HA" is often used to describe a commotion or uproar, which is synonymous with "Hullabaloo." The answer fits the clue in terms of meaning and length.
Inundated (with) : AWASH
The word "awash" means flooded or overwhelmed, which fits the definition of being inundated with something.
Jacuzzi feature : JET
The answer "JET" fits the clue "Jacuzzi feature" because jets are the water outlets in a Jacuzzi that create bubbles and provide a massaging effect.
Jay, Kay, and May, say : RHYMES
The clue is asking for words that rhyme with "Jay, Kay, and May." The answer "RHYMES" fits the clue because it is a word that rhymes with those names.
Like a literary duckling : UGLY
The answer "UGLY" fits the clue "Like a literary duckling" because in the classic story "The Ugly Duckling" by Hans Christian Andersen, the duckling is initially considered ugly before transforming into a beautiful swan.
Lovers’ vows : I DOS
"I DOS" is the right solution because it refers to the vows exchanged by a couple during a wedding ceremony, where they each say "I do" to signify their commitment to each other.
Magic competition hosted by Penn & Teller : FOOL US
The answer "FOOL US" fits because "Fool Us" is the title of the magic competition show hosted by Penn & Teller.
Mexican peninsula, informally : BAJA
"Baja" is the right answer because it is a common informal term used to refer to the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico.
Mrs. in Mexico : SRA
"SRA" is the abbreviation for "Señora" in Spanish, which translates to "Mrs." in English. Therefore, "SRA" is the correct answer for "Mrs. in Mexico" in a crossword puzzle.
Mythical cousin of Bigfoot : YETI
The mythical cousin of Bigfoot is often associated with the Himalayas, and the most famous creature fitting this description is the Yeti.
New staff members : HIREES
The term "HIREES" refers to new staff members who have been hired by a company or organization. It is a common term used to describe individuals who have recently joined a workforce.
Noisy summer bug : CICADA
"CICADA" is the right answer because cicadas are known for their loud buzzing or clicking noises during the summer months.
Occasion to stay up late : SLUMBER PARTY
The answer "SLUMBER PARTY" fits the clue because it is an occasion where people, usually children, stay up late together to have fun and sleepover at someone's house.
Off-white shade : OPAL
"Cream" is an off-white shade that is lighter than beige and has a slight yellow tint. It is a commonly used color in interior design and fashion, which makes it a fitting answer for the given clue.
Off-white shade : OPAL
"Ivory" is an off-white shade that is often used to describe a creamy white color. It fits the clue well.
Off-white shade : OPAL
Olympian’s weapon : EPEE
The epee is a type of sword used in the sport of fencing, which is commonly associated with the Olympics. Therefore, "Olympian's weapon" refers to the epee.
Olympian’s weapon : EPEE
The epee is a weapon used in Olympic fencing competitions, making it the correct answer for "Olympian’s weapon."
Opening day pitcher, typically : ACE
The term "ace" in baseball refers to the team's top starting pitcher who is often chosen to pitch on the opening day of the season due to their skill and reliability.
People person? : STAR
"STAR" is the right solution because in this crossword clue, "People person" is a play on words where "people" refers to a group of individuals and "person" refers to a famous individual. A star is a famous person, making it the correct answer.
Playroom detritus : KIDS’ TOYS
The answer "KIDS' TOYS" fits the clue "Playroom detritus" because toys are commonly found in a playroom and are often left scattered around, making them detritus or scattered remains in that space.
Playroom detritus : KIDS’ TOYS
The answer "TOYS" fits the clue "Playroom detritus" because toys are commonly found scattered or left behind in a playroom.
Poet Sharon : OLDS
"OLDS" is the answer to "Poet Sharon" because Sharon Olds is a well-known American poet, and "OLDS" is a common way to refer to her in crossword puzzles.
Post-marathon feelings : ACHES
The answer "ACHES" fits the clue "Post-marathon feelings" because after running a marathon, it is common to experience muscle aches and soreness due to the physical exertion of the race.
Protein source in Greek salad : FETA
FETA is the right answer because it is a type of cheese made from sheep's milk or a mixture of sheep and goat's milk, commonly found in Greek salad.
Purple fruit : PLUM
"PLUM" is the right solution for "Purple fruit" because plums are a type of fruit that can be purple in color.
RBG employer in the 1970s : ACLU
The American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) was Ruth Bader Ginsburg's employer in the 1970s, making it the correct answer to the clue.
Reno venue : CASINO
The answer "CASINO" fits the clue "Reno venue" because Reno, Nevada is known for its many casinos, making it a common venue in the city.
Ricky Martin’s “Livin’ la Vida __” : LOCA
The answer "LOCA" fits because the phrase "Livin' la Vida Loca" is a popular song by Ricky Martin, making "LOCA" the correct completion for the clue.
Rodeo rope : RIATA
The answer "LASSO" is the right solution because it is a type of rope commonly used in rodeos to catch and restrain livestock.
Rodeo rope : RIATA
The word "RIATA" is a synonym for a lasso or a lariat, which is a type of rope used in rodeos for catching livestock.
Rough sailing, and what can be found in the answers to the starred clues : CHOPPY WATERS
The phrase "CHOPPY WATERS" is a common idiom that means facing difficulties or challenges, which fits the clue "Rough sailing." Additionally, the answers to the starred clues likely contain words related to water or sailing, further supporting the theme of "CHOPPY WATERS."
Sandwich bread : RYE
Rye is a type of bread commonly used for making sandwiches, known for its slightly tangy flavor and dense texture. It is a popular choice for deli-style sandwiches like pastrami or corned beef.
Second Greek letter : BETA
"BETA" is the second letter of the Greek alphabet, making it the correct answer to the clue "Second Greek letter."
Sense of self : EGO
The term "ego" refers to a person's sense of self-esteem or self-importance, which fits the clue "sense of self."
Sense of self : EGO
The term "ego" refers to a person's sense of self, their self-esteem, and their self-importance. In psychology, the ego is one of the three parts of the mind, according to Freud's structural model, that mediates between the primitive impulses of the id and the demands of reality.
Sense of self : EGO
The term "ego" refers to a person's sense of self, identity, or self-esteem. In psychology, the ego is part of the mind that mediates between the conscious and unconscious and is responsible for reality testing and a sense of personal identity.
Serena’s frenemy on “Gossip Girl” : BLAIR
Blair is Serena's frenemy on the TV show "Gossip Girl." They have a complex and competitive relationship throughout the series, making Blair the correct answer to the clue.
Smurf with a white beard : PAPA
The Smurf character with a white beard is the leader of the Smurfs and is called "Papa Smurf." Therefore, the answer to the clue is "PAPA."
South Carolina’s state tree : PALMETTO
The Palmetto tree is the state tree of South Carolina, making "PALMETTO" the correct answer to the clue.
Spy : MOLE
The answer "MOLE" is correct because a mole is a type of spy who works undercover within an organization to gather information.
Storyteller __ Christian Andersen : HANS
The clue mentions "Storyteller" and "Christian Andersen," which refers to the famous Danish author Hans Christian Andersen. Therefore, the answer is "HANS."
Storyteller __ Christian Andersen : HANS
HANS is the right answer because it is the first name of the famous storyteller Hans Christian Andersen.
Svelte : SLIM
The word "svelte" means slender or slim, and the word "thin" is a synonym for slender or slim. Therefore, "thin" is the right solution for the clue "svelte."
Svelte : SLIM
"SLIM" is the right solution because it is a synonym for "svelte," which means slender or graceful in figure.
Syllables said while rubbing one’s tummy : YUM-YUM
The answer "YUM-YUM" is the right solution because it represents the sound one might make when expressing enjoyment or satisfaction while rubbing their tummy, as in enjoying delicious food.
Team whose stadium is at the highest elevation in the majors : COLORADO ROCKIES
The Colorado Rockies play at Coors Field in Denver, Colorado, which has the highest elevation of any major league baseball stadium.
Tracts of land : ACRES
The term "acres" is commonly used to refer to large areas of land, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Tracts of land."
Treated, as a sprain : ICED
"Iced" is the right answer because one common way to treat a sprain is by applying ice to reduce swelling and pain.
Wall St. debuts : IPOS
The answer "IPOS" stands for Initial Public Offerings, which are when a company first sells its stock to the public on Wall Street.
Wall St. debuts : IPOS
"IPOS" stands for Initial Public Offerings, which are when a company's stock is offered to the public for the first time on Wall Street.
Where the heart is : CHEST
The clue is asking for a body part where the heart is located, which is the torso. The torso is the main part of the body where the heart is situated.
Where the heart is : CHEST
The heart is located in the chest cavity of the body, making "CHEST" the correct answer.
“Bad Guy” singer Billie : EILISH
The answer is "EILISH" because Billie Eilish is the singer known for the song "Bad Guy."
“Hurry!” letters : ASAP!
The answer "ASAP" stands for "As Soon As Possible," which is commonly used to indicate urgency or a need for prompt action.
“My gosh, you’re right!” : SO IT IS!
The phrase "SO IT IS!" is a common expression used to convey agreement or realization. In this context, it is a fitting response to someone acknowledging the correctness of a statement or observation.
“Smooth Operator” singer : SADE
SADE is the name of the singer known for the song "Smooth Operator."
“Smooth Operator” singer : SADE
SADE is the name of the singer known for the song "Smooth Operator."
“Well, __-di-dah!” : LAH
The phrase "Well, lah-di-dah" is an expression of sarcasm or disdain towards someone who is acting pretentious or snobbish. "Lah" is a shortened version of this phrase and is used as an interjection to convey the same sentiment.
“Well, __-di-dah!” : LAH
The phrase "Well, __-di-dah!" is a common expression where the missing word is "lah." It is often used to convey a sense of nonchalance or indifference.
“What’s up, __?” : DOC
In this context, "What's up, __?" is a casual greeting commonly associated with the character Bugs Bunny from Looney Tunes, who often says "What's up, Doc?" to greet others. So, the answer "DOC" fits perfectly as it completes the familiar phrase.
“¿Cómo __ usted?” : ESTA
The clue is in Spanish and asks "How are you?" The answer to this question in Spanish is "Está" which means "you are" or "you're doing" in English. However, since the crossword is in the second person, the correct form of the verb is "Está" which becomes "EstáS" when you add the subject pronoun "usted" which means "you" in English. Therefore, the correct answer is "ESTAS".
“¿Cómo __ usted?” : ESTA
The answer "ESTA" fits the clue "¿Cómo __ usted?" because "ESTA" is the Spanish word for "are you."
“¿Cómo __ usted?” : ESTA
The answer "ESTA" fits the clue because it is the correct form of the verb "estar" in Spanish to match the formal question "¿Cómo está usted?" which means "How are you?" in English.