Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 26 January 2024, Friday. 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.
A few : SOME
The answer "SOME" is the right solution for the clue "A few" because "some" implies an unspecified quantity that is more than one but less than many. It fits the definition of a small number or a portion of something.
Accommodating places : INNS
The answer "INNS" is the right solution because inns are places that provide accommodations for travelers.
Ankle-length attire : MAXI
The answer "MAXI" is the right solution because it refers to a type of attire that extends down to the ankles. It is a commonly used term in fashion to describe long dresses or skirts that provide full coverage to the legs.
Apple since 1998 : IMAC
The answer to "Apple since 1998" is "iMac" because it is a popular line of desktop computers introduced by Apple in that year.
Branch : ARM
"Branch" is a word that can refer to a limb of a tree or a division of a company. Similarly, "arm" can be used to describe a limb of a body or a division of a military force. Therefore, "arm" is a suitable answer for "branch" in this crossword clue.
Branch : ARM
The answer to "Branch" is "ARM" because an arm can be considered a branch of the human body.
Cilantro, e.g. : HERB
The answer to "Cilantro, e.g." is "HERB" because cilantro is a type of herb.
Comes down hard? : SLEETS
The word "hails" can mean to rain down forcefully, which fits the clue "comes down hard."
Comes down hard? : SLEETS
The answer "SLEETS" is the right solution because "comes down hard" is a clue for a type of precipitation that falls as a mixture of rain and ice pellets. This is commonly known as sleet.
Cookie with a Java Chip flavor : OREO
The answer to "Cookie with a Java Chip flavor" is "OREO" because OREO is a popular brand of cookie that offers a Java Chip flavor among its varieties.
Curling spot : RINK
The answer to "Curling spot" is "RINK" because curling is typically played on a large, flat surface called a rink.
Dances provocatively : TWERKS
The answer "TWERKS" is the right solution because it refers to a type of dance movement that involves provocative and suggestive hip movements.
Divisions in an outdated atlas : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." stands for abbreviation, which indicates that the clue is looking for a shortened or abbreviated term. In this case, "Divisions in an outdated atlas" refers to the divisions or sections within an old atlas, which are commonly abbreviated. Therefore, "Abbr." is the correct solution.
Donkey : ASS
The word "ass" is a synonym for "donkey."
Donkey : ASS
The answer to "Donkey" is "ASS" because it is a common four-letter word that is often used to refer to a donkey in crossword puzzles.
Emergency priority system : TRIAGE
The answer to "Emergency priority system" is "TRIAGE" because triage is the process of determining the priority of patients' treatments based on the severity of their condition. It helps medical professionals allocate resources efficiently during emergencies.
EMIT? : TURN BACK “TIME”
Esoteric information : ARCANA
The word "arcana" refers to secret or mysterious knowledge that is known only to a select few. It perfectly fits the clue "esoteric information" as it implies hidden or specialized knowledge.
Exxon constituents? : EXES Down 1 Bagel topping
The answer to "Exxon constituents?" is "EXES" because the word "constituents" suggests that we are looking for something that makes up or is part of Exxon. In this case, "EXES" refers to former partners or spouses, which are considered to be part of someone's past. Therefore, "EXES" is the correct answer.
Feudal estate : FIEF
The answer to "Feudal estate" is "FIEF" because a fief is a piece of land given by a lord to a vassal in exchange for loyalty and service. It was a common practice during feudal times.
Five-time Olympic gold-medal swimmer Ian : THORPE
The answer is "THORPE" because Ian Thorpe is a five-time Olympic gold-medal swimmer.
Flatten : LEVEL
The word "flatten" is a verb that means to make something flat. A pancake is a type of flat cake that is made by flattening batter and cooking it on a griddle or frying pan. Therefore, "pancake" is a suitable answer for the clue "flatten."
Flatten : LEVEL
The word "level" can mean to make something flat or even. Therefore, "level" is the right answer to the clue "flatten."
Friendly horn sounds : TOOTS
The answer "TOOTS" is the right solution because it is a term often used to describe friendly horn sounds.
Go green, perhaps : DYE
"Go green" is a phrase that can mean to decompose or decay, which is what happens to organic matter when it rots. Therefore, "ROT" is the right answer to this clue.
Go green, perhaps : DYE
The answer to "Go green, perhaps" is "DYE" because when you dye something, you change its color. In this case, "go green" means to change the color to green.
Harmonious church groups : CHOIRS
The answer "CHOIRS" fits the clue "Harmonious church groups" because choirs are groups of singers who perform together in harmony, often in a church setting.
Heavy weights : TONS
The answer "TONS" is the right solution because it is a common term used to refer to heavy weights. It is a concise and fitting answer for the clue.
Intense : KEEN
The word "keen" means having a strong or intense feeling. Therefore, it is a suitable answer for the clue "intense."
Inventor who said, “I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work” : EDISON
The answer is "EDISON" because Thomas Edison, the famous inventor, is credited with saying the quote mentioned in the clue.
Iridescent gem : OPAL
The answer to "Iridescent gem" is "OPAL" because opals are known for their unique play of colors, which gives them an iridescent appearance.
Iridescent gem : OPAL
The answer "OPAL" is the right solution because opals are known for their iridescent play of colors, making them a perfect fit for the clue "iridescent gem."
Just : FAIR
The word "just" can be synonymous with "only," meaning it refers to something or someone that is exclusively or solely the case. Therefore, "ONLY" is the right answer for the clue.
Just : FAIR
The word "just" is often used to mean "only" or "merely." Therefore, the answer "MERELY" fits the clue and provides a synonym for "just."
Just : FAIR
The word "just" can mean "fair" or "equitable," making "FAIR" the appropriate answer.
Just : FAIR
"MERE" is a synonym for "just" meaning only or simply.
Katniss Everdeen portrayer, to fans : J LAW
The answer "J LAW" is the right solution because it is a commonly used nickname for Jennifer Lawrence, the actress who portrayed Katniss Everdeen in the Hunger Games movies.
Kylo __ : “The Last Jedi” villain
The answer to "Kylo __" is "The Last Jedi" villain because in the movie "The Last Jedi," Kylo Ren is portrayed as the primary antagonist.
Life itself, to a crepehanger : COSMIC JOKE
The phrase "Life itself" refers to the concept of existence. A "crepehanger" is someone who is pessimistic or gloomy. "Cosmic joke" implies that life is seen as a humorous or ironic situation on a grand scale. Thus, "cosmic joke" is the right answer because it captures the idea that life is perceived as a pessimistic or gloomy joke.
Lines at the register? : UPC
The answer "UPC" is the right solution because "UPC" stands for Universal Product Code, which is a series of lines and numbers that are scanned at the register to identify a product.
Lisa Halaby’s royal name : NOOR
The answer to "Lisa Halaby's royal name" is "NOOR" because Lisa Halaby married King Hussein of Jordan and took on the name Queen Noor.
LOOP? : REFLECTING “POOL”
The answer to "LOOP?" is "REFLECTING 'POOL'." In this clue, the word "LOOP" is enclosed in quotation marks, indicating that it is not meant to be taken literally. The word "REFLECTING" suggests that we need to find a word related to reflection or mirroring. The word "POOL" fits this description, as a reflecting pool is a shallow body of water that mirrors its surroundings. Therefore, "REFLECTING 'POOL'" is the correct answer.
Lummox : OAF
The answer "OAF" fits the clue "Lummox" because an oaf is a term used to describe a clumsy, awkward, or foolish person.
Midwestern Native : SAUK
The answer "SAUK" is the right solution because the Sauk tribe is a Native American tribe that historically inhabited the Midwestern region of the United States.
Mind : OBEY
Mind : OBEY
Moussaka ingredient : LAMB
The answer to "Moussaka ingredient" is "LAMB" because lamb is a commonly used meat in traditional moussaka recipes.
Mouthwash brand : SCOPE
The answer to "Mouthwash brand" is "SCOPE" because SCOPE is a well-known brand of mouthwash commonly found in stores.
New faces in the staff lounge : HIREES
The word "HIREES" is the right solution because it refers to new employees who have recently been hired. They would be considered "new faces" in the staff lounge.
Not old : NEW
The answer "NEW" is the right solution because it is the opposite of "old." It implies something that is recent or just created.
Not quite aligned : OFFSET
The word "offset" means to be slightly out of alignment or not perfectly aligned. It is the right answer because it accurately describes something that is not quite aligned.
Overhang : EAVE
The answer to "Overhang" is "EAVE" because an eave is the part of a roof that overhangs the wall of a building, providing protection from the elements.
Overhang : EAVE
The answer to "Overhang" is "EAVE" because an eave is the part of a roof that overhangs the walls of a building, providing shade and protection from the elements.
Parachute necessity : CORD
The answer "CORD" is the right solution because a parachute requires a strong cord or rope to connect the canopy to the person wearing it. This cord is essential for a safe and controlled descent during a parachute jump.
Picks out, for short : IDS
The answer "IDS" is the right solution for the clue "Picks out, for short" because "IDS" is a commonly used abbreviation for "identifications." In this context, "picks out" refers to selecting or identifying something or someone, and "IDS" is a shortened form of the word that fits the clue.
Plumes : CRESTS
The answer to "Plumes" is "CRESTS" because crests are decorative plumes or tufts of feathers on the head of certain birds.
Pot sweetener : BONUS OFFER
The answer "BONUS OFFER" is the right solution for the clue "Pot sweetener" because a bonus offer is something extra that is added to sweeten a deal or make it more enticing. In this context, "pot" refers to a sum of money or a financial reward, and a "sweetener" is something added to make it more attractive. Therefore, "BONUS OFFER" fits the clue perfectly.
QB stat : ATT
The answer "ATT" stands for "attempt" and is commonly used as a QB stat in football to represent the number of passes attempted by a quarterback.
Radio wave-emitting star : PULSAR
A pulsar is the right solution because it is a type of neutron star that emits beams of electromagnetic radiation, including radio waves, from its magnetic poles.
RAW? : REVOLUTIONARY “WAR”
The answer to "RAW?" is "REVOLUTIONARY WAR" because "RAW" is a hint that we need to look for a synonym or related word. In this case, "RAW" can be associated with the word "REVOLUTIONARY," and "WAR" completes the phrase, making it a fitting solution.
Recital piece for a double-reed woodwind : OBOE SOLO
The answer "OBOE SOLO" fits the clue because the oboe is a double-reed woodwind instrument commonly used in recitals, and a solo is a musical piece performed by a single instrument or voice.
Roman dozen : XII
The Roman numeral for twelve is "XII".
Root words? : CHANT
The answer to "Root words?" is "CHANT" because "chant" can refer to the repetitive singing or recitation of words or sounds, which can be considered as the "root" or foundation of a song or prayer.
Selena or Selena Gomez : LATINA
The answer "LATINA" is the right solution because both Selena and Selena Gomez are well-known Latinas, which refers to women of Latin American origin.
Self-composure : POISE
The word "poise" is the right solution because it means self-composure or graceful balance. It is a concise and fitting answer for the given clue.
Senate position : PAGE
Shocked : AGASP
The answer "AGASP" is the right solution for "Shocked" because it is a word that describes the feeling of being surprised or astonished.
Slugger Judge who was AP Athlete of the Year in 2022 : AARON
Solitary sort : HERMIT
The term "solitary" refers to being alone or enjoying one's own company. A "loner" is someone who prefers to be alone and avoids social interactions. Therefore, "loner" is the right solution for the clue "Solitary sort."
Solitary sort : HERMIT
The word "hermit" is commonly associated with someone who chooses to live alone and in seclusion. Therefore, it is an appropriate answer for the clue "solitary sort."
Solitary sort : HERMIT
The answer "LONER" fits the clue "Solitary sort" because a "loner" is someone who prefers to be alone or solitary rather than being with others.
Some green sauces : PESTOS
The answer to "Some green sauces" is "PESTOS" because pestos are a type of sauce that are typically green in color. They are made by blending ingredients like herbs, garlic, nuts, and olive oil.
Spice cookie spice : MACE
The spice cookie spice "MACE" is the right solution because it is a common spice used in baking, known for its warm and slightly sweet flavor.
SPOT? : FLIP “TOPS”
"Spot" can be used as a synonym for "Area" in the sense of a particular place or location. Hence, "Area" is the right solution.
SPOT? : FLIP “TOPS”
The word "Spot" can be used as a verb meaning "to see" or "to notice". "See" is also a synonym for "spot". Therefore, "SEE" is the correct answer to the clue. The clue "Taco truck condiments" suggests that the answer is a plural noun, and "SEE" fits this description.
SPOT? : FLIP “TOPS”
The answer to "Spot" is "SITE" because "site" can refer to a specific location or place, which matches the clue "Spot."
SPOT? : FLIP “TOPS”
The answer to "SPOT?" is "FLIP "TOPS"". In this clue, "SPOT?" is a question mark clue indicating a wordplay or a play on words. In this case, "FLIP" is a hint to reverse or flip the letters of a word, and "TOPS" refers to the upper part or the first letters of a word. So, by reversing or flipping the letters of "TOPS", we get "SPOT", which is the answer to the clue.
SPOT? : FLIP “TOPS”
The answer to "Spot" is "SITE" because a site is a specific place or location.
Squiggly baby, to a sitter : LAPFUL
The answer "LAPFUL" is the right solution because when a baby is squiggly, they may be difficult to hold or carry. In this context, a sitter would need to have a "LAPFUL" of the baby to keep them secure and prevent them from squirming away.
Sunlit lobbies : ATRIA
The answer "ATRIA" is the right solution because it refers to sunlit lobbies, which are typically found in large buildings like hotels or shopping centers. The plural form of "atrium" is "atria," and atria are known for their open, well-lit spaces that often have plants or other decorative elements.
Swab target : EARWAX
The answer "EARWAX" is the right solution for the clue "Swab target" because when you swab your ear, you are often trying to clean or remove the wax that can build up there.
Tate Modern filler : ART
The clue "Tate Modern filler" suggests that we are looking for a word that fills the blank or space at the Tate Modern. The most fitting answer for this would be "ART," as the Tate Modern is a renowned art museum in London.
Unblinking looks : STARES
The word "STARES" is the right solution because it accurately describes unblinking looks. When someone stares, they gaze intently without blinking, which matches the clue.
Variety : TYPE
The answer "ILK" is the right solution because it is a word that means "type" or "kind," which is synonymous with "variety."
Variety : TYPE
The word "type" can refer to different categories or kinds of things, which matches the meaning of "variety."
Vegetarian : MEAT FREE
The answer "MEAT FREE" is the right solution for the clue "Vegetarian" because it directly describes someone who chooses not to eat meat.
Verdi aria that translates to “It was you” : ERI TU
The answer "ERI TU" is the right solution because it is an aria from the opera "Un ballo in maschera" by Giuseppe Verdi, and it translates to "It was you" in English.
Washington, but not Washington, D.C. : STATE
The answer is "STATE" because Washington refers to a state in this context, not Washington, D.C.
Wolf of the sea : ORCA
The ORCA is known as the "wolf of the sea" because it is a powerful and efficient predator, similar to how a wolf is on land. Its hunting prowess and dominance in the ocean make it an apt answer for this clue.
Wolverine, for one : X-MAN
The answer "X-MAN" is the right solution because Wolverine is a popular character from the X-Men comic book series.
__ Miami CF : INTER
The answer is "INTER" because "Inter Miami CF" is a Major League Soccer team based in Miami. "Inter" is the name of the team, so it fits the clue.
“Collapse Into Now” band : REM
The answer to "Collapse Into Now" band is "REM" because REM is the abbreviation for the band R.E.M., known for their album "Collapse Into Now".
“Just a Geek” memoirist Wheaton : WIL
The answer "WIL" is the right solution because it is the first name of the memoirist Wheaton, who wrote the book "Just a Geek".
“Last Week Tonight” host John : OLIVER
The answer to "Last Week Tonight" host John is "OLIVER" because that is the first name of the host of the show, John Oliver.
” … but I could be wrong” : … OR NOT
The phrase "... but I could be wrong" often implies a sense of uncertainty or doubt. The answer "OR NOT" is a concise way to express that uncertainty. It suggests that the statement preceding it may or may not be accurate.