Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 29 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.
2024 WNBA champs : LIBS Down 1 Speech therapy subject
The answer is "LIBS" because the 2024 WNBA champions are likely to be the New York Liberty, commonly known as the "LIBS."
Accessory for fall collections? : RAKE
The answer "RAKE" fits the clue "Accessory for fall collections?" because a rake is a tool commonly used in the fall to collect leaves and debris.
Animating spirit : SOUL
"Soul" is the right answer because it is often referred to as the animating spirit or the essence of a person or living being. It is believed to be the source of one's emotions, thoughts, and actions.
Backup plan : ALTERNATIVE
"Alternative" is the right answer because a backup plan is an alternative option in case the original plan fails. It serves as a substitute or choice that can be used instead.
Bath and body work locations? : SPAS
The answer "SPAS" fits the clue "Bath and body work locations?" because spas are places where people go to relax, rejuvenate, and take care of their bodies through services like massages, facials, and baths.
Bills tracked at WheresGeorge.com : ONES
The answer "ONES" fits the clue because "ONES" is a common term for one-dollar bills, which can be tracked on WheresGeorge.com.
Bit of wordplay : PUN
The answer "PUN" is a type of wordplay that involves a play on words, usually for humor or a clever twist. It fits the clue "Bit of wordplay" because a pun is a small, clever play on words.
Blvd. kin : AVE
The abbreviation "AVE" is short for avenue, which is a type of street similar to a boulevard. So, "AVE" is a kin or relative of a boulevard.
Bucks : CASH
"STAGS" is the right answer because "bucks" is a term often used to refer to male deer, and male deer are called "stags."
Bucks : CASH
"CASH" is a synonym for "bucks" as it refers to money or currency. In informal language, "bucks" is often used to mean dollars or cash.
Buddy : PAL
The word "Buddy" is often used as a synonym for "Pal", meaning a close friend or companion. Therefore, "PAL" is a fitting answer to the clue.
Buddy : PAL
The word "Buddy" is often used as a synonym for "Friend", which is a person whom one knows and trusts well and who is attached to one by feelings of affection or personal regard. Therefore, "Friend" is the right solution for the crossword clue "Buddy".
Buddy : PAL
The word "pal" is a common informal term for a friend or buddy. It is a fitting answer to the clue "Buddy."
Buddy : PAL
The word "PAL" is a synonym for "buddy," meaning a close friend or companion.
Carne __ : ASADA
The answer to "Carne __" is "steak dish" because "carne" is the Spanish word for "meat" and "steak" is a specific type of meat, often associated with a dish.
Carne __ : ASADA
The answer to "Carne __" is "ASADA" because "asada" is a Spanish word that means "grilled" or "roasted," often used to describe meat.
Carne __ : ASADA
The answer "ASADA" completes the phrase "Carne Asada," which is a popular Mexican dish consisting of grilled and marinated beef.
Catch in a cage : TRAP
The answer "TRAP" fits the clue "Catch in a cage" because a trap is a device used to capture animals by luring them into a confined space.
Catchy song : BOP
The word "bop" can be used to describe a catchy and upbeat song, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Catchy song".
Catchy song : BOP
"BOP" is a term often used to describe a catchy or lively song. It is a slang term that has become popular in recent years, especially in the context of music and dancing.
Channel HQ’d in Atlanta : CNN
CNN is the abbreviation for Cable News Network, which is headquartered in Atlanta, Georgia.
Chip dip : SALSA
"SALSA" is a popular dip made from tomatoes, onions, peppers, and other ingredients, commonly used with chips.
Chip dip : SALSA
"SALSA" is the right solution because it is a popular type of dip made from tomatoes, onions, peppers, and other ingredients commonly used with chips.
Coastal Pennsylvania town : ERIE
"Erie" is the answer because Erie is a coastal town located in Pennsylvania along Lake Erie.
Course with a long reading list, for short : LIT
The term "lit" is often used as a slang abbreviation for literature, which is a course that typically has a long reading list.
Creme brulee dish : RAMEKIN
The answer "RAMEKIN" is the right solution because a ramekin is a small ceramic or glass dish used for baking and serving individual portions of dishes like creme brulee.
Cut and collect : REAP
The word "reap" means to cut or gather a crop, making it the correct answer for the clue "Cut and collect."
Dart : FLIT
"FLIT" can mean to move swiftly and lightly, much like a dart flying through the air. It is a fitting answer for the clue "Dart."
Devilish : EVIL
The word "devilish" is synonymous with "evil," meaning wicked or morally wrong. Therefore, "EVIL" is the right solution.
Didn’t bother : LET BE
"Let be" is a phrase that means to allow something to remain as it is without interference or disturbance, which fits the clue "Didn’t bother" well.
Director Gerwig : GRETA
The clue "Director Gerwig" refers to a person who is a director with the last name Gerwig. The most well-known director with this name is Greta Gerwig, making "Greta" the correct answer.
Director Gerwig : GRETA
Greta Gerwig is a well-known director in the film industry, making movies such as "Lady Bird" and "Little Women." Therefore, "Director Gerwig" clues to the answer "GRETA."
Do something : ACT
The answer to "Do something" is "ACT" because "act" means to take action or perform a specific task. It is a concise and fitting solution for the clue.
Do something : ACT
The word "act" is a synonym for "do something". In this context, "act" means to take action or perform a task, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
Double take? : STUNT
In this clue, "Double take" is a play on words that suggests looking at something twice. A "stunt" is a performance or action that is meant to surprise or impress, often causing someone to do a double take or look again.
Dustpan partner : BROOM
The answer "BROOM" is the right solution because a broom is commonly used together with a dustpan to sweep up dirt and debris.
Electricity units : VOLTS
"Volts" is the unit used to measure electrical potential difference, or voltage. It is a common unit in the field of electricity.
Elevator name : OTIS
The answer "OTIS" is the right solution because Otis is a well-known brand that manufactures elevators, making it a common name associated with elevators.
Epitome of ease : PIE
unknown
Feature of some cheeses : FUNK
"FUNK" is the right solution because it describes a strong, distinctive odor or flavor found in some cheeses, often associated with aged or blue cheeses. It is a common term used to characterize this particular characteristic of certain cheeses.
Fighting spirit? : ARES
The clue "Fighting spirit?" is a wordplay clue where "Fighting spirit" refers to the Greek god of war, Ares. So, the answer "ARES" fits the clue as it directly corresponds to the concept of a fighting spirit.
Fireplace fuel : LOGS
The answer to "Fireplace fuel" is "WOOD" because wood is commonly used as fuel in fireplaces to generate heat and create a cozy atmosphere.
Fireplace fuel : LOGS
The answer "LOG" fits the clue "Fireplace fuel" because logs are commonly used as fuel in fireplaces to create a fire and generate heat.
Fireplace fuel : LOGS
The answer "LOGS" fits the clue "Fireplace fuel" because logs are commonly used as fuel in fireplaces to create a cozy and warm atmosphere.
Get the show on the road : ROCK AND ROLL
"Get the show on the road" is a common expression meaning to start something or get things moving. "Rock and roll" is a genre of music associated with energy and excitement, making it a fitting answer that matches the meaning of the clue.
Gold or silver : METAL
The answer "METAL" fits the clue "Gold or silver" because both gold and silver are types of metals.
Greige hue : ECRU
"Ecru" is a greige hue, which is a pale gray or beige color. It is a common term used in the fashion and design industries to describe this particular shade.
Hardly working : IDLE
The term "idle" means not working or inactive, which perfectly fits the clue "Hardly working."
Hindu goddess : DEVI
"Devi" is a common term used in Hinduism to refer to a goddess. It is a general term that can be used to address any female deity in the Hindu pantheon.
House mems. : REPS
"House mems." is a shortened form of "House members," often referring to members of the United States House of Representatives. Therefore, the abbreviation "REPS" is the correct answer.
Insincere : GLIB
"GLIB" means fluent and voluble but insincere and shallow. It fits the clue "Insincere" because it describes someone who speaks smoothly and confidently but lacks sincerity.
Lasting signs of damage : SCARS
"SCARS" are lasting marks left on the skin after a wound or injury has healed, making them a fitting answer for the clue "Lasting signs of damage."
Like better : PREFER
"PREFER" is the right answer because it means to like or choose one thing over another.
Login need : USER ID
The answer "USER ID" fits the clue "Login need" because a USER ID is typically required to log in to a website or system as a means of identifying the user.
Mardi __ : GRAS
The answer to "Mardi __" is "pre-Lenten festival" because Mardi Gras is a pre-Lenten festival celebrated in many parts of the world, particularly in areas with French cultural influence.
Mardi __ : GRAS
The answer "GRAS" fits the clue "Mardi __" because "Gras" is the French word for "Fat," and "Mardi Gras" is a traditional event that takes place before the fasting period of Lent, where people indulge in rich foods before the fasting begins.
Mirror images? : SELFIES
The clue "Mirror images?" is a play on words suggesting that "selfies" are images people take of themselves, often using a mirror to see themselves while taking the photo.
Modeling supply : GLUE
Most populous continent : ASIA
Asia is the most populous continent because it is home to over 4.6 billion people, making up about 60% of the world's population. This makes it the most densely populated continent in the world.
Most populous continent : ASIA
Asia is the most populous continent because it is home to over half of the world's population, with countries like China and India having the largest populations in the world.
Nashville district with historic recording studios, or what can be found four times in this puzzle : MUSIC ROW
The answer "MUSIC ROW" fits the clue because Music Row is a district in Nashville known for its historic recording studios. Additionally, the phrase "MUSIC ROW" can be found four times in the puzzle, making it a fitting answer.
One-seed loss, e.g. : UPSET
The term "upset" in sports refers to a surprising victory by an underdog or lower-ranked team, often causing a one-seed loss in a tournament.
Only okay : SO-SO
The phrase "so-so" is commonly used to describe something that is just okay or average. In this case, "only okay" is synonymous with "so-so," making it the right solution.
Orator’s platform : DAIS
The word "DAIS" refers to a raised platform where a speaker stands to address an audience, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Orator's platform."
Org. offering tows : AAA
"AAA" is the right answer because AAA (American Automobile Association) is an organization that offers towing services to its members.
Outdoorsy outlet : REI
REI is a popular outdoor retail store that sells a variety of outdoor gear and clothing, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Outdoorsy outlet."
People : FOLK
"FOLK" is a synonym for "people" often used in a more informal or traditional context, making it a suitable answer for the clue.
Personalizable cookie : OREO
The answer "OREO" fits because Oreo cookies can be personalized with custom designs or messages using edible ink or frosting.
Pita filling : FALAFEL
The answer "FALAFEL" is a common filling for pita bread in Middle Eastern cuisine, made from ground chickpeas or fava beans.
Playground fixture where pushing is encouraged : SWING
The answer "SWING" fits the clue because swings are a common playground fixture where pushing (to gain momentum) is encouraged for enjoyment.
Podcast installments, briefly : EPS
The answer "EPS" is short for "episodes," which are individual installments of a podcast. In this case, "briefly" indicates that we are looking for an abbreviation, making "EPS" the correct solution.
Pointillism units : DOTS
The art technique of Pointillism uses small distinct dots to create an image, making "DOTS" the right answer for "Pointillism units."
Quick snooze : NAP
"NAP" is the right solution because a quick snooze is commonly referred to as a nap, which is a short period of sleep, especially during the day.
Raised bed, maybe : LOFT
Red-letter : BANNER
The term "red-letter" refers to something important or noteworthy. In this case, "BANNER" fits as it can be a prominent and attention-grabbing display, often used to highlight important information or events.
Regarding : AS TO
"Regarding" can be defined as "with respect to" or "in regard to". "As to" is a phrase that means the same thing and can be abbreviated as "ASTO", which is the crossword answer.
Regarding : AS TO
The word "as" can mean "in the capacity or role of," and "for" can mean "with regard to." "As for" is a common phrase used to introduce a topic or to express a view or opinion on a matter. Therefore, "as for" is a suitable synonym for "regarding."
Regarding : AS TO
The answer "AS TO" is the right solution for the clue "Regarding" because it is a common phrase used to introduce or indicate the topic or subject being discussed.
Regarding : AS TO
The answer "AS FOR" is the right solution because it means "with regard to" or "concerning." It is a common phrase used to introduce a new topic or provide additional information.
Regarding : AS TO
The word "about" is a synonym for "regarding," both indicating concerning or with respect to a particular topic or subject.
Regarding : AS TO
The word "as" means "regarding" or "concerning," and "to" is used to indicate the subject or topic. Therefore, "as to" is a phrase commonly used to mean "regarding" in a formal or official context.
Regarding : AS TO
"IN RE" is a Latin phrase commonly used in legal contexts to mean "in the matter of" or "concerning." It is often used to introduce the subject or topic being discussed.
Regarding : AS TO
"Regarding" is a common phrase used to introduce a topic or subject. "As to" is a similar phrase that can be used in the same way, making it a suitable answer for the clue.
Round Table title : SIR
The answer to "Round Table title" is "SIR" because "SIR" is a respectful title given to knights, and the Round Table is associated with the legendary King Arthur and his knights.
Round Table title : SIR
The title "Sir" is often used for knights who would sit at the Round Table in King Arthur's court.
Seaweed snack : NORI
"NORI" is the right solution because it is a type of seaweed commonly used in Japanese cuisine, especially for making sushi rolls.
Second-most populous continent : AFRICA
The answer is "AFRICA" because Africa is the continent with the second-highest population in the world, after Asia.
Sheer delight : GLEE
The answer "GLEE" fits the clue "Sheer delight" because glee is a synonym for joy or happiness, conveying a sense of pure and unadulterated delight.
Sheer delight : GLEE
The word "glee" is often used to describe a feeling of sheer delight or joy, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
Shoelace tangle : KNOT
The answer "KNOT" fits because a tangled shoelace forms a knot.
Smell : ODOR
The word "odor" is the right solution for the clue "smell" because it is a synonym for smell or scent.
Smell : ODOR
"ODOR" is the right answer because it is a synonym for smell, specifically referring to a distinctive or unpleasant smell.
Smell : ODOR
"Smell" is a clue that indicates an unpleasant odor or stench, which can be described as a "reek." In this context, "reek" is a fitting answer that aligns with the given clue.
Smell : ODOR
"ODOR" is the right answer because it is a synonym for smell. Both words refer to scents or aromas that can be detected by the nose.
Smell : ODOR
The word "aroma" is commonly used to describe a pleasant smell or fragrance, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Smell."
Some viral content : MEMES
The answer "MEMES" fits the clue "Some viral content" because memes are images, videos, or text that are shared widely on the internet, often going viral across social media platforms.
Spot for a backyard barbecue : PATIO
The answer "PATIO" fits the clue "Spot for a backyard barbecue" because a patio is a commonly used outdoor area in a backyard where people often set up grills and tables for cooking and dining outside.
Squeaks (by) : EKES
The answer "EKES" is the right solution because it means to barely or narrowly achieve something, which matches the clue "Squeaks (by)" indicating a close or minimal accomplishment.
Squeaks (by) : EKES
The word "EKES" means to squeak by or manage to succeed with difficulty, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Squeaks (by)."
St. Kitts and __ : NEVIS
The two islands of St. Kitts and Nevis form one country in the Caribbean. Nevis is the second part of the country's name, making it the correct answer to the clue "St. Kitts and __."
St. Louis team : BLUES
The St. Louis Blues is a professional ice hockey team based in St. Louis, Missouri, so "BLUES" is the correct answer.
Star-nosed __ : MOLE
The "Star-nosed" part of the clue refers to a unique feature of the mole, which is the star-shaped nose. Therefore, the correct answer to "Star-nosed __" is "MOLE."
Sunset hue : ORANGE
"Sunset hue" is a clue that suggests a color often seen during sunsets. The color that is most commonly associated with sunsets is "ORANGE," making it the right answer.
Taken together : IN ALL
The phrase "in all" means considering everything or all things taken together, which fits the clue "Taken together."
Tibetan ethnic group : SHERPA
The Tibetan ethnic group known as Sherpa is well-known for their expertise in mountain climbing and guiding expeditions in the Himalayas, particularly Mount Everest.
Tibetan ethnic group : SHERPA
Sherpa is a Tibetan ethnic group known for their expertise in mountaineering and guiding in the Himalayas, particularly on Mount Everest. They are renowned for their strength, endurance, and knowledge of the mountains, making them a fitting answer for the clue "Tibetan ethnic group."
Tiebreakers, briefly : OTS
"OTS" is the right solution because in sports, especially in tennis or volleyball, a tiebreaker is often referred to as "OT" for overtime, and "S" is added to indicate that it is plural.
Titania’s husband : OBERON
Oberon is the husband of Titania in William Shakespeare's play "A Midsummer Night's Dream."
Ward (off) : FEND
The word "fend" means to defend or protect oneself against something, which aligns with the clue "Ward (off)". Therefore, "fend" is the right solution for this crossword clue.
Ward (off) : FEND
"Stave" in this context means to prevent or keep something away, such as warding off danger or illness.
Ward (off) : FEND
"FEND" means to ward off or defend against something, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Ward (off)".
__ facto : IPSO
The Latin phrase "ipso facto" means "by the fact itself" or "in and of itself." In crossword clues, "__ facto" is a common hint for the answer "IPSO" as it is the first word of the phrase.
__ facto : IPSO
"__ facto" is a Latin phrase that means "by the fact itself." The correct completion of the phrase is "ipso facto," which is a common legal term used to indicate that a certain conclusion can be drawn directly from the preceding facts.
__ facto : IPSO
"__ facto" is a Latin phrase that means "by the fact itself." The correct completion for this phrase is "ipso," making it "ipso facto."
__ roll : KAISER
The term "Tootsie Roll" refers to a chocolate-flavored, chewy candy that has been around since 1896. It was named after the creator's daughter whose nickname was Tootsie.
__ roll : KAISER
The answer "KAISER" fits the clue "__ roll" because Kaiser roll is a type of bread roll named after the Kaiser (emperor) of Austria.
“A Sister’s Eulogy for Steve Jobs” essayist Simpson : MONA
Mona Simpson is the author of the essay "A Sister’s Eulogy for Steve Jobs," making "MONA" the correct answer to the clue.
“Sure about that?” : IS IT?
The answer "IS IT?" fits the clue "Sure about that?" because it is a question that challenges the certainty of a statement, asking for confirmation or doubt.
“This may be hard to hear” : SIT DOWN
“We were all there” : I SAW
The answer "I SAW" fits the clue "We were all there" because "I SAW" indicates witnessing or being present at an event, which aligns with the idea of being there with others.