Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 31 January 2024, 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.
Abbr. before a year : ESTAB
Adversary : ENEMY
The word "adversary" refers to someone who opposes or acts against another person. The term "enemy" is a fitting answer because it describes a person who is actively against someone else.
Back : AGO
"Back" is a word that can mean "in the past". "Ago" is a synonym for "in the past", making it a fitting answer for the clue.
Back : AGO
The answer to "Back" is "AGO" because "ago" is a word that refers to a time in the past. It fits the clue as it indicates a direction back in time.
Back : AGO
The word "back" can refer to support or financial backing. "Fund" fits this definition as it means to provide financial support.
Bakery employees who offer free samples? : CUPCAKE HOLDERS
The answer "CUPCAKE HOLDERS" is the right solution because bakery employees often hold trays or stands with samples of cupcakes to offer to customers.
Barbershop quartet part : TENOR
The answer "TENOR" is the right solution because in a barbershop quartet, the tenor is the vocal part that typically sings the highest notes.
Bartender’s supply : SODA
The answer "SODA" is the right solution because soda is a common ingredient used by bartenders to create various mixed drinks and cocktails. It is a popular choice for adding carbonation and flavor to beverages.
BEACH Act org. : EPA
The answer to "BEACH Act org." is "EPA" because the BEACH Act is a federal law in the United States that aims to protect and improve the quality of water at beaches. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is the federal agency responsible for enforcing this law and ensuring the safety of beach water.
Bidding site : EBAY
The answer to "Bidding site" is "EBAY" because eBay is an online marketplace where users can buy and sell items through a bidding process.
Breathe fire, say : RAGE
The answer "RAGE" fits the clue "Breathe fire, say" because when someone is raging, they are expressing intense anger or fury, which can be metaphorically compared to breathing fire.
Brief visit : STOPOVER
The answer "STOPOVER" fits the clue "Brief visit" because a stopover refers to a short break or stay during a journey, typically at an intermediate point.
Canapé base, maybe : TOAST
The answer "TOAST" is the right solution because it is a common base for canapés. Canapés often have various toppings or spreads served on a piece of toasted bread, making "TOAST" a fitting answer.
Chant for the red, white, and blue : USA! USA!
The answer "USA! USA!" is the right solution because it is a common chant used to show support and patriotism for the United States, often heard during sporting events or national celebrations.
Chocolate __ : LAB
The answer to "Chocolate __" is "LAB" because LAB is a common abbreviation for Labrador, which is a breed of dog known for its love of chocolate.
Cold feet or hot seat : IDIOM
The answer "IDIOM" is the right solution because "Cold feet" and "hot seat" are both common idiomatic expressions. An idiom is a phrase or expression that has a figurative meaning different from its literal interpretation. In this case, "cold feet" means to feel nervous or hesitant, while "hot seat" refers to being in a difficult or uncomfortable situation. Therefore, "IDIOM" is the appropriate answer.
Come clean? : BATHE
The answer to "Come clean?" is "BATHE" because when we "come clean," we usually take a bath or shower to cleanse ourselves.
Come clean? : BATHE
The phrase "come clean" means to admit or confess the truth. "Own up" is a common expression that means the same thing, making it the correct answer to the clue.
Come clean? : BATHE
The answer to "Come clean?" is "BATHE" because when we "come clean," we often take a bath or shower to cleanse ourselves physically.
Comfort food with a high price tag? : POTPIE OF GOLD
Delight : ELATE
The word "JOY" is a suitable answer to the clue "Delight" because joy is a feeling of great happiness or pleasure, which is often associated with delight.
Delight : ELATE
The word "thrill" is the right solution because it means to experience intense excitement or joy, which is synonymous with the word "delight."
Delight : ELATE
The word "ELATE" means to fill with joy or delight, which is a perfect match for the clue "Delight."
Delight : ELATE
"Glee" is a synonym for delight, meaning great pleasure or joy. In this case, "Glee" is the right solution because it directly matches the definition of "Delight."
Delight : ELATE
"Amuse" is a synonym for "delight," as it means to entertain or provide enjoyment.
Designer monogram : YSL
The answer "YSL" is the right solution because it is the monogram for the famous fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent.
Dog park sound : ARF!
The answer "ARF!" is the right solution because it is an onomatopoeic representation of the sound that dogs make.
Done : ENDED
The word "ended" is a synonym for "done." It means to bring something to a conclusion or to finish it. Therefore, "ended" is the right solution for the clue "done."
Down-to-earth : REAL
The word "REAL" is the right answer because it means practical, sensible, and grounded. It perfectly fits the clue "Down-to-earth" as it describes someone or something that is realistic and not overly idealistic or extravagant.
Equal : PEER
The word "equal" is a verb that means to be the same in quantity, size, or value. The word "are" is the second person plural form of the verb "to be," which is used to indicate a state of equality. Therefore, "are" is the right solution to the clue "Equal."
Equal : PEER
The answer to "Equal" is "PEER" because a peer is someone who is of the same status or rank as another person, making them equal.
Eva of “Green Acres” : GABOR
The answer "GABOR" is the right solution because Eva Gabor was the actress who played the character of Lisa Douglas in the TV show "Green Acres."
Excursion where one might see something brewing? : BEER TOUR
The answer "BEER TOUR" is the right solution because it combines the idea of an "excursion" with "something brewing." A beer tour is a specific type of excursion where people visit breweries and learn about the brewing process, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
French 101 infinitive : AVOIR
The answer to "French 101 infinitive" is "AVOIR" because it is the French verb that means "to have." In French 101, students typically learn basic verbs, and "avoir" is one of the first verbs introduced.
Full of cheer : MERRY
The word "merry" is often associated with being cheerful and full of joy. It is a common adjective used to describe a happy and upbeat mood, making it the right solution for the clue "Full of cheer."
Fundraising org. : PTA
The answer "PTA" is the right solution because PTA stands for Parent-Teacher Association, which is a common organization involved in fundraising activities for schools.
Geico icon : GECKO
The answer "GECKO" is the right solution because the Geico insurance company is well known for using a gecko as their mascot or icon in their advertising campaigns.
Gets faint : DIMS
The word "dims" means to become faint or less bright. So, "dims" is the right answer for the clue "Gets faint".
High seas quaff : GROG
The answer to "High seas quaff" is "GROG" because it is a traditional alcoholic drink that was commonly consumed by sailors at sea.
Improves in a cellar, say : AGES
The answer "AGES" is the right solution because when wine or certain foods are stored in a cellar, they undergo a process called aging, which improves their flavor and quality over time.
Inevitable end : FATE
The answer to the clue "Inevitable end" is "FATE" because fate refers to a predetermined outcome or destiny that is beyond our control. It suggests that there is a predestined conclusion or result that will happen no matter what.
Islamic leader : IMAM
The answer to "Islamic leader" is "IMAM" because an Imam is a religious leader in Islam who leads prayers and serves as a spiritual guide for the community.
Islamic leader : IMAM
The answer to "Islamic leader" is "IMAM" because an imam is a religious leader in Islam who leads prayers and provides guidance to the Muslim community.
Job detail, for short : SPEC
The answer to "Job detail, for short" is "SPEC" because "SPEC" is a commonly used abbreviation for "specification," which refers to the specific details or requirements of a job or project.
Last remarks? : OBIT
The answer "OBIT" is the right solution because "Last remarks?" is a clever clue that is asking for the final words or remarks someone might make, which are often included in an obituary (short for obit).
Laundry brand : ERA
The answer to "Laundry brand" is "ERA" because ERA is a well-known brand of laundry detergent.
Like many students at Gallaudet University : DEAF
The answer "DEAF" is the right solution because Gallaudet University is a renowned institution for deaf and hard-of-hearing students. Therefore, it is reasonable to assume that many students at Gallaudet University are deaf.
Likelihood : ODDS
The word "odds" refers to the chances or probability of something happening. Therefore, it is the right solution for the clue "likelihood" as it directly relates to the concept of probability.
Medicinal plants : ALOES
ALOES is the right solution because it refers to a group of plants that have medicinal properties. These plants are commonly used in various forms, such as aloe vera gel, to treat skin conditions and promote healing.
Mess (with) : TAMPER
The answer to "Mess (with)" is "TOY" because when you "toy" with something, you play around with it or mess with it.
Mess (with) : TAMPER
The answer to "Mess (with)" is "TOY" because when you "toy" with something, you are playing with or casually interfering with it.
Mess (with) : TAMPER
The answer "TAMPER" is the right solution because it means to interfere, meddle, or mess with something. It is a verb that accurately describes the action of causing a mess or disturbance.
Misstep : ERROR
The word "misstep" typically refers to making a mistake or an error in judgment or action. Therefore, the answer "ERROR" is a fitting solution for this crossword clue.
Mistakes made while preparing a simple breakfast? : POP-TART FOULS
The answer "POP-TART FOULS" is a play on words. "Pop-Tarts" are a popular type of toaster pastry that can be part of a simple breakfast. The word "fouls" refers to mistakes or errors. So, the clue is asking for mistakes made while preparing a simple breakfast, and the answer suggests that the mistakes are related to Pop-Tarts.
Other, in Oaxaca : OTRO
The answer "OTRO" is the right solution because "Other" translates to "OTRO" in the Spanish language, and Oaxaca is a city in Mexico where Spanish is spoken.
Part of RBI : BATTED
The answer "BATTED" is the right solution because it is a verb that describes the action of hitting the ball in baseball, which is a part of earning an RBI (Run Batted In).
Pigeon fancier on “Sesame Street” : BERT
The answer is "BERT" because Bert is a character on "Sesame Street" who is known for his love of pigeons.
Pizza place : OVEN
The answer to the clue "Pizza place" is "OVEN" because pizzas are typically cooked in ovens.
Place to drive : TEE BOX
The answer "TEE BOX" is the right solution because it is a designated area on a golf course where players start each hole by driving the ball.
Pointed tools : AWLS
The answer to "Pointed tools" is "AWLS" because an awl is a pointed tool commonly used for making small holes in materials like leather or wood.
Purpose : USE
"End" can refer to the purpose or goal of something. For example, "What is the end of this project?" means "What is the purpose/goal of this project?"
Purpose : USE
The answer "USE" is the right solution for the clue "Purpose" because it refers to the intended function or reason for something.
Purpose : USE
"Intent" is synonymous with "purpose" as it refers to someone's reason or motivation for doing something.
Question from a server, or what was needed to create the answer to each starred clue : ROOM FOR DESSERT?
The answer "ROOM FOR DESSERT?" is the right solution because it is a question that a server might ask at the end of a meal, indicating if the customer has space or appetite for a sweet treat. The starred clues all hint at different types of desserts, so the answer "ROOM FOR DESSERT?" fits the theme of the crossword.
Rachel Maddow’s field : NEWS
The answer "NEWS" is the right solution because Rachel Maddow is a well-known news anchor and commentator. Therefore, her field of expertise is news.
Recipe amt. : TSP
The answer "TBSP" is short for tablespoon, which is a common unit of measurement in recipes. It is the right solution because it fits the clue "Recipe amt." as it refers to the amount of an ingredient to be used in a recipe.
Recipe amt. : TSP
The answer "TSP" is the right solution because it is an abbreviation for "teaspoon," which is a common unit of measurement used in recipes.
Record : LOG
The answer to "Record" is "LOG" because a log is a written record or a journal of events.
Record : LOG
Relaxed pace : TROT
The answer to "Relaxed pace" is "TROT" because a trot is a slow, steady, and relaxed gait for a horse.
Shed : LOSE
The word "shed" can mean to lose something, like weight or tears. Therefore, "LOSE" is the right answer.
Show up : ARRIVE
The word "ARRIVE" is the right solution because it means to show up or reach a certain destination.
Show up : ARRIVE
The answer "COME" is the right solution because it means to arrive or appear, which is the same as "showing up."
Simon or Garfunkel : NAME
The answer to "Simon or Garfunkel" is "NAME" because both Simon and Garfunkel are names of individuals.
Sleep apnea apparatus, initially : CPAP
The answer "CPAP" stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure, which is a common treatment for sleep apnea. The clue specifies "apparatus, initially," indicating that we need to take the initial letters of the words in the answer. Therefore, "CPAP" is the correct solution.
Small valley : DELL
"Dell" is a small, secluded valley or ravine, often covered with trees and grass. Therefore, "dell" is the correct solution for the crossword clue "Small valley."
Small valley : DELL
The answer to "Small valley" is "DELL" because a dell is a small, secluded valley.
Smallest state in India : GOA
The answer to "Smallest state in India" is "GOA" because Goa is the smallest state in terms of land area in India.
Soap brand : LAVA
The answer to "Soap brand" is "LAVA" because LAVA is a well-known brand that produces soap products.
Soap brand : LAVA
The answer to "Soap brand" is "DOVE" because Dove is a well-known brand that produces a variety of soaps and personal care products.
Soap brand : DOVE
The answer to "Soap brand" is "LAVA" because LAVA is a well-known brand that produces soap products.
Soap brand : DOVE
The answer to "Soap brand" is "DOVE" because Dove is a well-known brand that produces a variety of soaps and personal care products.
Some DEA employees : NARCS
The answer "NARCS" is the right solution because it is a slang term commonly used to refer to members of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).
Stable staple : OAT
The answer "OAT" is the right solution because oats are commonly found in stables and are a staple food for horses.
Summer hrs. in Portsmouth : EDT
The answer to "Summer hrs. in Portsmouth" is "EDT" because it stands for Eastern Daylight Time, which is the time zone observed in Portsmouth, during the summer months.
Terra __ : COTTA
The answer to "Terra __" is "COTTA" because "Terra" is a Latin word meaning "earth" or "land," and "cotta" is a clay material commonly used for pottery and sculptures. Thus, "Terra cotta" refers to a type of earthenware made from baked clay.
To boot : ALSO
The answer to "To boot" is "ALSO" because "to boot" is an idiomatic expression that means "in addition" or "as well." "ALSO" is a word that has a similar meaning, making it the correct answer for this clue.
Took a hatchet to : AXED Down 1 Tourist destination on the Yucatán
The answer to "Took a hatchet to" is "AXED" because "axing" something means to cut or chop it down, similar to using a hatchet.
Tracks : CUTS
The word "tracks" can have multiple meanings, but in this context, "cuts" is the right answer because it refers to the marks or grooves left behind by something moving or sliding across a surface.
Water waster : DRIP
The answer "DRIP" is the right solution because a drip refers to a small, steady flow of liquid, often wasted water when there is a leak or a faucet is not fully closed.
Wong of “Birds of Prey” : ALI
The answer "ALI" is the right solution because Wong is referring to the actress Ali Wong, who appeared in the movie "Birds of Prey."
Worker with a monotonous routine : DRONE
The term "drone" is often used to describe a worker who performs repetitive or monotonous tasks. This makes "drone" a fitting answer for the clue "Worker with a monotonous routine."
“A Man Called __” : Tom Hanks film based on a Fredrik Backman novel
The answer to "A Man Called __" is "Ove". This is the right solution because "A Man Called Ove" is a Tom Hanks film that is based on a novel written by Fredrik Backman.
“Frozen” sister : ELSA
The clue mentions "Frozen", which is a popular Disney movie. "Elsa" is the name of one of the sisters in the movie, who has become a well-known character. Therefore, "Elsa" is the correct answer to the clue.
“Frozen” sister : ELSA
The answer to "Frozen" sister is "ELSA" because Elsa is one of the main characters in the Disney movie "Frozen" and she is the sister of the other main character, Anna.
“Not that much” : LESS
The answer to "Not that much" is "LESS" because "less" indicates a smaller amount or degree compared to something else. It is a common phrase used to express a relatively small quantity.
“Not that much” : LESS
"A BIT" is a common phrase used to indicate a small amount or degree, making it synonymous with "Not that much."
“Pronto” letters : ASAP
The answer "ASAP!" is the right solution because it is an abbreviation for "As Soon As Possible," which is a common phrase used to express urgency or the need for something to be done quickly.
“Pronto” letters : ASAP
The answer "ASAP" is the right solution because "Pronto" is a word often used to mean "as soon as possible," and "ASAP" is an abbreviation for that phrase.
“The A-Team” actor : MR T
The answer to "The A-Team" actor is "MR T" because he is a well-known actor who played the character B.A. Baracus on the TV show "The A-Team".