Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 17 February 2025, Monday. Find all answers and solutions here.
We've also tries to explain why the answer is the correct solution for each clue.
We're not affiliated with LA Times in any way.
Clues and answers
Clues followed by answers and an explanation underneath.
AAA service : TOW
The answer "TOW" fits the clue "AAA service" because AAA is a well-known roadside assistance service that provides towing services for vehicles in need of assistance.
Aardvark snacks : ANTS
The aardvark's main food source is ants, making "ANTS" the right answer for "Aardvark snacks."
Actress Hayek Pinault : SALMA
Salma Hayek Pinault is a well-known actress in Hollywood. In crossword puzzles, it is common to see clues that refer to celebrities by their first names only. Therefore, "Actress Hayek Pinault" is a clue hinting at the first name "Salma."
Actress Sorvino : MIRA
The answer to "Actress Sorvino" is "MIRA" because Mira Sorvino is an actress known for her roles in movies such as "Mighty Aphrodite" and "Romy and Michele's High School Reunion".
Actress Sorvino : MIRA
The answer to "Actress Sorvino" is "MIRA" because Mira Sorvino is an American actress known for her roles in movies like "Mighty Aphrodite" and "Romy and Michele's High School Reunion".
Actress Sorvino : MIRA
Mira Sorvino is an actress known for her roles in movies such as "Mighty Aphrodite" and "Romy and Michele's High School Reunion". Therefore, the answer to "Actress Sorvino" is "MIRA".
Angsty music genre : EMO
The music genre known as "emo" is characterized by its emotional and often confessional lyrics, as well as its melodic and sometimes melancholic sound. It emerged in the 1990s as a subgenre of punk rock and has since evolved into various subgenres. The term "emo" is short for "emotional hardcore".
Angsty music genre : EMO
"Emo" is the right answer because it is a music genre characterized by emotional and confessional lyrics, often expressing feelings of angst and melancholy.
B and B : INN
The term "B and B" commonly refers to a bed and breakfast establishment, which is often abbreviated as "inn."
Baffled : LOST
The word "lost" can be a synonym for "baffled" as it means to be confused or unable to understand something, making it a suitable answer for the clue.
Biblical garden : EDEN
The answer to "Biblical garden" is "EDEN" because in the Bible, the Garden of Eden is described as the place where Adam and Eve lived before they were expelled.
Biblical garden : EDEN
"EDEN" is the right solution because it is the name of the garden in the Bible where Adam and Eve lived according to the Book of Genesis.
Buffalo’s lake : ERIE
Lake Erie is one of the Great Lakes and Buffalo is a city located on its eastern shore. Therefore, the answer "ERIE" is the correct solution to the clue "Buffalo’s lake."
Buffalo’s lake : ERIE
Lake Erie is one of the Great Lakes and Buffalo is a city located on its eastern shore, making "ERIE" the correct answer for the clue "Buffalo’s lake."
California, for one : STATE Down 1 Salsa, and some salsa moves
The answer "STATE" fits the clue "California, for one" because California is a state in the United States.
Checked out, as a library book : ON LOAN
The answer "ON LOAN" fits the clue because when a library book is checked out, it is temporarily lent to a library patron, making it "ON LOAN" to them.
Chicken serving : LEG
The answer "LEG" fits the clue "Chicken serving" because a chicken leg is a common piece of chicken served as food.
Chocolate treat from Reese’s : PEANUT BUTTER CUP
The answer "PEANUT BUTTER CUP" fits the clue "Chocolate treat from Reese’s" because Reese's is a well-known brand that makes peanut butter cups, which are a popular chocolate treat with a peanut butter filling.
City near Phoenix : MESA
Mesa is a city in Arizona that is located near Phoenix, making it the correct answer to the clue "City near Phoenix."
City near Phoenix : MESA
Mesa is a city in Arizona that is located near Phoenix. It is a common answer in crossword puzzles when looking for a city close to Phoenix.
Civil rights monogram : MLK
The answer "MLK" is the right solution because it is the commonly used monogram for Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent figure in the civil rights movement.
Civil rights monogram : MLK
The answer "MLK" stands for Martin Luther King Jr., a prominent figure in the civil rights movement.
Classic TV show hosted by Rowan & Martin : LAUGH-IN
The answer "LAUGH-IN" fits the clue because "Laugh-In" was a classic TV show from the 1960s and 1970s that was hosted by comedians Rowan & Martin.
Culturally pretentious : ARTY
"Arty" is the right answer because it is a slang term that means someone is trying to be artistic or creative in a way that comes off as pretentious.
Defy authority : REBEL
"Defy authority" is a clue that suggests going against rules or orders. The word "REBEL" means to resist or defy authority, making it the right solution for this clue.
Designer Lauren : RALPH
Ralph is the first name of the designer Lauren, known as Ralph Lauren.
Dwelling : ABODE
"Abode" is a synonym for "dwelling," meaning a place where someone lives. In crossword puzzles, answers are often chosen based on their relevance and fitting the clue, making "abode" a suitable solution for this clue.
Ellipsis element : DOT
The answer "DOT" is the right solution for the clue "Ellipsis element" because an ellipsis is often represented by three dots (...) and each individual dot is called a "DOT".
Ellipsis element : DOT
The ellipsis element "..." is made up of three dots, which are also known as "DOTs." So, "DOT" is the right answer.
Eyelid problem : STYE
"STYE" is the right answer because a stye is a common eyelid problem characterized by a painful red bump caused by a blocked oil gland. It fits the clue well.
First words of “Green Eggs and Ham” : I AM
The first words of the book "Green Eggs and Ham" by Dr. Seuss are "I AM," as the main character says, "I am Sam." This makes "I AM" the correct answer to the clue.
Form a clump : CLOT
"CLOT" can mean to form a clump, as in blood clotting to form a thickened mass.
Genealogy chart : TREE
The answer to "Genealogy chart" is "TREE" because a family tree is a visual representation of a person's ancestors and their relationships, just like a chart.
Genealogy chart : TREE
The answer "TREE" fits the clue "Genealogy chart" because a family tree is a common way to visually represent a person's ancestors and descendants. For the clue "Criticizes harshly," the answer is "RIPS." It fits because "rips" can mean to criticize harshly or tear something apart.
Genealogy chart : TREE
The answer "TREE" is the right solution because a genealogy chart is often represented in the shape of a tree, showing the relationships and ancestry of individuals in a branching structure.
Gets : OBTAINS
The word "obtains" is a synonym for "gets," meaning to acquire or receive something. In crossword puzzles, answers often rely on synonyms to match the clue, making "obtains" a suitable solution.
Ginger __ : ALE
The answer to "Ginger __" is "ALE" because ginger ale is a popular carbonated soft drink that is flavored with ginger.
Ginger __ : ALE
The phrase "Ginger __" commonly refers to a type of carbonated beverage known as "Ginger Ale." So, "ALE" is the correct answer to complete the phrase.
Ginger __ : ALE
The clue "Ginger __" is a common way to hint at the word "ALE" because ginger ale is a popular beverage.
Grammy winner Carey : MARIAH
Mariah Carey is a Grammy-winning singer known for her powerful vocals and hit songs. The clue "Grammy winner Carey" is hinting at Mariah Carey, making "MARIAH" the right answer.
High-level government post, and what the ends of 17-, 25-, and 42- may have? : CABINET POSITION
The ends of the words at 17-, 25-, and 42- form the words "NET POSITION," which is a synonym for "CABINET POSITION," a high-level government post.
Highway sign : GAS
Hit the brakes : STOP
The phrase "hit the brakes" is commonly associated with coming to a stop while driving, making "STOP" the right solution.
Hit the brakes : STOP
The phrase "Hit the brakes" is a common expression that means to stop a vehicle suddenly by pressing the brakes. Therefore, the answer "STOP" fits the clue.
Keyboard blunder : TYPO
"TYPO" is the right solution because a typo is a mistake made while typing on a keyboard, such as hitting the wrong key or making a spelling error.
Killer whale : ORCA
The word "ORCA" is another name for a killer whale.
Killer whale : ORCA
Killer whale : ORCA
"ORCA" is the right solution because it is another term commonly used to refer to a killer whale.
Lab container : VIAL
"FLASK" is the right answer because a flask is a common container used in laboratories to hold and mix chemicals or liquids during experiments.
Lab container : VIAL
"VIAL" is the right solution for "Lab container" because a vial is a small glass or plastic container used to hold liquids, especially in a laboratory setting.
Ladder rung : STEP
The answer "STEP" fits the clue "Ladder rung" because a step is a part of a ladder that you step on while climbing up or down.
Lady Gaga’s instrument : PIANO
Lady Gaga is known for her piano skills and often performs while playing the piano. Therefore, the answer to "Lady Gaga’s instrument" is "PIANO".
Leg joint : KNEE
The answer "KNEE" fits the clue "Leg joint" because the knee is a major joint that connects the thigh bone to the shin bone, allowing for movement and flexibility in the leg.
Leg joint : KNEE
"KNEE" is the right answer because it is a joint in the middle of the leg that allows for bending and straightening of the leg.
Long stories : EPICS
"SAGAS" are long stories or tales, typically about heroic deeds and adventures. In crossword puzzles, "Long stories" is a common clue for the word "SAGAS" because it directly relates to the definition of a saga as a lengthy narrative.
Long stories : EPICS
"EPICS" are long stories that typically involve heroic deeds and adventures. This answer fits the clue "Long stories" perfectly.
Macaroni shape : ELBOW
The answer "ELBOW" is the right solution for "Macaroni shape" because elbow macaroni is a type of pasta that is short and curved, resembling the shape of an elbow.
Many a restaurant owner : CHEF
"Many a restaurant owner" is a clue that is hinting at the occupation of a person who runs a restaurant and is responsible for preparing meals. The most common term for this occupation is "CHEF," making it the right solution for the clue.
Molecule part : ATOM
An atom is the basic unit of a chemical element, making it a fundamental part of a molecule. Therefore, "ATOM" is the correct answer for the clue "Molecule part."
NBC sketch show since 1975, familiarly : SNL
"NBC sketch show since 1975, familiarly" is a common crossword clue for "SNL" because "SNL" stands for "Saturday Night Live," which is a popular sketch comedy show that has been airing on NBC since 1975.
One-named “Chandelier” singer : SIA
SIA is the right answer because the clue mentions "One-named", indicating that the singer is known by just one name, and "Chandelier" is one of Sia's popular songs, making her the most likely answer.
Pampering place : SALON
The answer "SPA" is the right solution for the clue "Pampering place" because a spa is a location where people go to relax, rejuvenate, and receive various beauty and wellness treatments. It is a common place for pampering oneself, making "SPA" the fitting answer.
Pampering place : SALON
"SALON" is the right answer because it is a place where people go to be pampered, such as getting their hair styled, nails done, or receiving other beauty treatments.
Pampering place : SALON
A "spa" is a place where people go to be pampered with massages, facials, and other relaxing treatments. Therefore, "Pampering place" is a fitting clue for the answer "SPA."
Pampering place : SPA
The answer "SPA" is the right solution for the clue "Pampering place" because a spa is a location where people go to relax, rejuvenate, and receive various beauty and wellness treatments. It is a common place for pampering oneself, making "SPA" the fitting answer.
Pampering place : SPA
"SALON" is the right answer because it is a place where people go to be pampered, such as getting their hair styled, nails done, or receiving other beauty treatments.
Pampering place : SPA
A "spa" is a place where people go to be pampered with massages, facials, and other relaxing treatments. Therefore, "Pampering place" is a fitting clue for the answer "SPA."
Partnership for Peace gp. : NATO
NATO stands for North Atlantic Treaty Organization, and the Partnership for Peace program is a NATO initiative aimed at building trust between NATO and other European countries.
Pick up a newspaper : READ
The clue "Pick up a newspaper" is a hint to the action one typically does with a newspaper, which is to **read** it.
Plain : BARE
The word "bare" can mean plain or simple, without anything added. It fits the clue "Plain" as a synonym.
Put one’s foot down : STOMP
"TROD" is the past tense of "tread", which means to step or walk on something. "Put one's foot down" is an idiom that means to assert oneself or take a firm stand, which can be done by literally treading down on the ground.
Put one’s foot down : STOMP
STOMP is the right answer because putting one's foot down can be described as stomping, which means to bring the foot down forcefully.
Put one’s foot down : STOMP
The answer "STEP" fits the clue "Put one’s foot down" because stepping involves putting one's foot down to the ground.
Ready for customers : OPEN
"OPEN" is the right answer because when a business is "OPEN," it means it is ready to serve customers and conduct business transactions.
Replacement on the mound : RELIEF PITCHER
The answer "RELIEF PITCHER" fits the clue "Replacement on the mound" because a relief pitcher is a baseball player who replaces the starting pitcher during a game to continue pitching.
River barriers : DAMS
"DAMS" are structures built across rivers to create a barrier that controls the flow of water. This makes "DAMS" the correct answer for the clue "River barriers."
Shock : STUN
The word "shock" can mean to surprise or startle someone. Similarly, "stun" means to shock or surprise someone to the point of being unable to react. Therefore, "stun" is a suitable answer for the clue "shock".
Shock : STUN
The answer "STUN" fits because "shock" and "stun" are synonyms, both referring to a sudden and intense feeling of surprise or disbelief.
Singer Menzel of “Frozen” : IDINA
Idina Menzel is the singer who provided the voice for Queen Elsa in the Disney movie "Frozen." She also performed the popular song "Let It Go" from the movie. Therefore, the answer "IDINA" fits the clue "Singer Menzel of 'Frozen.'"
Sinks out of sight, as the sun : SETS
The sun sinking out of sight is called a sunset, where it "sets" below the horizon.
Slender woodwinds : OBOES
"OBOES" are slender woodwind instruments, typically made of wood, with a double reed mouthpiece. They are known for their distinctive sound and are commonly used in orchestras and chamber music ensembles.
Solemn bio : OBIT
"OBIT" is short for obituary, which is a solemn biography of a person who has recently died.
Spanish Olympian’s goal : EL ORO
The answer "EL ORO" is Spanish for "the gold," which is the goal of Spanish Olympians - to win a gold medal.
Spring mo. : APR
The abbreviation "mo." is short for month, and "Spring mo." refers to the month in spring. April (APR) is a month in the spring season, making it the correct answer.
Spring mo. : APR
"Spring mo." is a common crossword clue that is asking for an abbreviation of a month in the spring season. In this case, "APR" is the abbreviation for April, which is a month in the spring season.
Storyline : PLOT
"Plot" is the right solution because in a story, the plot refers to the sequence of events that make up the storyline. It is the series of events that drive the narrative forward and create the structure of the story.
Suffix with bug or peek : -ABOO
The suffix "-aboo" can be added to the words "bug" or "peek" to form the new words "bugaboo" and "peekaboo," which are commonly used terms.
Tall birds in some insurance ads : EMUS
EMUS are tall birds often featured in insurance ads, such as the popular ads for an insurance company that uses emus in their marketing campaigns. The clue is hinting at these specific birds, making EMUS the correct answer.
The tops : ACES
The term "the tops" is a colloquial way of referring to something as excellent or outstanding. In card games, "aces" are the highest-ranking cards, making them the best or "tops." So, "ACES" is a fitting answer for "The tops."
Tomato sauce brand named for a New York restaurant : RAO’S
"RAO’S" is the right solution because it is a well-known tomato sauce brand that is named after a famous New York restaurant called Rao's.
Tyke : TOT
The answer to "Tyke" is "TOT" because "tot" is a common term used to refer to a small child or a young person.
Tyke : TOT
The word "tot" is often used informally to refer to a small child or a tyke. It is a common term used to describe young children, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Tyke."
Venue for summer concerts in Los Angeles : HOLLYWOOD BOWL
The Hollywood Bowl is a famous outdoor amphitheater in Los Angeles known for hosting summer concerts, making it a fitting venue for summer concerts in Los Angeles.
Viking language : NORSE
The answer to "Viking language" is "NORSE" because Norse was the language spoken by the Vikings during the Viking Age.
Viking language : NORSE
"NORSE" is the right solution because it refers to the language spoken by the Vikings during the Viking Age in Scandinavia.
Wear away : RUB OFF
The word "erode" means to gradually wear away or break down something, usually by means of water, wind, or other natural agents. Therefore, "erode" is the right solution for the clue "Wear away".
Wear away : RUB OFF
"Erode" means to gradually wear away or diminish through natural processes like wind or water. So, the answer "ERODE" fits the clue "Wear away" because it directly relates to the idea of something slowly breaking down or wearing away over time.
Wear away : RUB OFF
"RUB OFF" is the right solution because it means to wear away gradually through friction or contact, which fits the clue "Wear away."
Women : LADIES
The answer "LADIES" fits the clue "Women" because "LADIES" is a common term used to refer to women in a polite or formal manner.
__ Valuable Player : MOST
The term "Most Valuable Player" is often abbreviated as "MVP," where "Most" is the key word indicating the player who is considered the most valuable in a particular sport or competition.
__ wrench : tool that comes with flatpack furniture
The answer "Allen" fits the clue because an Allen wrench is a tool commonly provided with flatpack furniture for assembly.
“Coming soon” ad : PROMO
The answer "PROMO" fits because a "Coming soon" ad is often a promotional advertisement, which is commonly shortened to "PROMO."
“Dancing Queen” pop group : ABBA
ABBA is the pop group known for the song "Dancing Queen," making it the correct answer to the clue.
“Disgusting!” : GROSS!
The word "ICK!" is a common exclamation used to express disgust, making it the perfect answer for the clue "Disgusting!"
“Disgusting!” : GROSS!
The word "vile" is the right solution because it means extremely unpleasant, disgusting, or morally repulsive. It fits the clue "disgusting" perfectly.
“Disgusting!” : GROSS!
This is the right solution because "GROSS!" is a common exclamation used to express disgust.
“Speak of the __!” : DEVIL
The phrase "Speak of the devil" is a common expression used when someone mentioned in a conversation unexpectedly shows up. In this case, "devil" is the correct answer to complete the phrase.
“Uh, that’s wrong” : UM, NO
The answer "UM, NO" fits the clue "Uh, that's wrong" because "Um" is an interjection expressing hesitation or doubt, and "No" is a direct way of saying something is incorrect. Together, they form a phrase indicating disagreement or correction.