Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 27 February 2025, Thursday. 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.
Actor Epps : OMAR
Omar Epps is an actor known for his roles in movies and TV shows, making "OMAR" the correct answer for the clue "Actor Epps."
Actor Epps : OMAR
Omar Epps is an actor, so "Actor Epps" is a clue pointing to his first name "Omar."
Actor’s alert : CUE
"CUE" is the right answer because in the world of acting, a cue is a signal for an actor to begin speaking or performing a specific action. It is a prompt or direction given to the actor during a performance.
Analyze for purity : ASSAY
The word "assay" means to analyze a substance to determine its purity or quality.
Ancient musicians : LYRISTS
"Lyrists" are ancient musicians who played the lyre, a string instrument commonly used in ancient Greece. The term specifically refers to musicians who composed and performed songs with lyrics, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
Apex predator in the ocean : ORCA
"ORCA" is the right answer because orcas, also known as killer whales, are considered apex predators in the ocean. They are at the top of the food chain and are known for their hunting skills and ability to take down large prey.
Attack vigorously : ASSAIL
"Assail" means to attack vigorously or to criticize strongly. In this case, the clue "Attack vigorously" is a direct definition clue that perfectly matches the answer "ASSAIL."
Awards acronym : EGOT
EGOT stands for Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony - the four major entertainment awards. Winning all four awards is a rare achievement in show business.
Bandleader Puente : TITO
The answer to "Bandleader Puente" is "TITO" because Tito Puente was a famous bandleader known for his contributions to Latin music.
Bandleader Puente : TITO
Tito Puente was a famous bandleader known for his contributions to Latin music, making "TITO" the correct answer.
Beat on eBay : OUTBID
The answer "OUTBID" fits because it means to surpass someone's bid in an auction, which is what you do to beat someone on eBay.
Bio or chem : SCI
"Bio. or chem." are abbreviations for biology and chemistry, both of which are branches of science. Therefore, the answer "SCI" is appropriate as it is the abbreviation for science.
Bio or chem : SCI
"Bio" and "chem" are abbreviations for "biology" and "chemistry," which are both branches of science. Therefore, the answer "SCI" is short for "science," encompassing both biology and chemistry.
Blizzards, e.g. : STORMS
The answer "STORMS" fits the clue "Blizzards, e.g." because blizzards are a type of storm characterized by strong winds and heavy snowfall.
Calico’s outdoor enclosure : CATIO
"Catio" is a portmanteau of "cat" and "patio," referring to an outdoor enclosure specifically designed for cats. It is a common term used to describe a safe and enclosed outdoor space for cats to enjoy the outdoors while remaining protected.
Chess grand master Krush : IRINA
Irina Krush is a well-known chess grandmaster, making "IRINA" the correct answer to the clue.
Chimp aboard a rocket, say : SPACE MONKEY
The answer "SPACE MONKEY" fits because it refers to a chimpanzee sent into space by NASA in the 1950s and 1960s. These chimps were often called "space monkeys" in popular culture.
Concave navel : INNIE
The term "innie" is commonly used to describe a concave navel, where the belly button is indented or curved inwards. It is the opposite of an "outie," where the belly button protrudes outwards.
Copies made with see-through sheets : TRACINGS
The answer "TRACINGS" fits because when you make copies using see-through sheets, you are likely creating tracings of the original image or text.
Damp at dawn : DEWY
"Damp at dawn" is a clue that indicates a condition of moisture in the morning. The word "dewy" specifically describes something covered in dew, which is moisture that forms on surfaces overnight. Therefore, "dewy" is the right solution for this clue.
Didn’t rush : TOOK IT SLOW
"Didn’t rush" is another way to say "took it slow", meaning to proceed at a relaxed or unhurried pace. This answer fits the clue perfectly.
Dutch painter Frans : HALS
Frans Hals was a famous Dutch painter known for his portraits, making "HALS" the correct answer.
Eccentric : DOTTY
"Dotty" is a synonym for eccentric, meaning someone who is slightly strange or unconventional in their behavior or thoughts. It fits the clue well.
Eccentric : DOTTY
"Dotty" is a synonym for eccentric, meaning someone who is a bit odd or unconventional in their behavior or thoughts.
Entertainment systems sold with controllers : GAME CONSOLES
The answer "GAME CONSOLES" fits because game consoles are entertainment systems that are typically sold with controllers for playing video games.
Evasive : CAGY
The word "CAGY" means cautious and secretive, which can be seen as evasive behavior.
Eyewear, informally : SPECS
The answer "SPECS" is a common informal term for eyewear, short for "spectacles."
Flock sound : BAA!
"BAA!" is the sound that a flock of sheep makes. In crossword puzzles, "Flock sound" is a common clue for the answer "BAA!" because it is a well-known sound associated with a group of sheep.
Free speech advocacy gp. : ACLU
The answer "ACLU" is the right solution because the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) is a well-known organization that advocates for free speech rights in the United States.
Furrow maker : HOE
The answer "HOE" is the right solution because a hoe is a gardening tool used to make furrows in the soil for planting seeds.
Fuzzy pollinators : BUMBLEBEES
Bumblebees are fuzzy insects that are known to pollinate flowers, making them the perfect fit for the clue "Fuzzy pollinators."
Garage employee : AUTO MECHANIC
The answer "AUTO MECHANIC" fits the clue "Garage employee" because an auto mechanic is a person who repairs and maintains vehicles, typically working in a garage.
Gift for writing? : PEN SET
The answer "PEN SET" fits the clue "Gift for writing?" because a pen set is a common gift that includes multiple pens or writing instruments, making it a suitable present for someone who enjoys writing.
Goose Island brew, for short : IPA
The answer "IPA" stands for India Pale Ale, which is a type of beer brewed by Goose Island Brewery.
Grafton’s “__ for Malice” : M IS
The answer "M IS" fits the clue because the author Sue Grafton wrote a mystery novel titled "M is for Malice" as part of her alphabet series featuring detective Kinsey Millhone.
Guadalajara gold : ORO
"Guadalajara" is a city in Mexico, and "oro" is the Spanish word for gold. Therefore, the answer "ORO" fits the clue "Guadalajara gold" as it refers to the city's association with gold.
Hall & Oates soul ballad : SHE’S GONE
The answer "SHE'S GONE" fits the clue "Hall & Oates soul ballad" because it is a well-known song by the musical duo Hall & Oates, and it is classified as a soul ballad due to its emotional and soulful style.
Hearty laugh : YUK
The answer "YUK" is a representation of a hearty laugh in the form of an onomatopoeia. It is commonly used to express amusement or disgust, making it a suitable answer for the clue "Hearty laugh."
Hit show letters : SRO
"SRO" stands for "Standing Room Only," which is often used to indicate a sold-out performance at a theater or venue. So, "SRO" is the correct answer for "Hit show letters" as it refers to a successful and popular show.
Imitation flakes in a clear globe : SNOW
The answer "SNOW" fits the clue because imitation flakes in a clear globe are often used to represent snow in snow globes.
Intl. crude cartel : OPEC
OPEC stands for the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries, which is an international cartel of oil-producing nations. They work together to regulate oil production and prices, making them the correct answer for "Intl. crude cartel."
Kinks hit about the local palais, and what can be found in the answers to the starred clues? : COME DANCING
The answer "COME DANCING" is the title of a hit song by The Kinks, which mentions a local palais in the lyrics. The starred clues in the crossword likely contain dance-related words or phrases, making "COME DANCING" the appropriate answer.
Knack : TALENT
The word "flair" means a natural talent or skill, which can be synonymous with "knack." Therefore, "flair" is a suitable answer for the crossword clue "knack."
Knack : TALENT
The word "knack" refers to a special talent or skill that someone possesses. Similarly, a "gift" can be seen as a natural ability or aptitude. Therefore, "gift" is the right solution for the clue "knack."
Knack : TALENT
"Knack" and "talent" are synonymous, both referring to a natural skill or ability to do something well. In this case, "talent" fits the clue as it aligns with the meaning of "knack."
Legal dept. staffer : ATTY
"ATTY" is a common abbreviation for attorney, which is a legal department staffer who provides legal advice and representation.
Luxury hotel chain : OMNI
"OMNI" is a luxury hotel chain known for its upscale accommodations and amenities. It fits the clue "Luxury hotel chain" perfectly.
Music producer Gotti : IRV
"Irv" is the nickname of music producer Irv Gotti, known for his work with artists like Ja Rule and Ashanti.
NPR host Flatow : IRA
"Ira" is the first name of Ira Flatow, who is a well-known host of the NPR radio program "Science Friday."
Nuts in a chipmunk’s hoard : ACORNS
The answer "ACORNS" fits the clue because acorns are commonly stored by chipmunks as part of their hoard or food supply for the winter.
Oohed and __ : AAHED
The phrase "Oohed and __" indicates a sound of admiration or amazement. The word "AAHED" is a variation of "aah" which is a common expression of awe or wonder, making it the right solution.
Pet adoption org. : SPCA
The answer "SPCA" is the right solution because it stands for "Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals," which is a well-known pet adoption organization.
Pet adoption org. : SPCA
The answer "SPCA" stands for Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which is a common organization that helps with pet adoptions.
Pet adoption org. : SPCA
The answer "SPCA" stands for Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, which is a common organization involved in pet adoption and animal welfare.
Pink pencil parts : ERASERS
The answer "ERASERS" fits the clue "Pink pencil parts" because erasers are commonly found on the end of pencils and are often pink in color.
Prepare to start a hole : TEE UP
The answer "TEE UP" is the right solution because in golf, players prepare to start a hole by placing the ball on a small peg called a tee before hitting it with a club. "TEE UP" refers to this action of preparing to start a hole in golf.
Put on the right track : ORIENT
"Put on the right track" is a clue that suggests orienting or aligning something in the correct direction. The word "Orient" means to align or position something correctly, making it the right answer for this clue.
Rock climber’s line : ROPE
The answer to "Rock climber's line" is "ROPE" because rock climbers use ropes to secure themselves while climbing. The rope is an essential tool for their safety and stability.
Rock climber’s line : ROPE
The answer "ROPE" fits the clue "Rock climber’s line" because rock climbers use a rope as a safety line to secure themselves while climbing.
Sacred Egyptian bird : IBIS
The sacred Egyptian bird associated with Thoth, the god of writing and wisdom, is the ibis. The ibis was revered in ancient Egypt for its connection to knowledge and the afterlife.
SAT section : MATH
The SAT is a standardized test that includes a section specifically for math skills, making "MATH" the correct answer for this clue.
Show to a seat, slangily : USH
"USH" is the right solution because it is a slang term for an usher, someone who shows people to their seats at an event or venue.
Slam __ : DUNK
The phrase "Slam __" commonly refers to a basketball move known as a "slam dunk," where a player forcefully puts the ball through the hoop. Therefore, the correct answer is "DUNK."
Slides after braking : SKIDS
The answer "SKIDS" fits the clue "Slides after braking" because skidding occurs when a vehicle loses traction while braking, causing it to slide uncontrollably.
Spanish folk hero : EL CID
El Cid is a Spanish folk hero and legendary figure known for his military exploits in medieval Spain. He is a popular figure in Spanish literature and history, making him the appropriate answer for the clue "Spanish folk hero."
Spanish folk hero : EL CID
EL CID is a Spanish folk hero known for his role in the Reconquista, the reconquest of Spain from the Moors. His real name was Rodrigo Díaz de Vivar. He is a legendary figure in Spanish history and literature, making him the correct answer to the clue "Spanish folk hero."
Storage area in a dashboard : GLOVE COMPARTMENT
The storage area in a dashboard is commonly referred to as a "glove compartment" because it is traditionally used to store items like gloves and other small personal belongings.
Track with malware, say : SPY ON
The answer "SPY ON" fits the clue "Track with malware, say" because "SPY ON" means monitoring or observing someone secretly, which is what malware can do on a computer.
TV hosts : MCS
unknown
Univ. near Harvard : MIT
MIT stands for the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, which is a university located near Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
Univ. senior’s test : GRE
The GRE is a standardized test taken by university seniors for graduate school admissions.
Very soon now : ANY DAY
The answer "ANY DAY" fits the clue "Very soon now" because it implies that something is expected to happen imminently, without specifying a specific date. It suggests that the event could occur at any time in the near future.
Walk of Fame symbol : STAR
The Walk of Fame symbol is a star because stars are used to represent celebrities who have been honored with a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame.
Warm and comfy : TOASTY
The word "toasty" is often used to describe something that is warm and comfortable, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Warm and comfy."
Water bill statistic : USAGE
The term "USAGE" refers to the amount of water consumed, which is a common statistic found on a water bill.
Worthless stuff : DROSS
"DROSS" refers to waste or worthless material, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Worthless stuff."
Zing : OOMPH
"Zing" is a term often used to describe energy or vigor. The word "OOMPH" is a slang term that means energy or power, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Zing."
__ culpa : MEA
The term "__ culpa" is a Latin phrase meaning "my fault." In Latin, "mea" is the possessive form of "me," making it the correct answer to complete the phrase.
__ culpa : MEA
The Latin phrase "__ culpa" translates to "my fault" in English. "Mea" is the Latin word for "my", making it the correct answer.
__ David : CAMP
The answer "CAMP" fits the clue "__ David" because "Camp David" is the name of the presidential retreat in Maryland, USA.
“Beat it!” : SCAT!
The answer "SHOO!" is the right solution for the clue "Beat it!" because "shoo" is a common word used to shoo away or drive away someone or something.
“Beat it!” : SCAT!
"Vamoose" is a slang term meaning "to leave quickly" or "to go away." So, "Beat it!" and "Vamoose!" are both commands telling someone to leave or go away.
“Beat it!” : SCAT!
The clue "Beat it!" is a command to go away or leave quickly. "Scat" is a slang term meaning to go away or leave, making it the right solution for the clue.
“Later, __!” : GATOR
The phrase "Later, alligator!" is a common saying, so "GATOR" is the fitting word to complete it.
“OMG, no more details!” : TMI!
The answer "TMI" stands for "too much information," which is a common response when someone shares more details than necessary. In this context, "OMG, no more details!" is a way of saying "TMI," making it the correct solution.
“Pushing Daisies” actress Friel : ANNA
Anna Friel is a British actress known for her role in the TV show "Pushing Daisies." Therefore, the answer to the clue "“Pushing Daisies” actress Friel" is "ANNA" as it refers to Anna Friel.
“Same here!” : I DO TOO!
“Same here!” : I DO TOO!
The clue is asking for a response that means "I feel the same way." "As am I" is a correct and concise way to express this sentiment.
“Same here!” : I DO TOO!
“Same here!” : I DO TOO!
The phrase "Same here" indicates agreement or similarity with a previous statement. "So am I" is a common response that shows agreement or similarity with the other person, making it the right solution.
“Same here!” : I DO TOO!
The phrase "Me too!" is a common response to indicate agreement or similarity with something that has been said. In the context of the clue "Same here!", "Me too!" is a fitting and colloquial response, making it the right solution.
“Same here!” : I DO TOO!
"DITTO" is often used to mean "the same" or "likewise". So, when someone says "Same here", responding with "DITTO" is a way to convey that you feel the same way or have had the same experience.
“Same here!” : I DO TOO!
The answer "SO DO I!" is the right solution because it is a common phrase used to express agreement with a statement or feeling that someone else has expressed.
“Same here!” : I DO TOO!
"Same here" is a phrase used to express agreement with a previous statement. "So do I" is a common response indicating that the speaker feels the same way or has had a similar experience.
“Same here!” : I DO TOO!
"DITTO" is a common informal way to say "same here" or "likewise," making it the right solution for the clue. It succinctly conveys agreement or similarity in a casual manner.
“Same here!” : I DO TOO!
The answer "I DO TOO!" is a common informal way of expressing agreement or similarity with someone else's statement, making it a fitting response to "Same here!" in casual conversation.
“Tell Mama” singer James : ETTA
The answer is "ETTA" because Etta James was a famous singer known for the song "Tell Mama."
“Tell Mama” singer James : ETTA
Etta James was an American singer known for the song "Tell Mama," making "ETTA" the correct answer for the clue.
“The Addams Family” cousin : ITT
The Addams Family cousin is a hairy creature named Itt. The answer "ITT" matches the description of the cousin.
“The Addams Family” cousin : ITT
The answer "ITT" is the right solution because ITT is the name of the disembodied hand servant in "The Addams Family" TV show.
“Yikes!” : EEK!
"Yikes!" is an exclamation used to express surprise or alarm. Similarly, "EEK" is an exclamation used to express surprise, fear, or disgust, making it a suitable answer for the clue.
“Yikes!” : EEK!
"Yikes!" is an exclamation of surprise or alarm, and "ACK!" is a similar exclamation used to express disgust or dismay. Both words convey a sense of strong emotion, making "ACK!" an appropriate answer to the clue.
“Yikes!” : EEK!
The answer "EGAD!" is the right solution to the clue "Yikes!" because it is an interjection used to express surprise or shock.
“Yikes!” : EEK!
"OOF" is often used to express dismay or discomfort, similar to "Yikes." It is a common informal expression in online communication and fits the tone of the clue.
“Yikes!” : EEK!
“Yikes!” : EEK!
"OH GOD!" is a common expression used to convey surprise or shock, similar to "Yikes!" It is a fitting answer to the clue "“Yikes!”" in a crossword puzzle.
“Yikes!” : EEK!
The answer "EEK!" is often used to express surprise or fear, similar to the exclamation "Yikes!" This makes it the right solution for the clue.