Here's all LA Times Crossword answers for 26 June 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.
Agitated state : SNIT
"SNIT" is a term used to describe a state of agitation or annoyance, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Agitated state."
Año start : ENERO
"Ano start" is a clue asking for the beginning of a year in Spanish. The answer "ENERO" is the Spanish word for January, which is the first month of the year.
Birds associated with wisdom : OWLS
Owls are commonly associated with wisdom in various cultures and folklore due to their perceived intelligence and ability to see in the dark.
Bldg. units : APTS
The abbreviation "Bldg." stands for building, and "units" refers to individual living spaces within a building. Therefore, the answer "APTS" is a common abbreviation for "apartments," which are individual living units within a building.
Blended juice prefix : CRAN-
The prefix "CRAN-" is commonly used to refer to cranberry juice in the context of blended juices.
Board head : CHAIR
The term "Board head" refers to the person who leads or presides over a board meeting, and this person is typically seated in a chair at the head of the table. Therefore, the answer "CHAIR" fits the clue.
Capital on the Red River : HANOI
HANOI is the capital city of Vietnam, which is located on the Red River.
Change studied by evolutionary biologists, or what can be found in the answer to each starred clue? : GENETIC MUTATION
The answer "GENETIC MUTATION" fits because it is a type of change studied by evolutionary biologists, and each starred clue contains a word that can be formed by changing a single letter in the corresponding answer.
Consumer Reports task : ROAD TEST
"Consumer Reports" often conducts evaluations by driving vehicles to assess their performance and safety. This evaluation process is commonly known as a "road test."
Contract negotiator : AGENT Down 1 Some park workers
The answer "AGENT" fits the clue "Contract negotiator" because an agent is someone who represents and negotiates on behalf of another party, such as in the entertainment industry or real estate.
Decimal value of hexadecimal A : TEN
The hexadecimal value A is equal to the decimal value 10. Therefore, the answer to the clue is "TEN."
Diving bird : LOON
The answer "LOON" fits the clue "diving bird" because loons are birds known for their diving abilities to catch fish underwater.
Diving bird : LOON
The answer "LOON" is correct because a loon is a type of bird known for its diving ability and its distinctive call.
Dressed to the __ : NINES
The phrase "Dressed to the nines" means to be dressed in a stylish or extravagant manner. The word "nines" is used to emphasize being dressed impeccably, as it is a high numerical value. Therefore, "NINES" is the right answer to the clue.
Dressed to the __ : NINES
The phrase "Dressed to the nines" means dressed very elegantly or stylishly. "To the nines" is an idiom meaning "to perfection" or "to the highest degree."
Dressed to the __ : NINES
The phrase "Dressed to the nines" means being dressed very elegantly or stylishly. The term "to the nines" is an idiom meaning "to perfection" or "to the highest degree."
Drop : OMIT
The word "omit" means to leave out or exclude something, which can be seen as dropping it from a list or a sentence. Therefore, "omit" is the correct answer for the clue "drop".
Drop : OMIT
"Drop" can mean to omit or leave out something. In this case, "OMIT" is the right answer because it fits the definition of leaving something out.
Echo assistant : ALEXA
"ALEXA" is the right solution because it is a popular virtual assistant developed by Amazon that responds to voice commands and can provide information, play music, control smart home devices, and more.
Ellipsis alternative : Abbr.
The clue "Ellipsis alternative" is looking for an abbreviation that can be used in place of an ellipsis. In this case, "Abbr." is the correct answer as it is an abbreviation for the word "abbreviation."
Emcee’s piece : INTRO
The answer "INTRO" is the right solution because an emcee typically starts a performance or event with an introduction, which is often abbreviated as "INTRO."
Epiphany cry : AHA!
The answer "AHA!" fits the clue "Epiphany cry" because "AHA!" is commonly used to express a sudden realization or understanding, which is often referred to as an epiphany.
Erie Canal city : UTICA
The answer is "UTICA" because it is a city located along the Erie Canal in New York state.
Erie Canal city : UTICA
The Erie Canal city known as "UTICA" is a city in New York that is located along the Erie Canal route. It is a well-known city that is often associated with the Erie Canal, making it the correct answer to the clue.
Expected results : NORMS
The word "NORMS" refers to the standard or expected results in a given situation. It fits the clue "Expected results" as it represents what is considered typical or usual.
Female gamete : OVUM
"OVUM" is the female gamete because it is the egg cell released by the ovaries during ovulation for fertilization by a sperm cell.
First hip-hop group to have music videos on MTV : RUN-DMC
"RUN-DMC" was the first hip-hop group to have music videos in heavy rotation on MTV in the 1980s, helping to bring hip-hop to a wider audience and popularizing the genre.
Garden sentinel : GNOME
A gnome is a small figurine often placed in gardens as a decoration or sentinel, making it the right answer for the clue "Garden sentinel."
Garr of “Young Frankenstein” : TERI
unknown
Gave a thumbs-down : VOTED NAY
The phrase "VOTED NO" means to give a negative response or disapproval, which is similar to giving a thumbs-down gesture.
Gave a thumbs-down : VOTED NAY
"VOTED NAY" means to vote against something, which is similar to giving a thumbs-down in a voting situation.
Go ahead : LEAD
"Nod" can mean a signal of approval or permission to proceed, which can be interpreted as a "go-ahead".
Go ahead : LEAD
The answer "A-OK" is the right solution because it is a common phrase used to indicate permission or approval to proceed.
Go ahead : LEAD
The word "ascent" means approval or agreement, which is similar to the idea of a go-ahead.
Go ahead : LEAD
"NOD" is the right solution because a "nod" can be a sign of approval or permission, which can be seen as a form of go-ahead.
Go ahead : LEAD
The word "lead" can mean to go ahead or be in front, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Go ahead."
Google Books __ Viewer : tool that tracks word usage frequency
The answer is "Ngram." In Google Books Ngram Viewer, users can track the frequency of specific words or phrases in books over time. This tool helps analyze language usage trends and patterns.
Group taken for a drive? : HERD
The clue "Group taken for a drive?" is a play on words that suggests the group is not people, but animals like a herd of cattle or sheep that are taken for a drive by a farmer or shepherd. Therefore, the answer "HERD" fits the clue.
Hand-tightened fasteners : WING NUTS
The answer "WING NUTS" fits the clue "Hand-tightened fasteners" because wing nuts are fasteners that can be easily tightened or loosened by hand without the need for tools, thanks to the wing-like projections on the nut for easy gripping.
Have something : EAT
"EAT" is the right solution because when you "have something," you can consume it by eating it.
Hawaiian coffee region : KONA
Kona is a region in Hawaii known for producing high-quality coffee due to its ideal climate and rich volcanic soil. The word "Kona" fits the clue "Hawaiian coffee region" perfectly.
Hippie event : BE-IN
"BE-IN" is the right solution because a Be-In was a gathering associated with the hippie counterculture movement of the 1960s, where people would come together to celebrate peace, love, and unity.
Indirect route : DETOUR
"DETOUR" is the right answer because it refers to taking a longer or alternative route to reach a destination when the usual path is blocked or unavailable.
Like some expectations : UNMET
The answer "UNMET" fits the clue "Like some expectations" because when expectations are unmet, they have not been fulfilled or realized as anticipated.
Lines that cross at (0,0) : AXES
The lines that cross at (0,0) on a graph are the X and Y axes. The X axis is the horizontal line and the Y axis is the vertical line, intersecting at the origin (0,0). So, "AXES" is the correct answer.
Location label : GEOTAG
"GEOTAG" is the right solution because it is a label that identifies a specific location by attaching geographic information to a digital media, such as a photo or a post on social media.
Lope or canter : GAIT
"Gait" refers to a particular way of moving, such as walking, trotting, lope, or canter. In this case, "lope or canter" are both types of gaits, making "GAIT" the correct answer.
Mushroom that drips black liquid : INKCAP
The mushroom that drips black liquid is commonly known as the "inkcap" because it releases a black, inky substance as it matures and begins to decompose. This characteristic is unique to inkcap mushrooms, making it the correct answer to the clue.
No longer here : GONE
The answer "GONE" fits the clue "No longer here" because it means something or someone has departed or is not present anymore.
Perfume application : MIST
The answer "MIST" is the right solution because mist is a fine spray of liquid, often used to apply perfume lightly on the body.
Pinned distinction : MEDAL
The word "medal" can refer to an award or distinction that is often pinned onto clothing or worn around the neck.
Place of monumental achievement? : ANCIENT EGYPT
"ANCIENT EGYPT" is the right solution because Ancient Egypt is known for its monumental achievements such as the construction of the pyramids, the invention of hieroglyphics, and advancements in mathematics and architecture. The clue hints at a place known for significant accomplishments, making Ancient Egypt a fitting answer.
Poppin’ : LIT
The word "lit" is often used informally to describe something exciting or fun, which fits the clue "Poppin'" well as both can mean something that is happening in an exciting or lively way.
Product that gets pressed into service? : WINE
The answer "WINE" works because wine is a product that is often pressed from grapes during the winemaking process. The wordplay in the clue hints at the pressing of grapes to make wine.
Shoemaker’s form : LAST
The term "last" refers to a shoemaker's form or mold that is used to shape and construct shoes.
Showy flower, briefly : GLAD
"Showy flower, briefly" is a clue that is asking for a flower that is known for its bright and colorful appearance. The answer "GLAD" is short for "gladiolus," which is a showy flower with vibrant blooms, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
Sky streakers : METEORS
"Meteors" are often referred to as "sky streakers" because they are fast-moving celestial objects that produce bright streaks of light as they enter Earth's atmosphere.
Sleep aid of folklore : SANDMAN
The Sandman is a mythical character in folklore who is said to bring sleep and dreams to children by sprinkling sand in their eyes at night. This makes "SANDMAN" the correct answer for the clue "Sleep aid of folklore."
Slight progress : DENT
The word "DENT" can mean a slight hollow or depression, which can be interpreted as a metaphor for slight progress or advancement.
Slip into : DON
"Slip into" is a phrase often used to describe putting on clothing or items easily and quickly. "Put on" is a common synonym for this action, making it the right solution for the clue.
Slip into : DON
The word "ease" can mean to slip into something smoothly or without difficulty, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Slip (into)."
Slip into : DON
unknown
Special occasion mailing : GREETING CARD
The answer "GREETING CARD" fits the clue "Special occasion mailing" because a greeting card is typically sent to convey good wishes or sentiments for a specific event or celebration. It is a common form of communication for special occasions like birthdays, holidays, or other important events.
Staff member? : NOTE
"Staff member?" is a play on words where "staff" can refer to a group of employees or the musical staff. In this case, "note" is a member of the musical staff, making it the correct answer.
Storage tower : SILO
The answer "SILO" is a storage tower commonly used for storing grain or other agricultural products. It fits the clue "Storage tower" perfectly.
Storage tower : SILO
"Silo" is the right answer because a silo is a tall storage tower typically used for storing grain or silage on a farm.
Straddling : ATOP
The word "atop" means to be positioned on top of something, which is another way of saying straddling.
Summer ermine : STOAT
The summer ermine is another name for the stoat, a small mammal.
Summer ermine : STOAT
The summer ermine is another name for a stoat, which is a type of weasel known for its white fur in winter and brown fur in summer.
Technical team supervisor : PROJECT ENGINEER
The answer "PROJECT ENGINEER" fits the clue "Technical team supervisor" because a project engineer is responsible for overseeing and managing technical teams to ensure projects are completed successfully.
Texter’s gasp : OMG!
"OMG" is a common abbreviation for "Oh my God," which is a common expression of surprise or disbelief often used by texters.
The 411 : INFO
The term "411" is often used to refer to information or details. "Deets" is a slang abbreviation for "details," so it is the right answer that fits the clue.
The 411 : INFO
The term "The 411" is slang for information or news. "INFO" is a commonly used abbreviation for information, making it the correct answer to the clue.
The 411 : INFO
The term "The 411" is slang for information or news. "INFO" is a common abbreviation for information, making it the right answer for this clue.
Top-tier : ELITE
The term "top-tier" refers to something of the highest quality or ranking. In this case, "CLASS-A" is the right answer because it signifies the highest or best level, often used to describe top-tier products, services, or individuals.
Top-tier : ELITE
Top-tier : ELITE
"Elite" means belonging to a select group that is superior in terms of ability or qualities. In this context, "top-tier" is synonymous with "elite," referring to something or someone that is of the highest quality or rank.
Top-tier : ELITE
"A-ONE" is a common phrase used to describe something of the highest quality or top tier. It is often used to indicate excellence or superiority.
Top-tier : ELITE
"Top-tier" is a phrase often used to describe something or someone that is of the highest quality or rank. "Elite" is synonymous with top-tier, as it refers to a select group that is superior in terms of ability, wealth, or status.
True, in Italian : VERO
"True" in Italian is "vero" because "vero" is the Italian word for "true." In crossword puzzles, it's common to see clues that ask for translations of words in different languages.
Watched an entire season of, say : BINGED ON
"Binged on" is the right solution because it accurately describes the act of watching multiple episodes of a TV show in a single sitting or over a short period of time, which is commonly referred to as "binge-watching."
Wheedle : CAJOLE
"Cajole" is a synonym of "wheedle," both meaning to persuade someone through flattery or coaxing. In crossword puzzles, answers are often chosen based on their similarity in meaning to the clue, making "cajole" the correct solution here.
Widespread : RIFE
The word "rife" means abundant or prevalent, which is synonymous with the word "widespread." Therefore, "rife" is the correct answer to the clue "widespread."
Widespread : RIFE
The word "RIFE" means abundant or widespread, making it the correct answer for the clue "Widespread."
Widespread : RIFE
The word "rife" means abundant or widespread, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Widespread."
__ positivity : BODY
The term "body positivity" refers to the social movement advocating for the acceptance and appreciation of all body types. Therefore, the answer "BODY" fits the clue "__ positivity" as it directly relates to the concept of embracing and loving one's body.
“Hometown Proud” food market chain : IGA
IGA is a well-known food market chain that is often found in hometowns across the United States and other countries. The clue "Hometown Proud" suggests a local or community-focused store, making IGA a fitting answer.
“Love Story” novelist : SEGAL
"SEGAL" is the right solution because the author of the novel "Love Story" is Erich Segal.
“L’__, c’est moi” : Louis XIV
Louis XIV famously said "L'État, c'est moi," which translates to "I am the state." Louis XIV was a French king known for his absolute power and control over the state.
“Sorry to say … ” : I FEAR …
The phrase "Sorry to say ..." is often used to introduce bad news or unfortunate information. The word "ALAS" is an interjection that expresses sorrow, regret, or disappointment, making it a fitting answer for the clue.
“Sorry to say … ” : I FEAR …
The answer "I FEAR ..." fits the clue "Sorry to say ..." because it implies a sense of regret or concern when delivering bad news or unwelcome information.
“Survivor” find : IDOL
The answer "IDOL" fits because contestants on the TV show "Survivor" often search for hidden immunity idols to protect themselves in the game.
“That smarts!” : YOW!
The answer "YOW!" is often used to express sudden pain or surprise, making it a fitting response to the clue "That smarts!" as it conveys a similar sentiment.
“Tough” : TOO BAD
The answer to "Tough" is "HARD" because "hard" is a synonym for tough.