Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 26 January 2025, Sunday (01-26-25). 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.
A perfect storm, e.g. : IDIOM
The phrase "perfect storm" is an idiom, which means it is a commonly used expression with a figurative meaning different from its literal meaning. Therefore, the answer to the clue "A perfect storm, e.g." is "IDIOM."
Aid for using Bluetooth : EAR CLIP
The answer "EAR CLIP" is the right solution because an ear clip is a device that helps to secure a Bluetooth earpiece in place while in use.
Annual observance for breast cancer awareness : NO BRA DAY
This answer is correct because "No Bra Day" is an annual observance on October 13 to raise awareness for breast cancer. It encourages women to forgo wearing a bra to show support for those affected by the disease.
Approaches furtively : STEALS UP ON
The answer "STEALS UP ON" fits the clue "Approaches furtively" because "steals" implies moving quietly and without being noticed, while "up on" suggests getting closer to something or someone in a sneaky manner.
Audiophile’s system : STEREO SET
The answer "STEREO SET" is correct because an audiophile typically uses a stereo set, which includes speakers and audio equipment, to listen to high-quality music.
Auto mechanic’s tool : OIL GUN
Awkward people to butt-dial, perhaps : EXES
The answer "EXES" fits the clue because exes are people from one's past who it would be awkward to accidentally call, or "butt-dial."
B + tray : BETRAY
The word "B" followed by "tray" gives us the word "BETRAY," which means to be disloyal or deceive someone.
Became one : WED
"Wed" is the right answer because when two people get married, they become one in a legal and symbolic union.
Bit : TAD
"TAD" is a synonym for "bit" meaning a small amount or quantity of something.
Cause of puddles in early spring, say : THAW
The answer "THAW" fits because in early spring, the warming temperatures cause the snow and ice to melt, leading to puddles forming on the ground.
Cause of some sleep issues : APNEA
"APNEA" is the right answer because it is a common medical condition where a person stops breathing during sleep, leading to disrupted sleep patterns and potential health issues.
Channel with the onetime spinoff America’s Store : HSN
The answer "HSN" fits because it is a TV shopping channel that used to have a spinoff called America's Store.
Circuit board device : DIODE
A diode is a common electronic component found on a circuit board that allows current to flow in only one direction. This fits the description of a "circuit board device" because diodes are essential for controlling the flow of electricity in electronic circuits.
Cognizant of : ONTO
Comedian Radner : GILDA
Gilda Radner was a well-known comedian, actress, and one of the original cast members of Saturday Night Live. Therefore, the answer "GILDA" fits the clue "Comedian Radner" as it directly refers to her first name.
Common word with or without an apostrophe : WE’RE or WERE
The clue is referring to a word that can be spelled with or without an apostrophe, which changes its meaning. "WE'RE" is a contraction for "we are" with an apostrophe, while "WERE" is the past tense of "are" without an apostrophe. Both words fit the clue.
Credit, informally : PROPS
The answer "PROPS" is a slang term for giving someone credit or recognition for something. In this context, "Credit, informally" is a clue hinting at a casual term for giving someone props, making "PROPS" the correct answer.
Cut (off) : LOP
"Cut off" is a phrasal verb that means to remove a part of something. "Shorn" is the past participle of "shear," which means to cut off the wool, hair, or fur of an animal or person. Therefore, "shorn" is a suitable answer for "cut off."
Diddly-squat : ZERO
"NADA" is a slang term meaning "nothing" in Spanish. "Diddly-squat" is another way of saying "nothing," making "NADA" a fitting answer.
Done : OVER
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."
Dude : BRO
The answer "BRO" is the right solution for the clue "Dude" because "BRO" is a colloquial term often used to refer to a male friend or acquaintance.
E + mitt : EMIT
The answer "EMIT" combines the letter "E" with the word "mitt" to form a new word that means to send out or give off.
E + road : ERODE
The answer to "E + road" is "ERODE" because when you add "E" to "road," you get the word "ERODE," which means to gradually wear away.
E + spy : ESPY
The answer "ESPY" is formed by combining the letter "E" with the word "spy," resulting in a new word that fits the clue.
Extend one’s military service : RE-UP
"Re-up" is a slang term for reenlisting in the military, which means to extend one's military service.
Fair-hiring letters : EEO
"EEO" stands for Equal Employment Opportunity, which are letters commonly associated with fair hiring practices in the workplace.
Feel bad : AIL
"Ail" is a verb that means to cause pain, discomfort, or trouble. Therefore, "feel bad" can be synonymous with "ail".
Flirt with : HIT ON
"HIT ON" is the right solution because it means to flirt with someone in a suggestive or forward manner. The phrase "hit on" is commonly used to describe someone showing romantic interest in another person.
Folk singer Guthrie : ARLO
The answer to "Folk singer Guthrie" is "ARLO" because Arlo Guthrie is a well-known folk singer, making it the correct solution.
French aperitif : KIR
The French aperitif "Kir" is made by mixing white wine with a fruit liqueur, usually blackcurrant. It is named after Félix Kir, a mayor of Dijon, France, who popularized the drink.
Frozen treat with a domed lid : ICEE
The answer "ICEE" fits because ICEE is a popular frozen treat that is often served in a cup with a domed lid to prevent spills.
Futon component : SLAT
SLAT is the right answer because a futon typically has a slatted frame that holds the mattress. The slats provide support and ventilation for the mattress.
Give a darn? : SEW
The word "care" can mean to give a darn or to be concerned about something. In this context, it fits the clue perfectly.
Glass ___, spaghettilike fish : EEL
The glass eel is a transparent, spaghetti-like juvenile stage of the eel. So, "Glass ___, spaghettilike fish" clues to "EEL."
Go a little one way or the other : LEAN
The word "LEAN" means to go a little one way or the other, making it the right answer to the clue.
Gold Medal offering : WHITE FLOUR
Gordon ___, engineer with a “law” predicting a doubling of transistors on microchips every two years : MOORE
The answer is "MOORE" because Gordon Moore is the engineer known for Moore's Law, which predicts a doubling of transistors on microchips every two years.
Got down to business, in a way : TALKED SHOP
The phrase "talked shop" means to discuss work-related matters, which is a way of getting down to business.
Got online, say : ORDERED
The answer "ORDERED" fits the clue "Got online, say" because ordering something online is a common action people take when they are on the internet.
Guarantee : ENSURE
The word "ensure" means to make certain or guarantee. Therefore, it is the correct answer to the clue "Guarantee".
Hard thing to find in a house of mirrors : DOOR
The answer "DOOR" is correct because a door is typically difficult to find in a house of mirrors as it can blend in with the reflections, making it hard to distinguish from the surrounding mirrors.
Helen of “The Queen” : MIRREN
The answer "MIRREN" is correct because Helen Mirren is the actress who portrayed Queen Elizabeth II in the movie "The Queen."
Helps, informally : DOES A SOLID
"Does a solid" is a slang term that means to provide assistance or help. It fits the clue "Helps, informally" because it is a casual way of saying someone is helping out.
Highly capable : ADEPT
"Highly capable" is a clue that suggests someone is skilled or proficient in a particular area. "Adept" means being very skilled or proficient at something, making it the right solution for this clue.
Hip-hop’s ___ Thee Stallion : MEGAN
The answer is "MEGAN" because Megan Thee Stallion is a popular hip-hop artist.
Hydroelectric projects : DAMS
The answer "DAMS" fits the clue "Hydroelectric projects" because dams are structures built to control and harness the power of flowing water to generate electricity through hydroelectric power plants.
In a corner : TRAPPED
The word "trapped" means being confined or stuck in a corner, making it a fitting answer to the clue "In a corner."
In an uncouth manner : RUDELY
The word "RUDELY" means in an uncouth manner, displaying a lack of manners or politeness. It fits the clue perfectly.
Innocent sort : NAIF
The word "naif" is a noun that means an innocent or unsophisticated person. Therefore, it is the right solution for the clue "Innocent sort."
Intended : MEANT
The word "meant" is a synonym for "intended," making it a suitable answer to the clue.
Just like that! : ITALIC
The phrase "just like that" is often used to indicate something happening suddenly or quickly, and "snap" is a word that can be used to convey the same meaning. Therefore, "snap" is an appropriate answer to the clue.
Justice Kagan : ELENA
The answer to "Justice Kagan" is "ELENA" because Elena Kagan is a current Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States.
Kashmiri king : RAJA
The term "Raja" is commonly used to refer to a king or monarch in India, including Kashmir. Therefore, "Kashmiri king" can be correctly answered with "RAJA."
Knee parts, in brief : ACLS
The answer "ACLS" stands for anterior cruciate ligaments, which are knee parts often referred to in brief as "ACLs."
Largest public sch. in the U.S., by enrollment : ASU
Later : IN A WHILE
The answer "TATA" is the right solution for the clue "Later!" because it is a colloquial way of saying goodbye.
Lifted one’s spirits? : MADE A TOAST
Many a school chaperone : DAD
"DAD" is the right solution because many school chaperones are fathers who volunteer to accompany students on field trips or school events.
Marketing worker, informally : AD REP
"AD REP" is the right solution because it is a common abbreviation for 'advertising representative,' which is a term often used to refer to a marketing worker in an informal context.
Meaty pasta sauce : RAGU
The answer to "Meaty pasta sauce" is "RAGU" because RAGU is a well-known brand of pasta sauce that offers a variety of meat-based options.
Meditative martial art : TAI CHI
Tai Chi is a meditative martial art that focuses on slow, deliberate movements and deep breathing. It is known for promoting relaxation, balance, and overall well-being, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Meditative martial art."
Mighty wind : GALE
"Gale" is the right answer because a gale is a very strong wind, typically one with a speed of 34 to 40 knots (39 to 46 mph).
Modern prefix with anxiety : ECO-
"ECO-" is the right solution because it is a modern prefix that is commonly used with words related to environmental concerns and sustainability.
Natural feature between México y Texas : RIO
The natural feature between México and Texas is the Rio Grande, known as "RIO" in Spanish. It is the correct solution because the Rio Grande is a river that forms part of the border between Mexico and Texas.
Number two : AIDE
The term "Number two" is a slang term for a person who holds the position of second in command. An "AIDE" is someone who assists or supports another person in a position of authority, making it the correct answer for this clue.
Office folder? : LAPTOP
The clue "Office folder?" is a play on words, suggesting that the answer is something commonly found in an office that can also be thought of as a folder. A laptop fits this description as it is a common office item that can store and organize digital files like a folder.
Offs : WHACKS
The word "Offs" is a slang term for killings or murders. "WHACKS" is a slang term for violent blows or hits, which can be associated with killings or murders. Therefore, "WHACKS" is a fitting answer for the clue "Offs."
One might start as a seed : IDEA
The answer "IDEA" fits the clue because an idea can start small like a seed and grow into something bigger.
P.S.T. part : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." is short for abbreviation, which is a common way to indicate that the answer is an abbreviation. In this case, "P.S.T. part" is looking for the abbreviation for Pacific Standard Time, which is "PST."
Part of an act : SCENE
In theater, a play is divided into acts, and each act is further divided into scenes. Therefore, "part of an act" is referring to a "SCENE".
Passion : ARDENCY
"ARDOR" is a synonym for intense passion or fervor. In this context, "Passion" is being used to indicate a strong feeling or emotion, making "ARDOR" a fitting answer.
Pioneers of freeze-drying food : INCAS
unknown
Place for a white picket fence and a mom-and-pop shop : ANYTOWN, USA
The answer "ANYTOWN, USA" is a common placeholder used to represent a typical small American town with traditional features like a white picket fence and a mom-and-pop shop. It is often used in a generic sense in various contexts, including crossword puzzles.
Planet whose day is longer than its year : VENUS
Venus rotates on its axis very slowly, taking about 243 Earth days to complete one rotation, while it only takes about 225 Earth days for Venus to orbit around the Sun. This makes Venus the planet whose day (rotation period) is longer than its year (orbital period).
Poker pot : KITTY
The term "kitty" in poker refers to the collective pot of money or chips that players contribute to during a hand. It is commonly used in games like draw poker or home games.
Polite term of address : MA’AM
"Ma'am" is a polite term of address used to show respect and courtesy towards a woman, especially in formal or professional settings. It is a common way to address someone in a respectful manner, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
Prominent features of elephant seals : NOSES
Elephant seals have large, distinctive noses that are a prominent feature of their appearance. Therefore, "NOSES" is the right answer to the clue.
Public house offering : ALE
The answer "ALE" fits the clue "Public house offering" because ale is a type of alcoholic beverage commonly served in pubs or public houses.
R + CANE : ARCANE
The answer to "R + CANE" is "ARCANE" because by adding the letter "R" to "CANE," we form the word "ARCANE," which means understood by few; mysterious or secret.
Record label for the Backstreet Boys : RCA
RCA is the record label that signed and released music for the Backstreet Boys.
Ridge in metalworking : KNURL
The answer "KNURL" is correct because a knurl is a raised ridge on a surface, commonly used in metalworking to provide a better grip or texture.
Riveting persona of W.W. II : ROSIE
Rosie the Riveter was a cultural icon representing the women who worked in factories and shipyards during World War II. She symbolizes women's strength and contribution to the war effort, making "ROSIE" a fitting answer for the clue "Riveting persona of W.W. II."
S + cape : ESCAPE
The answer to "S + cape" is "ESCAPE" because when you add "S" to "cape," it forms the word "escape," which means to break free or get away.
S.F.-to-Napa dir. : NNE
The abbreviation "S.F." stands for San Francisco, and "Napa" is a city located northeast of San Francisco. The direction "NNE" stands for north-northeast, which is the correct direction from San Francisco to Napa.
Saber alternative : EPEE
An epee is a type of sword used in fencing, which is an alternative to a saber.
Safe harbors : ASYLA
unknown
Salt’s companions : MATEYS
The clue "Salt's companions" is a play on words, referring to the term "mateys" which sounds like "mates," a common term for friends or companions. In this context, "Salt" is likely referring to sailors or pirates, who would refer to each other as "mateys."
See 101-Down : GIVE OFF
"See 101-Down" means to look at the clue numbered 101-Down in the crossword grid. In this case, the answer to 101-Down is "EMIT", which is another way of saying "give off". Therefore, the answer to "See 101-Down" is "GIVE OFF".
See 107-Down : HAVE EYES ON
"See 107-Down" is a common crossword clue that directs the solver to look at a different clue in the crossword grid. In this case, when you look at the answer to 107-Down, which is "WATCH," it becomes clear that "HAVE EYES ON" is the right solution as it is a synonym for "WATCH."
See 19-Down : CLEAR AS MUD
"See 19-Down" means that the answer to this clue can be found by looking at the answer to another clue, specifically clue number 19-Down. In this case, the answer to 19-Down is "MUDDY," so when you combine "MUDDY" with "CLEAR," you get the phrase "CLEAR AS MUD," which is a common expression meaning something is not clear at all.
See 29-Down : EAT AWAY
"See 29-Down" indicates that the answer to this clue can be found in the clue for 29-Down. In this case, the answer to 29-Down is "ERODE," which means to gradually wear away or diminish. "EAT AWAY" is a synonym for "ERODE," making it the correct solution.
See 46-Down : BACKSTAB
"See 46-Down" is a common crossword clue indicating that the answer can be found by looking at another clue in the crossword puzzle, specifically at 46-Down. So, to find the answer "BACKSTAB," you would need to look at the answer to 46-Down and use it to fill in "See 46-Down."
See 67-Down : WORK GROUP
The clue "See 67-Down" means that the answer to this clue is related to the answer for 67-Down. 67-Down is "Like some diets", and the answer is "LOWFAT". If you take the first two letters of "LOWFAT" and put them "IN" the word "STONE", you get "INSTONE".
See 82-Down : SIDESTEP
The answer "SIDESTEP" is the right solution because it is a word that means to avoid or dodge something, which is what you would do when you sidestep an obstacle. In a crossword puzzle, "See 82-Down" indicates that the answer can be found by looking at another clue, and in this case, "sidestep" is the answer to the clue at 82-Down.
Share from an illicit endeavor : TAKE
The word "take" can refer to sharing something obtained from an illicit endeavor, suggesting that the person took something that wasn't rightfully theirs to share.
Sharp : ACUTE
The word "sharp" can mean having a pointed or tapered end, which is synonymous with the word "acute".
Show listlessness : DROOP
"DROOP" means to show listlessness by sagging or bending downwards, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
Sierra ___ : LEONE
Sierra Leone is a country in West Africa, and "Sierra" is often used to refer to its mountainous landscape. Therefore, the answer to "Sierra ___" is "LEONE".
So far : TO NOW
The word "yet" indicates that something has not happened or been completed up to the present moment, which makes it a suitable answer for the clue "so far."
Startle : JOLT
"SPOOK" is the right answer because it is a synonym for "startle," meaning to frighten or surprise suddenly.
STEM part : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." is the right solution because "STEM" is an abbreviation for Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Therefore, "Abbr." indicates that the answer is an abbreviation.
Storage devices made obsolete by MP3 players : MINIDISCS
The answer "MINIDISCS" fits the clue because minidiscs were a type of physical storage device for music that became obsolete with the rise of MP3 players, which allowed for digital storage and playback of music files.
Structure that’s set on fire : PYRE Down 1 Network owned by Showtime
The answer "PYRE" fits the clue "Structure that’s set on fire" because a pyre is a structure used for burning a body as part of a funeral rite.
Suffix with emir : -ATE
The suffix "-ATE" can be added to the word "emir" to form the word "emirate," which refers to a territory ruled by an emir.
Tech company exec, for short : CIO
The answer "CIO" stands for Chief Information Officer, which is a common title for a tech company executive.
Temporary residence : CAMP
"CAMP" is the right solution because a temporary residence can be a campsite where people stay for a short period of time, usually while on vacation or during outdoor activities.
Theseus’ need in the Labyrinth : THREAD
In Greek mythology, Theseus used a thread to find his way out of the Labyrinth after defeating the Minotaur. The thread helped him navigate the complex maze and escape safely.
They’re for suckers : STRAWS
The phrase "for suckers" is a play on words, as "suckers" can refer to both gullible people and something you use to suck liquid. Straws are commonly used for sucking up beverages, making them the right answer.
TV journalist Navarro : ANA
The answer "ANA" is the right solution because Ana Navarro is a well-known TV journalist.
U + knit : UNIT
The word "U" combined with "knit" forms the word "UNIT" when the letters are rearranged.
Vast, as an operation : LARGE-SCALE
The clue "Vast, as an operation" indicates that the operation is large in scope or size. "Large-scale" directly corresponds to something that is vast or extensive, making it the right solution.
Visible signs of maturity : AGE SPOTS
"AGE SPOTS" are visible signs of maturity because they are flat, tan, brown, or black spots that appear on the skin as people age. They are commonly associated with older individuals, making them a fitting answer to the clue.
Vowel sound in “father” : SOFT A
"SOFT A" refers to the pronunciation of the letter A in the word "father," which is a common representation of the long vowel sound in phonetics.
War room briefings, in military shorthand : SITREPS
The answer "SITREPS" is short for "situation reports," which are briefings given in a war room to provide updates on the current situation.
Was transfixed by, in a way : STARED AT
The answer "STARED AT" fits the clue "Was transfixed by, in a way" because when someone is transfixed by something, they often stare at it intently.
Water feature created by rising sea levels : RIA
A "RIA" is a water feature created by rising sea levels that forms a drowned river valley. It fits the description of a water feature caused by the encroachment of seawater.
Weapon with wires : TASER
The answer "TASER" fits the clue "Weapon with wires" because a Taser is a weapon that shoots out wires connected to electrodes to deliver an electric shock to incapacitate a target.
What “fitz-” or “-ovic” mean, in names : SON OF
In names like "Fitzgerald" or "Ivanovic," the prefixes "fitz-" and "-ovic" both mean "son of" in various languages. So, "SON OF" is the correct answer for this clue.
White House dog of the 1980s : REX
Rex was the name of the White House dog during the 1980s, owned by President Ronald Reagan and First Lady Nancy Reagan.
Without regard to privacy : NOSILY
Worst time for a double fault : AD OUT
The answer "AD OUT" refers to a situation in tennis where the player who made a double fault is now at a disadvantage, with their opponent having the advantage. This is the worst time for a double fault because it can potentially lead to losing the point.
[Shivers] : [BRR]
The clue "[Shivers]" is a hint for a sound people make when they are cold. The answer "[BRR]" represents the onomatopoeic sound of shivering, making it the correct solution.
___ Collins, author of “The Hunger Games” : SUZANNE
Suzanne Collins is the author of "The Hunger Games," making "SUZANNE" the correct answer to the clue.
___ Urquhart, co-host of the podcast “Morbid” : ALAINA
___Kosh B’gosh : OSH
The answer "OSH" fits the clue "___Kosh B’gosh" because it completes the name of the clothing brand "OshKosh B’gosh".
‘The weekend is almost here!” : TGIF!
The answer "TGIF!" stands for "Thank God It's Friday," expressing excitement that the weekend is near.
“Au contraire!” : NOT SO!
"BUT NO!" is the right solution because it is an informal way to contradict or disagree with someone, which is the meaning of "Au contraire!" in French.
“Chances ___ …” : ARE
The phrase "Chances ___ ..." is commonly followed by the word "are" to complete the sentence. Therefore, "ARE" is the right answer.
“Conclave” actress Isabella : ROSSELLINI
Isabella Rossellini is an actress known for her role in the movie "Conclave," making her the correct answer to the clue.
“Have no ___ of perfection — you’ll never reach it” : Salvador Dalí
“Over here!” : PSST!
The answer "PSST!" is the right solution because it is a sound made to get someone's attention. It is often used to call someone over or to indicate that someone is nearby.
“See above,” in footnotes : IDEM
The answer "IDEM" is used in footnotes to refer to a previously cited source or work. It means "the same" in Latin, indicating that the source is the same as the one mentioned above.
“Ten-___!” : HUT
In football, "HUT" is a common command used by quarterbacks to signal the start of a play, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Ten-___!" which is often heard in football games.
“The Boy Who Cried Wolf” author : AESOP
Aesop is the right answer because he is the credited author of the fable "The Boy Who Cried Wolf," which teaches the lesson of not lying.
“Wee” fellow : LAD
"LAD" is a common term used to refer to a young boy or a "wee" fellow. It fits the clue well.
“What are the ___?” : ODDS
The phrase "What are the odds?" is a common expression used when questioning the likelihood of something happening. Therefore, the answer to the clue "“What are the ___?”" is "ODDS" because it fits the context of the expression.
“White & ___” (2006 Weird Al Yankovic parody) : NERDY
The answer is "NERDY" because it completes the title of the parody song by Weird Al Yankovic, which is a play on the song "Ridin'" by Chamillionaire featuring Krayzie Bone. The original song is called "Ridin' Dirty," and Weird Al's parody is called "White & Nerdy."