Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 22 September 2024, Sunday (09-22-24). 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.
16-time gig for Steve Martin : SNL HOST
The answer "SNL HOST" fits because Steve Martin has hosted Saturday Night Live (SNL) a total of 16 times, making him a 16-time gig for the show.
4×100 relay, for one : TEAM EVENT
The answer "TEAM EVENT" fits because a 4x100 relay is a track and field event where a team of four runners each run 100 meters as a team.
Accelerated : SPED UP
The answer "SPED UP" fits the clue "Accelerated" because it means to increase the speed or rate of something.
Ahead of, in poetry : ERE
"ERE" is a poetic word meaning "before" or "ahead of." In poetry, it is often used to create a more old-fashioned or formal tone.
Airport monitor, for short : TSA
The answer "TSA" is the right solution because TSA stands for Transportation Security Administration, which is responsible for airport security and monitors passengers and luggage at airports.
Annual May race, familiarly : IND(Y)
The answer "IND(Y)" is the right solution because the annual May race referred to in the clue is the Indianapolis 500, often shortened to "Indy" for brevity.
Apelike : SIMIAN
"Apelike" is a clue indicating a word that describes something resembling an ape. The word "SIMIAN" means relating to or resembling apes or monkeys, making it the right solution for this clue.
Basis for a feud : BEEF
The word "beef" is a slang term for a dispute or feud. So, "beef" is a fitting answer for the clue "Basis for a feud."
Be bad, like really bad : SUCK
"SUCK" can be used informally to mean being bad or not good at something. So, in the context of the clue "Be bad, like really bad," the answer "SUCK" fits as it conveys the idea of being exceptionally bad at something.
Became stuck : HIT A RUT
The phrase "hit a rut" means to become stuck in a difficult situation or routine, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Became stuck."
Brainy bunch : MENSANS
"MENSANS" is the right solution because Mensa is an organization for people with high IQs, so the "Brainy bunch" refers to members of Mensa.
Bulgarian or Bosnian : SLAV
"Slav" is the right solution because Bulgarians and Bosnians are both Slavic ethnic groups.
Bygone channel that launched with the two-hour pilot of “Star Trek : Voyager”
unknown
Card game with a Power Grab edition : UNO
UNO is a popular card game that has a special edition called "Power Grab." The clue is asking for a card game that has a specific edition, which fits with the answer UNO.
Certain online video snippet : YOUTUBE CLIP
The answer "YOUTUBE CLIP" fits the clue "Certain online video snippet" because YouTube is a popular platform for sharing videos, and a clip is a short segment of a video.
Classic cover-ups for spies : TRENCH COATS
The answer "TRENCH COATS" fits the clue "Classic cover-ups for spies" because spies in classic movies and literature are often depicted wearing trench coats to conceal their identity and blend in with the crowd.
Coding pioneer Lovelace : ADA
Ada Lovelace is considered a coding pioneer because she was an English mathematician and writer, chiefly known for her work on Charles Babbage's proposed mechanical general-purpose computer, the Analytical Engine. She is often regarded as the first computer programmer, making "ADA" the correct answer.
Colorful ingredients in some cookie recipes : M AND MS
The answer "M AND MS" fits the clue because M&M's are colorful candies often used as ingredients in cookie recipes. They add a pop of color and sweetness to the cookies.
Conditional coding word : ELSE
The term "ELSE" is commonly used in coding to create a conditional statement that is executed when the original condition is false. It serves as an alternative option to the main condition.
Cry from a treehouse : UP HERE!
The answer "UP HERE!" fits the clue "Cry from a treehouse" because it suggests someone calling from a higher location, like a treehouse, to get attention from below.
Curriculum ___ : VITAE
"Curriculum Vitae" is a Latin term that translates to "course of life." It is commonly used as a document that outlines a person's educational and professional achievements. Therefore, "VITAE" is the correct answer to the clue "Curriculum ___."
Data sought in phishing attempts, in brief : SSNS
The answer "SSNS" stands for "Social Security Numbers," which are often sought in phishing attempts to steal personal information.
Date on a debit card : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." stands for abbreviation, which is often used in crossword puzzles to indicate that the answer should be shortened or abbreviated. In this case, the clue is referring to the expiration date on a debit card, which is commonly abbreviated as "Exp. Date" or simply "Date."
Decks with cards numbered I through XXI : TAROTS
The cards used in tarot readings are numbered I through XXI, making "TAROTS" the correct answer.
Declines to : WON’T
"WON'T" is the contraction of "will not," indicating a refusal or decision not to do something, which aligns with the clue "Declines to."
Doesn’t rule out, as a possibility : KEEPS OPEN
"Keeps open" means to not eliminate or dismiss a possibility, hence it fits the clue "Doesn’t rule out, as a possibility."
Downwind, to seafarers : ALEE
"ALEE" is the right solution because in nautical terms, "alee" means the direction away from the wind. So, seafarers would go downwind to reach the alee side of the ship for shelter or to avoid the wind.
Early Christian meals of love and fellowship : AGAPES
The answer "AGAPES" fits because "agapes" were early Christian meals of love and fellowship, often referred to as "agape feasts" in the early Christian church.
Electronica pioneer Brian : ENO
Brian Eno is a well-known musician and producer who is considered a pioneer in the electronica genre. The clue "Electronica pioneer Brian" is referring to him, so the answer is "ENO".
Erase from one’s memory, in slang : UNSEE
"UNSEE" is the right solution because it is a slang term meaning to erase something from one's memory, often used in the context of wanting to forget something unpleasant or disturbing.
Expressed : PUT
"Expressed" can be a synonym for "put into words or action." In this context, "put" fits well as the answer.
Fall accessory? : PARACHUTE
The answer "PARACHUTE" fits the clue "Fall accessory?" because a parachute is an accessory used when falling from a height, like during skydiving or in an emergency situation.
Famed Ford flop : EDSEL
The Edsel was a car model produced by Ford in the late 1950s that was a commercial failure, hence it is known as a "Famed Ford flop."
Fastener that’s one letter ahead of “U-bolt” in the dictionary : T-NUT
"T-NUT" comes after "U-bolt" in the dictionary because the letter "T" comes after "U" in the alphabet. The clue is hinting at the alphabetical order of the letters to lead to the answer "T-NUT."
Female in the forest : DOE
The word "doe" refers to a female deer, which is commonly found in forests.
Fumble or bumble : ERR
"ERR" is the right solution because it is a common abbreviation for error, which can be a synonym for both fumble and bumble in a sports or general context.
Genre for Fall Out Boy : EMO POP
The answer "EMO POP" is the right solution because Fall Out Boy is a band known for their music style that combines elements of emo and pop, making their genre "EMO POP."
Glasses, informally : SPEX
The term "spex" is a slang term for glasses, commonly used informally.
Grows dimmer : WANES
"WANES" means to grow dimmer or decrease in intensity, making it the correct solution for the clue "Grows dimmer."
H on a frat house : ETA
"ETA" is the abbreviation for the Greek letter Eta. Fraternities often use Greek letters as their symbols, so "H on a frat house" refers to the letter H in the Greek alphabet, which is Eta.
Hacks with an ax : HEWS
The word "hews" means to cut or chop with an ax, making it the right answer for the clue "Hacks with an ax."
Harbor helper : TUG
A tugboat is a type of boat used to help guide and maneuver larger ships in and out of harbors. This makes "TUG" the fitting answer for the clue "Harbor helper."
Held together in a makeshift way : DUCT TAPED
The answer "DUCT TAPED" fits the clue "Held together in a makeshift way" because duct tape is commonly used to quickly and temporarily hold things together.
Home monitors : UMPS
"UMPS" is a slang term for umpires, who are the officials who monitor and make decisions in sports games, particularly in baseball.
Honorific from Sanskrit : SRI
"SRI" is an honorific title in Sanskrit used as a form of respect, similar to "Mr." or "Ms." in English. It is commonly used before a person's name in South and Southeast Asia.
Houdini’s signature feat … or a hint to the circled squares in this puzzle : ESCAPE ACT
The answer "ESCAPE ACT" is the right solution because Houdini was famous for his escape acts, where he would free himself from various restraints and confinement. The circled squares in the puzzle likely spell out words related to escaping, making "ESCAPE ACT" a fitting answer.
Imagine, casually : S’POSE
The answer "S'POSE" is the right solution because it is a casual way of saying "suppose" or "imagine." The apostrophe in "S'POSE" indicates the contraction of the word "suppose."
In the area : AROUND
The word "near" means close to or in the vicinity of a particular location, making it an appropriate answer for the clue "in the area."
Indecency : POOR TASTE
The answer "POOR TASTE" fits the clue "Indecency" because it implies behavior or actions that are considered inappropriate, offensive, or lacking in refinement or decency. It suggests a lack of good judgment or manners, which aligns with the idea of indecency.
Ingredient in a niçoise salad : TUNA
Tuna is a common ingredient in a niçoise salad, a traditional French salad that typically includes tuna, olives, tomatoes, and boiled eggs.
Instrument strummed in the Train song “Hey, Soul Sister” : UKULELE
The ukulele is a string instrument commonly strummed in songs like "Hey, Soul Sister" by Train, making it the correct answer to the clue.
Irish novelist O’Brien : EDNA
The Irish novelist referred to in the clue is Edna O'Brien, who is known for her works such as "The Country Girls" and "Girl". Therefore, the answer to the clue is "EDNA".
It might get booted : CAR
The clue "It might get booted" is a play on words, suggesting something that might be immobilized or towed away. In this case, a "CAR" can get a wheel boot placed on it if parked illegally, making it the correct answer.
Juice drinks : ADES
The answer "ADES" is the right solution because "ADES" is a common term used to refer to various juice drinks, such as lemonade or limeade.
Kicks back : RESTS
The term "kicks back" is often used to describe relaxing or taking it easy. "Chills" is a slang term that means to relax or unwind, making it a fitting answer for the clue.
Kin of a zin : CAB
The clue "Kin of a zin" is a play on words referring to types of wine. Zinfandel is a type of wine, and a similar type is Cabernet Sauvignon, often shortened to "Cab." So, the answer "CAB" fits the clue.
Lane for carpoolers : HOV
HOV stands for High Occupancy Vehicle, which refers to lanes designated for vehicles with multiple passengers, typically used by carpoolers.
Lead role in 3-Down/6-Down : ANDY DUFRESNE
"ANDY DUFRESNE" is the lead character played by Tim Robbins in the movie "The Shawshank Redemption," which is often considered one of the greatest films of all time. The clues "Lead role in 3-Down/6-Down" indicate that the answer is the main character in both the 3-Down and 6-Down entries of the crossword puzzle, making "ANDY DUFRESNE" the correct solution.
Lightning-fast hedgehog of video games : SONIC
"Sonic" is the right solution because Sonic the Hedgehog is a popular video game character known for his incredible speed.
Like cashmere : SOFT
The answer "SOFT" fits the clue "Like cashmere" because cashmere is known for being soft and luxurious to the touch.
Main blvd. through N.Y.C.’s Chinatown : CANAL ST
"CANAL ST" is the right solution because Canal Street is a main boulevard that runs through New York City's Chinatown neighborhood. It is known for its many shops and restaurants, making it a prominent and recognizable street in the area.
Make a break for it : RUN
"Make a break for it" is a common expression meaning to run away or escape quickly. Therefore, the answer "RUN" fits perfectly as it directly corresponds to the action described in the clue.
Make sense : COMPUTE
The phrase "add up" can mean to make sense or to be logical, which fits the clue "Make sense."
Negative influence on others, metaphorically : BAD APPLE
"BAD APPLE" is a fitting answer because the phrase "a bad apple" is commonly used to describe someone who has a negative influence on others, using the metaphor of a rotten apple spoiling the whole barrel.
Office building unit : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." is short for abbreviation, which indicates that the answer to the clue is an abbreviated term. In this case, "Office building unit" is commonly abbreviated as "Sq. Ft." for square feet, making "Abbr." the correct solution.
Olympians on stunt bikes, informally : BMX’ERS
The answer "BMX'ERS" fits the clue because BMX'ERS is a colloquial term for individuals who participate in BMX biking, which involves stunts and tricks.
One getting into some hot water? : BATHER
The answer "BATHER" fits the clue "One getting into some hot water?" because a bather is someone who gets into hot water when taking a bath.
Org. with Student Success Grants : NEA
The answer "NEA" fits because the National Education Association (NEA) is an organization that offers Student Success Grants.
Ostentatiously stylish : CHICHI
"Chichi" means ostentatiously stylish or pretentious, making it the perfect fit for the clue "Ostentatiously stylish."
Overplay : HAM UP
"HAM UP" means to overact or exaggerate, which fits the clue "Overplay" perfectly as it means to play a role in an exaggerated or over-the-top manner.
Part of H.M.S. : HER
The abbreviation for "Her Majesty's Ship" is H.M.S., and "HER" is a possessive pronoun that can be used to refer to something belonging to a female. So, "HER" is the correct answer for "Part of H.M.S."
Parts of N.F.L. highlight reels, for short : TDS
The answer "TDS" stands for touchdowns, which are often featured in highlight reels of NFL games. So, "TDS" is the right solution for the clue "Parts of N.F.L. highlight reels, for short."
Pennzoil competitor : STP Down 1 Exceeds 21, in blackjack
The answer is "STP" because Pennzoil and STP are both brands of motor oil, making them competitors in the automotive industry.
Poise under pressure : APLOMB
"Applomb" means self-confidence and composure, which are qualities that someone who is poised under pressure would exhibit.
Pollution-regulating org. : EPA
The answer "EPA" is the right solution because EPA stands for the Environmental Protection Agency, which is a government organization responsible for regulating pollution and protecting the environment.
Popular gala venue, with “the” : … MET
The answer "… MET" fits the clue because the Metropolitan Opera House in New York City is a popular gala venue often referred to as "the Met."
Portrayer of 18-Down : TIM ROBBINS
The answer "TIM ROBBINS" fits the clue because Tim Robbins is an actor who has portrayed various characters in movies and TV shows, including the character referenced by the answer "18-Down."
Prefix with -lithic : NEO-
The prefix "NEO-" means new or recent. When combined with "-lithic," it refers to a new or recent form of stone or rock.
Rap group inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame : NWA
NWA, short for Niggaz Wit Attitudes, was a pioneering rap group known for their controversial lyrics and influence on the genre. They were inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2016 for their significant impact on music and culture.
Razz : KID
Real no-brainer? : UTTER FOOL
"Real no-brainer?" is a play on words suggesting someone who is a complete fool, making "UTTER FOOL" the appropriate answer.
Receptacle for soaking before a pedicure : FOOT SPA
The answer "FOOT SPA" fits the clue because a foot spa is a receptacle specifically designed for soaking feet before a pedicure, providing relaxation and preparing the feet for treatment.
Red side, in brief : GOP
The answer "GOP" stands for Grand Old Party, which is a nickname for the Republican Party in the United States. The Republican Party is often associated with the color red in American politics, hence "Red side" referring to the GOP.
Reef lurker : EEL
The answer "EEL" fits the clue "Reef lurker" because eels are known to hide and lurk in the crevices and rocks of coral reefs.
Resort town in Alberta’s Rockies : BANFF
The answer "BANFF" fits the clue because Banff is a popular resort town located in Alberta's Rockies. It is known for its stunning natural beauty and outdoor recreational activities, making it a well-known destination in the region.
Rudder found in nature : FISH FIN
The rudder of a fish is its fin, which helps it steer and maintain balance in the water. So, "FISH FIN" is the right solution for the clue "Rudder found in nature."
See 3-Down : … REDEMPTION
Shot makers, for short : RNS
"RNS" is the right solution because it is a common abbreviation for "Registered Nurses," who are often referred to as shot makers because they administer injections or shots to patients.
Shoveled stuff : DIRT
"Dirt" is the right answer because when you shovel, you are likely moving soil or earth, which is commonly referred to as dirt.
Six-foot-tall Aussie sprinter : EMU
The answer "EMU" fits because an emu is a six-foot-tall bird native to Australia known for its speed and sprinting abilities.
Sizable challenge for a mover : SOFA
The answer "SOFA" fits because a sofa is a large and heavy item that poses a significant challenge for movers due to its size and weight.
Sneaky ___ (sly dogs) : PETES
Some makeshift fans : FRONDS
The word "FRONDS" refers to the leafy part of a palm tree, which can be used as makeshift fans.
Some online pings, in brief : IMS
The abbreviation "IMS" stands for "Instant Messages," which are short messages sent and received in real-time on online platforms. Therefore, "Some online pings, in brief" is referring to IMS as a common way to communicate online.
Stage a jailbreak à la 18-Down : TUNNEL OUT
The answer "TUNNEL OUT" fits the clue because it suggests using a tunnel to escape from jail, which is a common method in jailbreak scenarios.
Swain : BEAU
The term "swain" is an old-fashioned word for a lover or suitor. "Beau" is a synonym for a boyfriend or suitor, making it the correct answer for this clue.
Take inventory? : ROB
"Take inventory" is a play on words where "inventory" refers to a stock of goods, and "take" suggests to steal or rob. Therefore, the answer "ROB" fits the clue.
Target audience for “Peppa Pig” : TOTS
The answer "TOTS" is a slang term for young children, which fits the target audience for the children's show "Peppa Pig."
Terse admonishment : DON’T!
The answer "DON’T!" is a terse admonishment because it is a short and direct way of telling someone not to do something.
Texter’s alternative to an eye roll emoji : SMH
"SMH" stands for "shaking my head," which is a common expression used to convey disappointment or disapproval in text messages. It is often used as an alternative to the eye roll emoji to show a similar reaction.
The swans in “The Twelve Days of Christmas,” e.g. : SEPTET
The answer "SEPTET" is the right solution because a septet refers to a group of seven people or things, which fits the clue referring to the seven swans in "The Twelve Days of Christmas."
The White House grounds have 18 of them : ACRES
The White House grounds cover a large area of land, and the unit of measurement commonly used to describe such large areas is "acres."
They’re measured in beats per minute : TEMPOS
TEMPOS are measured in beats per minute because tempo refers to the speed or pace of a piece of music, and this is commonly indicated by the number of beats per minute.
This really blows! : TNT
The phrase "This really blows!" is an expression of frustration or disappointment. TNT is known for exploding or blowing up, so it fits the clue as a play on words.
Thus far : TO DATE
"Thus far" implies that something has happened up to a certain point, but there is still more to come. "Yet" is a word that indicates that something is expected to happen in the future, but has not happened up to the present point. Therefore, "yet" is a suitable answer to the clue "thus far".
To sweeten the deal : AS A BONUS
The phrase "AS A BONUS" means to provide something extra or additional to make a deal more attractive or appealing. It fits the clue "To sweeten the deal" because it suggests adding something extra to make the offer better.
To-do : FUSS
The word "FUSS" is a suitable answer to the clue "To-do" because it refers to a state of excessive activity or commotion, which is often associated with tasks or errands that need to be done.
Top of a titmouse : TUFT
The top of a titmouse is often adorned with a small cluster of feathers or hair called a tuft, making "TUFT" the correct answer.
Treated unfairly, informally : SHAFTED
"SHAFTED" is a slang term meaning treated unfairly or cheated. It fits the clue "Treated unfairly, informally" because it captures the informal and negative connotation of being treated unfairly.
Turned on an axis : SLEWED
"SLEWED" means to have turned on an axis, often quickly or abruptly. In this context, it is a common term used to describe a sudden or sharp rotation or pivot.
U.S. currency : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." is short for abbreviation, indicating that the answer to the clue "U.S. currency" is a shortened or abbreviated form of a word or phrase. In this case, the answer is "USD" which stands for United States Dollar.
Unwelcome obligation : ONUS
"Unwelcome obligation" is a common phrase that can be described by the word "ONUS," which means a burden or a responsibility that is difficult to bear.
Unwrapped with gusto : TORE AT
The phrase "Unwrapped with gusto" suggests tearing something open eagerly or with enthusiasm, which fits the answer "TORE AT."
Ways off : EXITS
The answer "EXITS" fits the clue "Ways off" because exits are the ways to leave or exit a place.
What a police escort may offer : SAFE PASSAGE
The answer "SAFE PASSAGE" fits the clue "What a police escort may offer" because a police escort can provide safe and secure passage for someone or something through a potentially dangerous or crowded area.
What “washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life,” per Picasso : ART
Picasso believed that art cleanses the soul from the ordinary and mundane aspects of daily life, making "ART" the right answer to the clue.
With 6-Down, prison drama released on September 23, 1994 : THE SHAWSHANK …
The answer "THE SHAWSHANK ..." fits the clue because "prison drama released on September 23, 1994" refers to the movie "The Shawshank Redemption," which was released on that date. The "6-Down" part of the clue likely refers to the word "REDEMPTION," making the full answer "THE SHAWSHANK REDEMPTION."
Word with body or blood : … TYPE
The answer "TYPE" can be combined with "body" to form the word "body type" and with "blood" to form the word "blood type."
Wraps : ENDS
The answer "STOLES" is the right solution because "wraps" can refer to garments that are worn around the shoulders or neck, and "STOLES" fits this description perfectly.
Wrinkle-free, say : IRONED
The clue "Wrinkle-free, say" is hinting at something that is smooth and without wrinkles. The answer "IRONED" fits because clothes that have been ironed are typically smooth and wrinkle-free.
Yearn (for) : ACHE
The word "pine" can mean to strongly desire or yearn for something.
Yeti’s commercial rival : IGLOO
The Yeti is a brand known for coolers, and an Igloo is a brand that makes coolers as well, making them commercial rivals in the cooler industry.
___ América (quadrennial soccer championship) : COPA
"COPA" is the right solution because "Copa" is a Spanish word that translates to "Cup" in English, and the tournament is commonly known as the "Copa América," which is a quadrennial soccer championship in South America.
___ Corner, section of Westminster Abbey : POETS’
The section of Westminster Abbey where many famous poets are buried is called Poets' Corner. This is why the answer to the clue "___ Corner, section of Westminster Abbey" is "POETS'".
“Ain’t gonna happen!” : NO WAY!
The answer "NOPE" is the right solution because it is a casual and informal way of saying "no" or indicating that something is not going to happen.
“Already?!” : SO SOON?!
The answer "SO SOON?" fits the clue "Already?" because it expresses surprise or disbelief that something has happened or is happening earlier than expected.
“Are you ___ drive?” : OK TO
The phrase "Are you OK to drive?" is a common question asking if someone is in a condition to safely operate a vehicle. The answer "OK TO" indicates that the person is indeed okay to drive.
“Bad luck, I guess … It was my turn, that’s all. I was in the path of the ___” (quote from 18-Down) : TORNADO
This answer fits because tornadoes can be destructive and cause bad luck by crossing someone's path.
“Breaking Bad” channel : AMC
"AMC" is the right solution because it is the channel on which the TV show "Breaking Bad" originally aired.
“Cup ___ cone?” : OR A
The phrase "Cup ___ cone?" is a common expression asking whether you prefer ice cream in a cup or a cone. The answer "OR A" completes the question, suggesting the choice between the two options.
“Good joke!” : HAH!
The answer "HAH!" is a common expression of amusement or laughter, often used to acknowledge a good joke.
“Hey, I’m walkin’ here!” : WATCH IT!
The phrase "Hey, I'm walkin' here!" is often said by someone to alert others to be careful and watch where they are going. "WATCH IT!" is a similar expression conveying the same message.
“Like that matters to me!” : AS IF I CARE!
The answer "AS IF I CARE!" fits the clue "Like that matters to me!" because it conveys a dismissive and indifferent attitude towards the situation or statement mentioned, emphasizing the speaker's lack of concern or interest.
“The Heart of Georgia” : MACON
Macon is known as "The Heart of Georgia" due to its central location in the state.
“This is the worst!” : UGH!
"UGH!" is an exclamation often used to express disgust or annoyance, making it a fitting response to the statement "This is the worst!" in a crossword puzzle.
“What was I thinking!?” : D’OH!
The answer "D'OH!" is a common expression of frustration or realization of a mistake, often associated with the character Homer Simpson from "The Simpsons." It fits the clue "What was I thinking!?" because it conveys a sense of regret or exasperation.
“Yo!,” on the down-low : PSST!
The answer "PSST!" fits the clue because it is a common informal way of getting someone's attention quietly or secretly, similar to saying "Yo!" on the down-low.