Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 24 September 2023, Sunday (09-24-23). 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.
100 öre : KRONA
The answer to "100 öre" is "KRONA" because "KRONA" is the currency of Sweden, and 100 öre is equal to 1 krona.
12 ounces, often, for a drink : SMALL
The answer to "12 ounces, often, for a drink" is "SMALL" because a small drink is typically served in a 12-ounce size.
1300 : ONE PM
The answer "ONE PM" is the right solution because "1300" is the military time representation for 1:00 PM.
8.5″ x 14″ : LEGAL
The answer to "8.5" x 14"" is "LEGAL" because "LEGAL" is the standard paper size that measures 8.5 inches by 14 inches.
All-vowel avowal : AYE
The answer "AYE" is the right solution because it is a word that consists only of vowels, which matches the clue "All-vowel avowal."
America’s Got Talent segment : ACT
The answer to "America's Got Talent segment" is "ACT" because on the show, performers showcase their talents in various acts such as singing, dancing, magic, or comedy.
Apt rhyme of “Achoo!” : FLU
The answer "FLU" is the right solution because it is a word that rhymes with "Achoo!" and is also an apt choice because "Achoo!" is often associated with sneezing, which can be a symptom of the flu.
Beats me : NO IDEA
The phrase "Beats me" is often used to express not knowing or having no idea about something. Therefore, "NO IDEA" is the right answer as it captures the meaning of the clue accurately.
Become liquidy : MELT
The answer "MELT" is the right solution because it means to become liquidy or to change from a solid to a liquid state, typically due to heat.
Bud of baseball : SELIG
The answer "SELIG" is the right solution because Bud Selig served as the Commissioner of Major League Baseball from 1998 to 2015.
Bygone autocrat : TSAR
The answer "TSAR" is the right solution because a "TSAR" refers to a bygone autocrat, specifically a ruler in Russia before the revolution.
Certain employee of a game company or perfumery : TESTER Down 1 Amigo
The answer to "Certain employee of a game company or perfumery" is "TESTER" because in both a game company and a perfumery, testers are individuals who try out and evaluate products before they are released to the public.
Chill dude : COOL CAT
The answer "COOL CAT" is the right solution because it is a common phrase used to describe someone who is calm, relaxed, and unfazed by things.
Contests : VIES
The answer to "Contests" is "VIES" because "vies" means to compete or contend with someone in a contest or rivalry.
Continuously : ON END
The answer "ON END" is the right solution because it means "continuously" or "without interruption." It is a short and simple phrase that accurately describes the clue.
Coogler who co-wrote and directed “Black Panther” : RYAN
The answer is "RYAN" because Ryan Coogler is the co-writer and director of the movie "Black Panther".
Cotton variety : PIMA
The answer "PIMA" is the right solution because it is a type of cotton variety known for its long and luxurious fibers.
Cristiano Ronaldo’s team : Abbr.
The answer is "POR" which is short for Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo is a Portuguese professional soccer player, and "team" refers to the national team he represents, which is Portugal.
Crypto unit : COIN
The answer to "Crypto unit" is "COIN" because a coin is a unit of currency that can be used in cryptography.
Dance Myself to Sleep singer on “Sesame Street” (watch the video on YouTube!) : ERNIE
The answer is "ERNIE" because he is a character from "Sesame Street" and is known for singing the song "Dance Myself to Sleep."
Desert “I” land? : ISRAEL
The answer "ISRAEL" is the right solution because it fits the clue "Desert 'I' land?" perfectly. Israel is a country located in the Middle East, and a significant portion of its land is covered by desert, including the Negev Desert. The clue cleverly hints at the letter "I" being present in the answer, which is the case in "ISRAEL."
Destination for migrating humpback whales : MAUI
The answer "MAUI" is the right solution because it is a popular destination for migrating humpback whales. The warm waters around Maui provide an ideal environment for these whales to mate and give birth.
Director Orson : WELLES
The answer to "Director Orson" is "WELLES" because Orson Welles was a famous American film director.
Draw : LURE
The word "draw" can mean to tie a game or competition. In sports or games, if both teams or players have the same score or result, it is considered a tie or a draw. Therefore, "tie" is a suitable answer for the crossword clue "draw".
Dreaded words to a bluffer : I CALL
The answer "I CALL" is the right solution because when someone is bluffing in a game, these words indicate that the person is challenging the bluff and demanding to see the opponent's cards.
Drops like flies? : UNZIPS
The answer "UNZIPS" is the right solution because it plays on the phrase "drops like flies," which means something is happening rapidly or in large numbers. In this case, "UNZIPS" refers to the action of quickly opening or undoing a zipper, which can be seen as dropping or separating rapidly.
Dutch explorer Tasman for whom an island is named : ABEL
The Dutch explorer Tasman is named Abel Tasman. Therefore, the answer to the crossword clue is "ABEL".
Egg : Prefix
Excitement : ADO
The word "arousal" means excitement or stimulation, making it an appropriate answer for the clue "Excitement."
Execrate : DETEST
The word "execrate" means to feel intense dislike or hatred towards something or someone. The word "detest" is a synonym for "execrate," as it also means to strongly dislike or hate. Therefore, "detest" is the right solution for the clue "execrate."
Fan setting : LOW
The answer "LOW" is the right solution for the clue "Fan setting" because it refers to the lowest speed or power setting of a fan.
Farmer’s hope, maybe : RAIN
The answer to "Farmer's hope, maybe" is "RAIN" because farmers rely on rain for their crops to grow.
First plant on Earth, it’s thought : MOSS
MOSS is the right solution because it is believed to be one of the first plants to have appeared on Earth. It is a simple, non-vascular plant that has been around for millions of years, making it a likely candidate for the "First plant on Earth."
Float through the air : WAFT
The answer "WAFT" is the right solution because it means to move gently through the air, just like something floating or drifting.
French house : MAISON
The answer "MAISON" is the right solution because "MAISON" is the French word for "house".
German “you” : SIE
The answer to "German 'you'" is "SIE" because "SIE" is the formal word for "you" in German.
Give, but not as a gift : LEND
The answer to "Give, but not as a gift" is "LEND" because lending means temporarily giving something to someone with the expectation of getting it back. It is different from giving as a gift, which implies giving something permanently.
Hosp. section : ICU
The answer to "Hosp. section" is "ICU" because ICU stands for Intensive Care Unit, which is a specialized section in a hospital where critically ill patients receive constant monitoring and specialized medical care.
In a manner of speaking : SO TO SAY
The phrase "so to say" is an idiom that is used to indicate that something is being said in a manner that is not entirely accurate or literal. It is a way of expressing that the following statement is figurative or approximate. Therefore, "so to say" is the right solution for the clue "In a manner of speaking."
In debt : OWING
The answer "OWING" is the right solution to the clue "In debt" because it means being in a state of owing money or being financially obligated to pay someone else.
Informal shirt : TEE
The answer to "Informal shirt" is "TEE" because a T-shirt, often referred to as a "tee," is a casual and informal type of shirt that is commonly worn.
Insurance company with a purple heart logo : AETNA
The insurance company with a purple heart logo is AETNA because AETNA is a well-known insurance company that uses a purple heart as its logo.
Is revolting : RIOTS
The answer "RIOTS" fits the clue "Is revolting" because riots are a form of public revolt or uprising against authority or a cause.
Isn’t steady : TEETERS
The word "teeters" means to be unsteady or to wobble. It fits the clue "Isn't steady" because it describes something that lacks stability or balance.
It’s human, it’s said : TO ERR
The phrase "to err" means to make a mistake, and it is commonly said that making mistakes is human. Therefore, "to err" is the correct answer to the clue "It's human, it's said."
Key board players : CEOS
The term "key board" is a play on words, referring to the keys on a computer keyboard. "CEOS" are the top executives who make important decisions, similar to how the keys on a keyboard play a crucial role in operating a computer.
Kind of card : DEBIT
The answer "DEBIT" is the right solution because a debit card is a type of card that allows you to make purchases and withdraw money directly from your bank account.
Language in which “hello” is ສະບາຍດີ : LAO
The answer is "LAO" because "ສະບາຍດີ" is the Lao word for "hello", and Lao is the language in which this word is used.
Lead-in to space : AERO-
The answer "AERO-" is the right solution because it is a common prefix used to indicate something related to air or aviation. In the context of the clue "Lead-in to space," "AERO-" suggests that the word that follows it will be related to the concept of space travel or exploration.
Like only some mushrooms : EDIBLE
The answer "EDIBLE" is the right solution because some mushrooms are safe for consumption and considered edible, while others are toxic or inedible.
Literally, “three teeth” : TRIDENT
The answer to "Literally, 'three teeth'" is "TRIDENT" because a trident is a three-pronged spear, with each prong resembling a tooth.
Littlest teams : DUOS
The answer is "DUOS" because a duo refers to a group or team of two individuals, making it the smallest possible team size.
Locale of tiny tunnels : ANTHILL
The answer "ANTHILL" is the right solution because it fits the clue "Locale of tiny tunnels." An anthill is a mound or hill created by ants, and within it, there are intricate networks of tiny tunnels where ants live and work. Therefore, "ANTHILL" accurately describes the location of these tunnels.
Louis Braille, when he invented Braille : TEEN
The answer "TEEN" fits the clue because Louis Braille invented Braille when he was a teenager.
Lover boy : CASANOVA
The term "lover boy" is often used to describe someone who is charming and seductive. Casanova was a famous Italian adventurer known for his romantic escapades and seductive nature, making him a fitting answer for this clue.
Major export of Venezuela : PETROLEUM
The answer "PETROLEUM" is the right solution because Venezuela is known for being one of the world's largest exporters of oil, specifically petroleum.
Make oneself heard, in a way : YELL
The answer "YELL" is the right solution because when someone yells, they are making themselves heard in a forceful and loud manner.
Marine creature whose name has four consecutive vowels : SEA EEL
The answer "SEA EEL" is the right solution because it is a marine creature that has four consecutive vowels in its name: "E-A-E-E."
Marvel-ous guy? : STAN LEE
The answer "STAN LEE" is the right solution because Stan Lee was a prominent figure in the Marvel universe, co-creating many iconic characters such as Spider-Man, Iron Man, and the Hulk.
Merit : EARN
"Rate" can mean a measure or degree of quality or achievement, which is similar in meaning to "Merit".
Multiple choice option : NONE
The answer "NONE" is the right solution because in a multiple-choice question, "NONE" is an option that indicates the absence of a correct answer among the given choices.
Nostalgic style : RETRO
The answer to "Nostalgic style" is "RETRO" because "retro" refers to a style that imitates or pays homage to trends, fashion, or design from the past. It is commonly associated with a sense of nostalgia.
Not a southpaw : RIGHTY
The term "southpaw" is often used to describe someone who is left-handed. Therefore, "Not a southpaw" suggests someone who is right-handed, which is commonly referred to as a "righty."
Not strict : LAX
The word "LAX" is the right solution because it means not strict or relaxed.
On deck : NEXT
The phrase "on deck" is commonly used in sports to refer to the player who is next to participate. In a crossword context, "NEXT" fits perfectly as it means the upcoming or following item or person.
One may be 5-4 : RULING
The answer to "One may be 5-4" is "RULING" because a "ruling" can refer to a decision made by a judge or a court, and the numbers 5-4 indicate a close decision or vote.
Online business : ETAIL
The answer to "Online business" is "ETAIL" because it is a combination of the words "e" for electronic and "retail" which refers to the buying and selling of goods. In this context, it specifically refers to conducting business online.
Org. at the front of a phone book : AAA
The answer "AAA" is the right solution because it refers to the American Automobile Association, which is often found at the front of phone books as a trusted resource for roadside assistance and other automotive services.
Path : AVENUE
The answer to "Path" is "WAY" because a way is a route or track that can be followed to reach a destination.
PC-to-PC connection : LAN
The answer "LAN" stands for Local Area Network, which is a common type of PC-to-PC connection used in homes, offices, and other small areas. It allows multiple computers to connect and share resources within a limited geographic area.
Penultimate letter in the NATO alphabet : YANKEE
The answer "YANKEE" is the right solution because it is the penultimate letter in the NATO alphabet. In the NATO alphabet, the letter "Y" is the second-to-last letter before "Z".
Place for a feather : CAP
The answer "CAP" is the right solution because a cap is a type of headgear that can have a feather attached to it, making it a place for a feather.
Places where dough is made from rolls? : CRAP TABLES
Powerfully built : BURLY
The word "brawny" means powerfully built, and "burly" is a synonym for "brawny." Therefore, "burly" is the right solution for the clue "powerfully built."
Product once marketed with dancing silhouettes : IPOD
The answer "IPOD" is the right solution because iPods were a product that were once marketed with dancing silhouettes in their iconic advertising campaigns.
Pumpkin, for one : PET NAME
The answer "PET NAME" is the right solution because a pumpkin can be a pet name, as in a term of endearment or nickname for someone.
Puts down : ABASES
The answer "DISSES" fits the clue "Puts down" because "disses" is a slang term that means to insult or criticize someone in a disrespectful way.
Rant : TIRADE
The word "TIRADE" is the right solution for the clue "Rant" because a tirade refers to a long, angry, and passionate speech or outburst, which accurately captures the essence of a rant.
Rapper who co-starred in 1991’s “New Jack City” : ICE-T
The answer is "ICE-T" because he is a rapper and he co-starred in the movie "New Jack City" in 1991.
Reaction to the 1950s culture of commercial consumerism : POP ART
The answer "POP ART" is the right solution because it refers to an art movement that emerged in the 1950s as a reaction to the culture of commercial consumerism. Pop artists used imagery from popular culture, such as advertisements and consumer products, to critique and challenge the mass-produced, materialistic society of the time.
River forming the Swiss/Liechtenstein border : RHINE
The Rhine is the correct answer because it is a river that flows through Switzerland and forms the border between Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
S.N.L. characters who coined the term “parental units” : CONEHEADS
The answer is "CONEHEADS" because the characters from "Saturday Night Live" who coined the term "parental units" were aliens with cone-shaped heads.
Scuba ___ : DIVER
The answer to "Scuba ___" is "DIVER" because a scuba diver is someone who uses scuba gear to explore underwater.
See 15-Down : … ONTARIO
The answer to "See 15-Down" is "… ONTARIO" because it refers to a clue that can be found at 15-Down in the crossword grid.
See 84- : … AND GAMBLE (PROCTER AND GAMBLE)
The answer to "See 84-" is "... AND GAMBLE (PROCTER AND GAMBLE)" because the clue is indicating that the answer can be found at another location, specifically at clue number 84. In this case, clue number 84 would likely provide the word "PROCTER," and when combined with the word "GAMBLE," we get the full answer "PROCTER AND GAMBLE."
See the sites? : BROWSE
The answer "BROWSE" is the right solution because when we "see the sites," we often casually look through different webpages or online content without a specific goal in mind. This action of casually looking through various options or information is commonly referred to as "browsing."
Short Instagram video : REEL
The answer to "Short Instagram video" is "REEL" because on Instagram, a "reel" refers to a short video clip that users can create and share on their profiles.
Sign for a speaker to wrap things up : YAWN
The answer "YAWN" is the right solution because when someone yawns, it is often seen as a sign of boredom or tiredness. In the context of a speaker wrapping things up, a yawn can indicate that the audience is losing interest and it's time to conclude the speech.
Singer/songwriter Mann : AIMEE
The answer to "Singer/songwriter Mann" is "AIMEE" because Aimee Mann is a well-known singer and songwriter.
Some baseball stats : RBIS
The answer "RBIS" stands for runs batted in, which is a common baseball statistic used to measure a player's offensive performance. It represents the number of runs a batter has driven in by hitting a ball that allows a teammate to score.
Some bridge positions : WESTS
The answer "WESTS" is the right solution because in the game of bridge, players are typically seated in the compass directions: North, East, South, and West. So, "Some bridge positions" refers to the positions of players sitting in the West direction.
Some T.S.A. no-nos : GELS
The answer "GELS" is the right solution because some T.S.A. regulations restrict carrying certain types of gels in your hand luggage.
Something to pull on a highway, informally : UEY
The answer "UEY" is the right solution because it is a colloquial term for a U-turn, which is something you might pull on a highway.
Sport with clay disks : SKEET
The answer "SKEET" is the right solution because it is a sport that involves shooting clay disks.
Starting point : SEED
The answer "SEED" is the right solution because a seed is the starting point of a plant's growth. It represents the beginning or origin of something, making it a fitting answer for the clue "Starting point."
Streaming competitor : CABLE
Sudden burst of speed : SPURT
The answer to "Sudden burst of speed" is "SPURT" because a spurt is a quick and sudden increase in speed or activity.
Takes in : ADOPTS
The word "adopts" fits the clue "Takes in" because it means to legally take someone else's child as one's own.
That would stink : HOPE NOT
The answer "HOPE NOT" is the right solution because it is a phrase often used to express a strong desire or preference for something not to happen. In the context of the clue "That would stink," it implies that the speaker strongly hopes the described situation does not occur.
The Sixties, e.g. : ERA
The answer to "The Sixties, e.g." is "ERA" because the clue is referring to a specific time period, which is the 1960s. An "era" is a long and distinct period of time, making it a fitting answer.
To have another language is to possess a second ___ : Charlemagne
Took the bench : SAT
The answer "SAT" is the right solution because "took the bench" is a clue that indicates sitting down, and "SAT" is the past tense of the verb "sit."
Troubles : AILS
The answer to "Troubles" is "AILS" because "ails" is a verb that means to cause trouble or suffering.
University of Maine town : ORONO
The answer to "University of Maine town" is "ORONO" because Orono is the actual town in Maine where the University of Maine is located.
We are not ___ : AMUSED
The answer to "We are not ___" is "AMUSED" because "AMUSED" is the opposite of "bored" or "entertained". It fits the clue as it completes the sentence and indicates a lack of amusement.
Weak excuse : COP OUT
The term "COP OUT" is commonly used to describe a weak excuse or a way of avoiding responsibility. It fits the clue "Weak excuse" perfectly, making it the right solution.
We’ve rebranded! Now we do genealogy for the U.S.’s rich and famous! : AMERICAN HEIR LINES (AMERICAN AIRLINES)
The answer "AMERICAN HEIR LINES (AMERICAN AIRLINES)" is the right solution because it cleverly combines the clue's context of genealogy for the U.S.'s rich and famous with the rebranded name "AMERICAN HEIR LINES," which is a play on the well-known airline "AMERICAN AIRLINES." The answer fits both the wordplay and the theme of the clue.
We’ve rebranded! Now we help write breakup letters! : BEST BYE (BESTBUY)
The answer "BEST BYE (BESTBUY)" is the right solution because it is a play on words. "Best Bye" sounds like "Best Buy," which is a well-known electronics retailer. The clue suggests that the company has rebranded to help write breakup letters, which is a humorous twist.
We’ve rebranded! Now we produce a “Beauty and the Beast”-themed podcast! : TALK O’ BELLE (TACO BELL)
The answer "TALK O' BELLE (TACO BELL)" is the right solution because it combines the words "talk" and "Belle" to create a play on words with the fast food chain "Taco Bell." The clue suggests that the podcast has been rebranded to focus on "Beauty and the Beast," and the answer cleverly incorporates both elements.
We’ve rebranded! Now we run an advice column on friendship! : BUD WISER (BUDWEISER)
The answer "BUD WISER (BUDWEISER)" is the right solution because it is a play on words. "Bud" refers to a friend, and "wiser" suggests wisdom or advice. "Budweiser" is a well-known brand that has been rebranded in this context to fit the clue.
We’ve rebranded! Now we sell candy to diplomats! : EMBASSY SWEETS (EMBASSY SUITES)
The answer "EMBASSY SWEETS" is a play on the phrase "EMBASSY SUITES." It combines the word "EMBASSY," which relates to diplomats, with "SWEETS," which refers to candy. Therefore, it cleverly represents the idea of selling candy to diplomats.
We’ve rebranded! Now we sell doughnuts and bagels! : HOLE FOODS (WHOLE FOODS)
The answer "HOLE FOODS (WHOLE FOODS)" is a play on words. "HOLE FOODS" is a clever twist on the popular grocery store chain "WHOLE FOODS." It combines the idea of selling doughnuts and bagels, which have holes in them, with the concept of a health-focused grocery store that offers wholesome food options.
We’ve rebranded! Now we sell ivy! : WALL GREENS (WALGREENS)
The answer "WALL GREENS (WALGREENS)" is the right solution because it is a play on words. The clue mentions "ivy," which is a type of plant that often grows on walls. "WALL GREENS" is a clever play on the name "WALGREENS," which is a well-known pharmacy and retail store.
We’ve rebranded! Now we sell only pens and pencils! : WRITE AID (RITEAID)
The answer "WRITE AID (RITEAID)" is the right solution because it is a play on words. "Write Aid" sounds like "Rite Aid," which is a well-known pharmacy chain. The clue suggests a change in the business focus from selling a variety of items to only pens and pencils, which aligns with the concept of a pharmacy selling writing instruments.
We’ve rebranded! Now we sell tiny tongs! : LITTLE SEIZERS (LITTLE CAESAR’S)
The answer "LITTLE SEIZERS (LITTLE CAESAR'S)" is the right solution because it is a play on words that combines the idea of selling small tongs ("tiny tongs") with the name of a well-known pizza chain ("Little Caesar's"). The rebranding aspect adds to the humor of the clue.
We’ve rebranded! Now, with 86-, we operate a test-taking facility/casino! : PROCTOR …
The answer is "PROCTOR" because a "proctor" can refer to both a person who supervises and administers tests, as well as a person who oversees gambling activities in a casino.
What a metronome sets : TEMPO
The answer "TEMPO" is the right solution because a metronome is a device used to keep time in music, and it sets the tempo or speed at which a piece of music should be played.
What C or D might indicate : AISLE SEAT
The answer "AISLE SEAT" is the right solution because the letters C or D in this context refer to the seating options on a plane. When booking a flight, passengers are often given the choice of an aisle seat, a window seat, or a middle seat. Therefore, "AISLE SEAT" is a fitting answer that matches the clue.
What lions use to hunt : STEALTH
The answer "STEALTH" is the right solution because lions rely on their ability to move quietly and remain unseen in order to successfully hunt their prey. They use their stealth to approach their targets without being detected, increasing their chances of a successful hunt.
What’s always in poems? : E’ER
The answer "E'ER" is a shortened form of the word "ever". It is commonly used in poetry to maintain the rhythm and meter of a line. Therefore, it is always present in poems.
Whence the line “O, how bitter a thing it is to look into happiness through another man’s eyes!” : AS YOU LIKE IT
The line "O, how bitter a thing it is to look into happiness through another man's eyes!" is from the play "As You Like It" by William Shakespeare.
Whisk-y business? : BAKERY
The clue "Whisk-y business?" is a play on words. "Whisk-y" sounds like "whiskey," but it actually refers to the action of whisking, which is commonly done in a bakery. Therefore, the answer "BAKERY" fits the clue.
With 22-, world capital selected by Queen Victoria : OTTAWA …
The answer "OTTAWA" is the right solution because it is the world capital that was selected by Queen Victoria.
Word with front or help : … DESK
The answer is "DESK" because it can be combined with the words "front" or "help" to form the common phrases "front desk" and "help desk."
Yeah? : IS IT?
The answer "IS IT?" fits the clue "Yeah?" because it is a common way of expressing doubt or seeking confirmation.
Yule ball? : ORNAMENT
The term "Yule" refers to Christmas or the winter holiday season. "Ball" can refer to a formal dance or a round decorative object. An "ornament" is a small, decorative item often associated with Christmas trees during the Yule season. Therefore, "ORNAMENT" is the right solution for the clue "Yule ball?"
___ bean : FAVA
The answer to "___ bean" is "FAVA" because fava beans are a type of bean commonly used in cooking.
___ Berg, baseball player turned spy : MOE
The answer is "MOE" because Moe Berg was a baseball player who later became a spy.
___ usual : PER
The answer to "___ usual" is "PER" because "per" means "according to" or "in accordance with". It is commonly used to indicate a standard or norm.
___, Cheatem and Howe (classic fake law firm) : DEWEY
The answer is "DEWEY" because "___, Cheatem, and Howe" is a classic phrase used to refer to a fake law firm in comedy sketches and jokes. The name "DEWEY" fits perfectly in the blank, creating a humorous and memorable combination.
ρ : RHO
The answer to "ρ" is "RHO" because in the Greek alphabet, "ρ" is pronounced as "rho".