Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 3 October 2023, Tuesday (10-03-23). 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.
Aldo of fashion : GUCCI
The answer to "Aldo of fashion" is "GUCCI" because Aldo Gucci was a renowned fashion designer and the founder of the luxury brand Gucci.
An aye for the eye? : NOD
The phrase "an aye for an eye" is a common saying meaning seeking revenge or retaliation. In this crossword clue, the wordplay is a play on words, replacing "aye" with "NOD," which means a slight movement of the head. This creates a clever twist, suggesting that instead of seeking revenge, the answer is a gentle gesture of agreement or acknowledgment.
Ancient Brit : PICT
The answer to "Ancient Brit" is "PICT" because the Picts were an ancient people who lived in what is now Scotland.
And so on : ETC
The answer to "And so on" is "Abbr." because "Abbr." is an abbreviation for "abbreviation," which means "and so on" or "etc."
Apathetic reaction : MEH
The word "meh" is often used to express indifference or apathy. It has become a popular slang term in recent years, making it a fitting answer for the clue "apathetic reaction."
Away from work, for short : OOO
The answer "OOO" stands for "Out of Office," which is a common abbreviation used to indicate that someone is away from work or not available. It is often used in email auto-replies or on voicemail messages.
Bea Arthur sitcom of the 1970s : MAUDE
The answer is "MAUDE" because it was a popular sitcom in the 1970s that starred Bea Arthur.
Bit of yoga equipment : MAT
The answer to "Bit of yoga equipment" is "MAT" because a mat is commonly used during yoga practice to provide cushioning and support for various poses and exercises.
Bluish-purple flower : IRIS
The bluish-purple flower is commonly associated with the iris.
Brightest light in Cygnus : DENEB
Deneb is the brightest star in the constellation Cygnus, making it the correct answer to the clue.
Brush up on old skills : RETRAIN
The word "retrain" means to learn or improve skills that were previously acquired. In the context of the clue "Brush up on old skills," "retrain" fits perfectly because it suggests refreshing or updating one's knowledge or abilities that may have been forgotten or become outdated.
Channel for armchair athletes : ESPN
The answer "ESPN" is the right solution because ESPN is a popular sports channel that broadcasts a wide variety of sports events and programs, making it a go-to choice for armchair athletes.
Cleaning cloth : RAG
The answer to "Cleaning cloth" is "RAG" because a rag is a common household item used for cleaning surfaces.
Clergy member : VICAR
The answer "VICAR" is the right solution because a vicar is a clergy member who is in charge of a parish or church.
Co-op that sells camping gear : REI
The answer to the clue "Co-op that sells camping gear" is "REI" because REI stands for Recreational Equipment, Inc., and it is a well-known co-op that specializes in selling outdoor and camping gear.
Common recyclable : SODA CAN
The answer "SODA CAN" is the right solution because it is a commonly recycled item. Soda cans are made of aluminum, which is a highly recyclable material. They are commonly collected and processed for recycling to reduce waste and conserve resources.
Composer Zimmer who won Oscars for “The Lion King” and “Dune” : HANS
The answer is "HANS" because Hans Zimmer is a composer who won Oscars for his work on "The Lion King" and "Dune".
Creature that grows longer in a classic video game (also in this puzzle, when it “eats” a black square) : SNAKE
The answer is "SNAKE" because in the classic video game, Snake, the creature starts small and grows longer as it eats black squares.
Crime lab evidence : DNA
The answer "DNA" is the right solution because it is commonly used as evidence in crime labs to help identify suspects and solve crimes. DNA is unique to each individual, making it a valuable tool in forensic investigations.
Ensemble : OUTFIT
The word "ensemble" refers to a coordinated outfit or a group of items that go together. "Outfit" fits this definition perfectly, making it the right solution for the crossword clue.
Erase : DELETE
The word "erase" means to remove or eliminate something. "DELETE" is the perfect answer as it means to remove or erase data or information from a computer or any other device.
Eventually brought results : BORE FRUIT
The phrase "bore fruit" is an idiomatic expression that means to eventually bring about positive or desired outcomes or results. In this context, the clue is asking for a phrase that describes something that eventually brought results. "Bore fruit" fits perfectly as it conveys the idea of something leading to successful outcomes over time.
Feature (in) : STAR
The answer "STAR" is the right solution because a star is a prominent feature in various contexts, such as in movies, music, or even in the night sky.
Frustrated cries : DRATS
The answer "DRATS" fits the clue "Frustrated cries" because "DRATS" is a common exclamation used to express annoyance or disappointment.
Frustrating find while folding laundry : ONE SOCK
The answer "ONE SOCK" is the right solution because when folding laundry, it is common to find only one sock instead of a matching pair. This can be frustrating as it means the other sock is missing.
Gateway to the West, on scoreboards : STL
The answer "STL" is the right solution because it is the abbreviation for St. Louis, which is commonly known as the "Gateway to the West." It is often displayed on scoreboards to represent the city.
Gave up a seat, maybe : STOOD
The answer "STOOD" fits the clue because when someone gives up a seat, they typically stand instead.
Hanukkah centerpiece : MENORAH
The answer "MENORAH" is the right solution because it is a traditional Jewish candelabrum that is prominently displayed during the holiday of Hanukkah.
Ice Bucket Challenge cause, for short : ALS
The Ice Bucket Challenge was a viral social media campaign that aimed to raise awareness and funds for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. Participants would pour a bucket of ice water over their heads and then nominate others to do the same or donate to ALS research. Therefore, "ALS" is the correct answer because it is the cause associated with the Ice Bucket Challenge.
In the open air, as a meal : ALFRESCO
The word "ALFRESCO" is derived from Italian, where it means "in the fresh air." In English, it is used to describe a meal or activity that takes place outdoors. Therefore, "ALFRESCO" is the right answer because it fits the clue "In the open air, as a meal."
John who sang “Crocodile Rock” : ELTON
The answer is "ELTON" because Elton John is a well-known singer who sang the hit song "Crocodile Rock."
Justice Gorsuch : NEIL
The answer to "Justice Gorsuch" is "NEIL" because Neil Gorsuch is the name of a current Supreme Court Justice.
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.
Language of ancient Syria : ARAMAIC
The answer "ARAMAIC" is the right solution because it is a language that was spoken in ancient Syria.
Lead-in to mode : A LA
The phrase "A LA" is a lead-in that means "in the style of" or "in the manner of" in French. It is commonly used in English to introduce a particular way of doing something. In this context, "Lead-in to mode" suggests that "A LA" is the appropriate answer, as it introduces a specific mode or style.
Letters before : //
Like 48-Downs, to Ireland : ALIEN
The answer "ALIEN" is the right solution because it describes the status of 48-Downs (foreigners) in Ireland.
Like basketball players vis-à-vis jockeys, typically : TALLER
The answer "TALLER" is the right solution because basketball players are generally taller than jockeys.
Like many appliances in modern homes : SMART
The answer "SMART" is the right solution because many appliances in modern homes are now equipped with smart technology, allowing them to connect to the internet and be controlled remotely or perform tasks autonomously.
Like the “legs” on a 48-Down : VESTIGIAL
The answer is "VESTIGIAL" because "legs" on a 48-Down refers to body parts that are no longer fully developed or functional. "VESTIGIAL" means something that has become reduced or obsolete over time, which perfectly fits the clue.
Little troublemaker : IMP
The word "IMP" is a suitable solution for the clue "Little troublemaker" because an imp is often depicted as a mischievous or troublesome creature in folklore and mythology.
Malek of “Mr. Robot” : RAMI
The answer is "RAMI" because Rami Malek is the actor who played the character in the TV show "Mr. Robot".
Mlle. : French
The abbreviation "Mlle." stands for "Mademoiselle" in French, which is used to address an unmarried woman. Therefore, the answer to the clue "Mlle." is "French".
Motormouth ___ (“Hairspray” role for Queen Latifah) : MAYBELLE
The answer is "MAYBELLE" because it is the name of the character played by Queen Latifah in the musical "Hairspray".
Mount Olympus figures : GODS
The answer "GODS" is the right solution because in Greek mythology, Mount Olympus is the home of the gods.
MTV prize whose trophy features an astronaut : VMA
The answer is "VMA" because the MTV Video Music Awards (VMA) is an annual award show where winners receive a trophy featuring an astronaut.
Native language in Oslo : NORSK
The answer "NORSK" is the right solution because it is the native language spoken in Oslo, which is the capital city of Norway.
Nest eggs, in brief : IRAS
The answer to "Nest eggs, in brief" is "IRAS" because IRAs are individual retirement accounts commonly used as a way to save money for retirement.
Number in the Gettysburg Address : SCORE
The word "score" refers to the number 20. In the Gettysburg Address, President Abraham Lincoln begins with the phrase "Four score and seven years ago," which means 87 years ago. Therefore, "score" is the correct answer to the clue.
One way to be taken : ABACK
The answer "ABACK" is the right solution because when someone is taken by surprise or caught off guard, they can be said to be taken aback.
Paid spots : ADS
The answer to "Paid spots" is "ADS" because "ADS" is a commonly used abbreviation for advertisements, which are spots that companies pay for to promote their products or services.
Parisian papa : PERE
The answer "PERE" is the right solution because "pere" is the French word for father, and "Parisian papa" is a clue indicating that we are looking for a French word for father.
Pass without notice : SNEAK BY
The answer "SNEAK BY" fits the clue "Pass without notice" because it suggests the act of moving past someone or something quietly and unnoticed.
Places for patellas : KNEES Down 1 Slings mud at, in a campaign
The answer to "Places for patellas" is "KNEES" because the word "patellas" refers to the kneecaps, and the clue is asking for the location of these kneecaps. The word "knees" fits perfectly as it is the correct anatomical term for where the patellas are located.
Roman goddess who is the equivalent of the Greek Nike : VICTORIA
The answer is "VICTORIA" because she is the Roman goddess who is equivalent to the Greek goddess Nike.
Rulers of the Aztecs and Incas : EMPERORS
The Aztecs and Incas were ancient civilizations that had rulers with supreme authority. These rulers were known as "emperors."
Section of a long poem : CANTO
The answer to "Section of a long poem" is "CANTO" because a canto is a division or section of an epic or long narrative poem. It helps organize the poem and allows the reader to navigate through different parts of the story.
Sewing targets : RIPS
The answer "RIPS" is the right solution to the clue "Sewing targets" because when you sew, you aim to create straight and even stitches. However, if you make a mistake or the fabric tears, it creates rips that need to be fixed.
Shape of some curves : ESS
The answer "ESS" is the right solution because it refers to the shape of the letter "S," which is a common curve shape found in various contexts.
Smelly smell : ODOR
The answer "ODOR" is the right solution because it refers to a smelly smell. It is a short and simple word that accurately represents the clue.
Stick (out) : JUT
The word "jut" means to extend or protrude outwards. It perfectly fits the clue "Stick (out)" as it describes something that is sticking out or projecting.
Take home : NET
The answer "NET" is the right solution because it refers to the amount of money you receive after taxes and deductions are taken out, which is what you "take home" from your paycheck.
Teaches : INSTRUCTS
The word "instructs" is the right solution because it means to teach or provide knowledge or guidance to someone.
Transcription pros : STENOS
The answer "STENOS" is the right solution because "STENOS" is a common abbreviation for stenographers, who are professionals skilled in transcription.
Ugly beast : OGRE
The answer to "Ugly beast" is "OGRE" because an ogre is commonly depicted as a large, hideous creature in fairy tales and folklore.
Where one might be represented by an avatar : ONLINE
The answer is "ONLINE" because avatars are typically used to represent individuals in virtual or online spaces.
Where sticky fingers might be caught : COOKIE JAR
The answer "COOKIE JAR" is the right solution because it is a common place where people store cookies. Sticky fingers might be caught in the cookie jar because someone might try to sneak a cookie and get caught in the act.
Wild pigs : BOARS
The answer to "Wild pigs" is "BOARS" because boars are a type of wild pig.
___ State (Idaho nickname) : GEM
The answer is "GEM" because Idaho is often referred to as the "Gem State" due to its abundance of precious gemstones like garnets and star garnets.
“In your dreams!” : AS IF!
The phrase "as if" is commonly used to dismiss or express disbelief in something, making it a fitting response to the clue "In your dreams!" which implies something is unlikely or impossible.
“La ___” (1958 Ritchie Valens hit) : BAMBA
The answer is "BAMBA" because it completes the title of the famous 1958 Ritchie Valens hit song, "La Bamba."
“S.N.L.” alum Carvey : DANA
The answer is "DANA" because Dana Carvey is a well-known former cast member of "Saturday Night Live" (S.N.L.).
“Sunday Morning” airer : CBS
The answer is "CBS" because "Sunday Morning" is a popular television show that airs on the CBS network.