Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 4 October 2023, Wednesday (10-04-23). 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.
Abate : LESSEN Down 1 Each
The answer to "Abate" is "LESSEN" because "abate" means to become less intense or to decrease, which is synonymous with "lessen." The word "each" is a clue for the letter "E" in the answer.
Answered a charge : PLED
The answer "PLED" is the right solution because it is the past tense of the verb "plead," which means to respond to a charge or accusation in a legal context.
Apt name for a karaoke star : MIKE
The answer "MIKE" is the right solution because it is a common name that sounds like "mic," which is short for microphone. In karaoke, singers use microphones, so "MIKE" is an apt name for a karaoke star.
Archaeological projects : DIGS
The word "DIGS" is commonly used to refer to archaeological projects. It is a short and simple term that is often used in crossword puzzles to clue in solvers about this specific context.
At attention : ERECT
The word "ERECT" means standing up straight with good posture, which is similar to being "at attention."
Australian export : OPAL
The answer to "Australian export" is "OPAL" because opals are a precious gemstone that is primarily mined in Australia.
Bad thing to do in class : SLEEP
The answer "SLEEP" is the right solution because it is generally considered inappropriate to sleep in class.
Band aids : AMPS
The answer "AMPS" is the right solution because "Band aids" refers to devices that amplify sound, which are commonly known as amplifiers, or "AMPS" for short.
Bench press muscle, informally : PEC
The answer to "Bench press muscle, informally" is "PEC" because the pectoralis major muscle, commonly referred to as the "pecs," is the primary muscle used during the bench press exercise.
Big Apple clothing brand : DKNY
The answer "DKNY" is the right solution because it is a well-known clothing brand based in New York City, which is often referred to as the "Big Apple."
Block ending : -ADE
The answer to "Block ending" is "-ADE" because it refers to the ending of a word that means a block or a solid object. The letters "-ADE" are commonly found at the end of words like "lemonade" or "promenade," which are related to the concept of a block or a solid structure.
Boats or bothers : ARKS or IRKS
The answer "ARKS" fits the clue "Boats" because an ark is a type of boat, specifically a large, flat-bottomed vessel. The answer "IRKS" fits the clue "Bothers" because it means to annoy or irritate someone.
Bond, for one : SPY
The answer to "Bond, for one" is "SPY" because James Bond is a famous fictional character known for being a spy.
C-shaped tool : CLAMP
The answer "CLAMP" is the right solution for the clue "C-shaped tool" because a clamp is a tool that is often shaped like the letter "C" and is used to hold objects tightly together.
Cabo cheer : OLE!
The answer "OLE!" is the right solution because it is a common cheer or exclamation used in Spanish-speaking countries, including Mexico where Cabo San Lucas is located.
Cast aspersions on : DEFAME
The word "defame" means to cast aspersions or speak negatively about someone, which aligns perfectly with the clue "cast aspersions on." Therefore, "defame" is the right solution.
Central Plains nation : PAWNEE
The answer to "Central Plains nation" is "PAWNEE" because the Pawnee tribe historically inhabited the Central Plains region of North America.
Comedy club division : SET
The answer to "Comedy club division" being "SET" is because in a comedy club, a set refers to a specific performance or act by a comedian. It is a common term used to describe the individual segments or routines that make up a comedian's performance.
Cousins of daisies : ASTERS
The answer to "Cousins of daisies" is "ASTERS" because asters are a type of flower that belong to the same family as daisies.
Dynamos or menus : BALLS OF FIRE or BILLS OF FARE
The answer to "Dynamos or menus" is "BALLS OF FIRE or BILLS OF FARE" because both "dynamos" and "menus" are examples of things that generate energy or provide options, respectively. "Balls of fire" can be interpreted as a metaphor for dynamos generating energy, while "bills of fare" refers to menus offering a selection of food options.
Eden-to-Nod direction : EAST
The answer to "Eden-to-Nod direction" is "EAST" because in the Bible, the Garden of Eden is said to be located in the east, and Nod is mentioned as being east of Eden. Therefore, the direction from Eden to Nod is east.
Fa-la connection : SOL
The answer "SOL" is the right solution because "Fa-la" refers to the solfège syllables used in music, and "SOL" is the specific syllable that corresponds to the note G.
Fallen angel or luxurious fabric : SATAN or SATIN
The answer to "Fallen angel or luxurious fabric" is "SATAN or SATIN" because SATAN is a fallen angel in religious mythology, and SATIN is a luxurious fabric often used for elegant clothing or bedding.
Fly in the face, e.g. : PEST
The answer "PEST" is the right solution because a fly is a common example of a pest that can be annoying or bothersome, hence "fly in the face."
Free-for-all : MELEE
The answer "MELEE" is the right solution to the clue "Free-for-all" because a melee refers to a chaotic and uncontrolled fight or brawl involving multiple people. It accurately captures the idea of a situation where everyone is engaged in a disorderly and unrestricted confrontation.
Fuji fungus : ENOKI
The answer "ENOKI" is the right solution to the clue "Fuji fungus" because "ENOKI" is a type of edible mushroom that is commonly found in Japan, including the Mount Fuji region.
Go to ___ : POT
The answer to "Go to ___" is "POT" because "pot" is a slang term for a toilet.
Green land or garland : LEA or LEI
The answer to "Green land or garland" is "LEA or LEI" because both "LEA" and "LEI" are homophones (words that sound the same) for "green land" and "garland" respectively.
Highest of highs : ACME
Hollywood’s ___ Rachel Wood : EVAN
The answer to "Hollywood’s ___ Rachel Wood" is "EVAN" because Evan Rachel Wood is an American actress known for her roles in Hollywood films.
Home to Iolani Palace : OAHU
The answer to "Home to Iolani Palace" is "OAHU" because Iolani Palace is located in Honolulu, which is on the island of Oahu in Hawaii.
In good shape : SOLID
The answer "SOLID" fits the clue "In good shape" because it means strong, firm, or stable, which is a common way to describe something that is in good condition.
In public : SEEN
The answer "SEEN" is the right solution to the clue "In public" because when you are "seen," it means that you are observed or noticed by others, which typically happens in public.
It can be cured : HAM
The answer to "It can be cured" is "HAM" because ham is a type of meat that undergoes a curing process to preserve it.
Kind of soldier : TIN
Like some pitches : RESINY
The answer "RESINY" is the right solution because it describes a characteristic of some pitches. Pitches can be sticky or resinous in nature, making "RESINY" an appropriate adjective to describe them.
Lines on an airline map : ARCS
The answer "ARCS" is the right solution because lines on an airline map are typically curved or arched, resembling arcs.
Lip cover or bettor’s pile : CHAPSTICK or CHIP STACK
The answer to "Lip cover or bettor’s pile" is "CHAPSTICK or CHIP STACK". - CHAPSTICK is a lip cover that is used to moisturize and protect the lips. - CHIP STACK refers to the pile of chips that a bettor has in a poker game. Both options fit the clue as they are related to either lip cover or a bettor's pile.
Lofty spot for brooding : AERIE
The word "aerie" refers to a high and secluded spot where birds of prey, such as eagles or hawks, build their nests. It fits the clue "Lofty spot for brooding" because it suggests a high location where someone might go to think or reflect.
Longtime pugilists’ grp. : WBA
The answer to "Longtime pugilists' grp." is "WBA" because WBA stands for World Boxing Association, which is a well-known organization that governs professional boxing matches.
Loud, visually : GARISH
The word "garish" means excessively bright or showy in a loud and flashy way. It perfectly describes something that is visually loud or obtrusive. Therefore, "garish" is the right answer for the clue "Loud, visually."
Many a subject of the E! channel : CELEB
The answer "CELEB" is short for "celebrity." The clue mentions the E! channel, which is known for its coverage of famous people or celebrities. Therefore, "CELEB" is the right solution that fits the clue.
Material for a loom : YARN
The answer to "Material for a loom" is "YARN" because yarn is the thread-like material that is used in weaving on a loom. It is commonly used to create fabric or textiles.
Much-studied micro-organism : AMOEBA
The answer to the clue "Much-studied micro-organism" is "AMOEBA" because amoebas are single-celled microorganisms that have been extensively studied by scientists. They are commonly used in biological research and are known for their ability to change shape and move using pseudopods.
Nevada mining town : ELY
The answer "ELY" is the right solution because Ely is a well-known mining town located in Nevada.
Nile danger : ASP
The answer "ASP" is the right solution because the Nile danger refers to a venomous snake called the Egyptian cobra, which is commonly known as an ASP.
Oars in pairs : SCULLS
The answer "SCULLS" is the right solution because it refers to a type of oars used in pairs by rowers.
On the record, in a way, though not on a record : TAPED
The answer is "TAPED" because it means recording something, like an interview or a conversation, but not necessarily on a physical record.
Parishioner’s portion, perhaps : TITHE
The answer "TITHE" is the right solution because a tithe is a portion of one's income that is given to the church by a parishioner as a religious obligation or act of worship.
Picked dos : AFROS
The answer "AFROS" is the right solution because "dos" is a slang term for hairstyles, and "AFROS" refers specifically to a type of hairstyle characterized by natural, voluminous, and curly hair.
Relative of a hogshead : KEG
The answer to "Relative of a hogshead" is "KEG" because a hogshead is a large barrel used for storing liquids, and a keg is a smaller barrel that is also used for the same purpose. They are both containers for liquids, making them relatives in terms of their function.
Sensational scoring feats or sensational songs : HAT TRICKS or HOT TRACKS
The answer to "Sensational scoring feats or sensational songs" is "HAT TRICKS or HOT TRACKS" because both "hat tricks" and "hot tracks" refer to impressive and outstanding achievements. "Hat tricks" are three goals scored by a player in a single game in sports like hockey or soccer, while "hot tracks" are popular and exciting songs that create a buzz.
Singer Grande, to fans : ARI
The answer to "Singer Grande, to fans" is "ARI" because it is a common nickname for the singer Ariana Grande.
Singer with the “Living Proof” farewell tour (2002-05) … as well as a “Here We Go Again” tour (2018-20) : CHER
The answer is "CHER" because Cher is a singer who had a farewell tour called "Living Proof" from 2002-05 and another tour called "Here We Go Again" from 2018-20.
Social group : TRIBE
The answer "TRIBE" is the right solution because a tribe is a social group of people who share common customs, traditions, and often live together in a specific geographical area.
Squarish? : UNHIP
The answer "UNHIP" is the right solution for the clue "Squarish?" because it suggests being out of touch or not trendy, which is the opposite of being hip or cool.
Story or mosaic piece : TALE or TILE
The answer to "Story or mosaic piece" can be either "TALE" or "TILE" because both words fit the clue. A "TALE" is a story, while a "TILE" can be a small piece used in creating a mosaic.
Stuffs or spots : SATES or SITES
The answer to "Stuffs or spots" is "SATES or SITES" because both words can fit the clue. "SATES" means to stuff oneself with food, while "SITES" refers to locations or spots.
Superfluous : OTIOSE
The word "otiose" means unnecessary or superfluous. It is a suitable answer to the clue "Superfluous" because it directly matches the definition and is a commonly used synonym for the given meaning.
Surprise element in the “Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy” trilogy : PART IV
Think ___ : TWICE
The phrase "Think ___" implies that you need to consider something more than once. The word "TWICE" fits perfectly as it means doing something two times, which aligns with the idea of thinking twice before making a decision.
Tickle pink or top-notch : ELATE or ELITE
The clue "Tickle pink or top-notch" is a wordplay clue. "Tickle pink" is an expression meaning to make someone extremely happy or delighted, which is synonymous with the word "elate." "Top-notch" means of the highest quality or superior, which is synonymous with the word "elite." Therefore, the answer to this clue can be either "ELATE" or "ELITE."
U-___ : HAUL
The answer to "U-___" is "HAUL" because "U-" is a prefix meaning "under" or "beneath," and "HAUL" means to pull or transport something. So, "U-HAUL" is a well-known company that specializes in renting trucks and trailers for moving purposes.
Underlying or salad herb : BASAL or “BASIL
The answer to "Underlying or salad herb" is "BASAL or BASIL" because both words fit the clue. "BASAL" means underlying or at the base, while "BASIL" is a common herb used in salads.
Vintage vehicle : REO
The answer "REO" is the right solution because it is a well-known brand of vintage vehicles that were manufactured from 1905 to 1975.
Walks fancily or some rulers : PRANCES or PRINCES
The answer to "Walks fancily or some rulers" is "PRANCES". This is because "walks fancily" is a clue for the word "PRANCES," which means to walk with exaggerated, elegant movements. The phrase "some rulers" is a hint that the answer could also be "PRINCES," as they can be considered rulers in certain contexts. However, "PRANCES" is a more direct and fitting answer based on the clue.
What to compile before travel or a “choice” that’s not really a choice : PACKING LIST or PICKING LAST
The answer is "PACKING LIST" because before travel, it is common to compile a list of items to pack. This list helps ensure that nothing important is forgotten. "PICKING LAST" is not a valid solution for this clue.
Will supplement : CODICIL
The answer to "Will supplement" is "CODICIL" because a codicil is a legal document that adds or supplements provisions to a will.
___ diem : CARPE
The answer to "___ diem" is "CARPE" because "CARPE" is the Latin word for "seize" or "pluck." In the phrase "carpe diem," it means "seize the day."
“Moby-Dick” subject : WHALING
The answer "WHALING" is the right solution because "Moby-Dick" is a famous novel written by Herman Melville that revolves around the theme of hunting and pursuing whales. Therefore, the subject of "Moby-Dick" is directly related to whaling.
“This Is Just to Say” by William Carlos Williams, essentially : APOLOGY
The answer "APOLOGY" fits the clue because "This Is Just to Say" is a famous poem by William Carlos Williams that can be interpreted as an apology.