Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 22 October 2023, Sunday (10-22-23). 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.
1500 Pennsylvania Ave., e.g. : Abbr.
The answer "Abbr." is short for "abbreviation." In this clue, "1500 Pennsylvania Ave., e.g." is referring to an abbreviation. Therefore, "Abbr." is the right solution.
2001 biopic starring Will Smith : ALI
The answer is "ALI" because it is a biopic that was released in 2001 and starred Will Smith as the legendary boxer Muhammad Ali.
A, abroad : UNE
The answer "UNE" is the right solution for the clue "A, abroad" because in French, the indefinite article "a" is translated as "une" when referring to a feminine noun.
Actress Kurylenko of “Black Widow” : OLGA
The answer is "OLGA" because Olga Kurylenko is an actress who appeared in the movie "Black Widow".
Acts coy in salary negotiations? : DOESN’T GIVE A FIGURE (from “doesn’t give a fig”)
The phrase "doesn't give a fig" means not caring or showing indifference. In the context of salary negotiations, "acting coy" refers to someone being hesitant or evasive about revealing their desired salary. So, "doesn't give a figure" is a clever play on words that captures the idea of someone not disclosing their salary expectations, which aligns with the clue.
Age for a Latin American celebration : FIFTEEN
The Latin American celebration referred to in the clue is the quinceañera, which is a traditional coming-of-age celebration for girls turning fifteen. Therefore, the answer "FIFTEEN" is the correct solution.
Almost spherical in shape : OBLATE
The word "oblate" means flattened or elongated at the poles, which is the opposite of being perfectly spherical. Therefore, "oblate" is the right answer for something that is almost spherical in shape.
Alternative to high water, in an idiom : HELL
The idiom "high water" is often used to refer to a challenging or difficult situation. The alternative to high water is "hell," which also represents a difficult or unpleasant state. Therefore, "HELL" is the right answer.
Among others, for short : ET AL
The answer to "Among others, for short" is "ET AL" because "et al" is an abbreviation of the Latin phrase "et alii" which means "and others." It is commonly used to refer to additional unnamed people or things.
Antagonist : FOE
The word "FOE" is the right answer because it means an enemy or adversary, which is synonymous with an antagonist.
Approach : NEAR
The word "approach" means to come closer to something or someone. The word "near" is a synonym for this meaning, making it the right answer for the crossword clue.
Aquatic barker : SEAL
The answer to "Aquatic barker" is "SEAL" because a seal is a type of aquatic mammal that makes barking sounds.
Basis for a fortuneteller’s romantic prediction : LOVE LINE
The answer "LOVE LINE" is the right solution because it refers to the basis or foundation for a fortuneteller's prediction about romance. A "love line" is a term commonly used in palmistry to indicate the lines on a person's hand that are believed to reveal information about their love life and relationships.
Batter’s need : EGGS
The answer to "Batter's need" is "EGGS" because eggs are a common ingredient used in baking to help bind the batter together and provide moisture.
Batter’s objective : HIT
The batter's objective in baseball is to hit the ball, making "HIT" the right solution for this clue.
Be a partner with in crime : ABET
The answer "ABET" is the right solution because it means to assist or encourage someone in committing a crime.
Belonging to a particular time : OF AN ERA
The answer "OF AN ERA" fits the clue "Belonging to a particular time" because it indicates something that is characteristic or representative of a specific period in history.
Biblical grandson of Adam and Eve : ENOS
The biblical grandson of Adam and Eve is ENOS because he is mentioned in the book of Genesis as the son of Seth and the grandson of Adam and Eve.
Blessing : BOON
The answer "BOON" fits the clue "Blessing" because a boon refers to something that is helpful, beneficial, or advantageous, which is often associated with blessings.
Bowlful with Thai basil and bean sprouts : PHO
The answer to "Bowlful with Thai basil and bean sprouts" is "PHO" because "PHO" is a Vietnamese soup that typically includes Thai basil and bean sprouts as ingredients.
Bungee jumping on Tuesday, skydiving on Wednesday, etc.? : ADVENTURE CALENDAR (from “Advent calendar”)
The answer "ADVENTURE CALENDAR" fits the clue because it refers to a calendar that offers different exciting activities or experiences on different days, such as bungee jumping on Tuesday and skydiving on Wednesday.
Business card abbr. : TEL
The answer to "Business card abbr." is "STE" because it is short for "Suite," which is commonly used to indicate a specific office or unit within a larger business or building.
Celeb’s hangout : VIP ROOM
The answer "VIP ROOM" is the right solution because celebrities often have access to exclusive areas in establishments, and the VIP room is a common hangout spot for them.
Clichéd name for a lab assistant : IGOR
The name "IGOR" is a clichéd and commonly used name for a lab assistant in movies, books, and popular culture. It has become a recognizable and stereotypical name associated with lab assistants, making it the right solution for this crossword clue.
Components of some kitschy clocks : CUCKOOS
The answer "CUCKOOS" is the right solution because cuckoos are often found in kitschy clocks. They are the components that pop out and make a cuckoo sound on the hour.
D.C. tiebreakers, at times : VPS
The answer "VPS" stands for "Vice Presidents." In Washington D.C., the Vice Presidents often serve as tiebreakers in the event of a tie vote in the Senate. Therefore, "D.C. tiebreakers, at times" refers to VPs.
Dadaist Jean : ARP
The answer "ARP" is the right solution because Jean Arp was a prominent Dadaist artist known for his abstract sculptures and collages.
Diagnostic using an injected tracer : DYE TEST
The answer "DYE TEST" is the right solution because a dye test is a diagnostic procedure where a tracer dye is injected into a system or body to identify any leaks, blockages, or abnormalities.
Dismissive rejection : NAH
The answer "NAH" is a dismissive rejection because it is a casual and informal way of saying "no." It is commonly used in conversation to express a lack of interest or agreement.
Disney’s ___ of Arendelle : ELSA
The answer is "ELSA" because Elsa is the main character from Disney's movie "Frozen" and she is the queen of Arendelle.
Disposables kept as mementos : EPHEMERA
The word "EPHEMERA" refers to items that are meant to be used or enjoyed for a short period of time and then discarded. These items are often kept as mementos because they hold sentimental value. Therefore, "EPHEMERA" is the right answer for "Disposables kept as mementos."
Do something illegal around a basketball hoop : GOAL-TEND
The answer "GOAL-TEND" is the right solution because it refers to the act of illegally interfering with a basketball shot by touching the ball while it is on its way down towards the hoop. This action is against the rules in basketball, making it an illegal move.
Document that may be kept in a lockbox : DEED
The answer to the clue "Document that may be kept in a lockbox" is "DEED" because a deed is a legal document that proves ownership of a property or land. It is often kept in a secure place like a lockbox for safekeeping.
Drift (off) : NOD
The answer "NOD" fits the clue "Drift (off)" because when someone nods, they often do so when they start to fall asleep or lose focus.
Escapes are made by them : FORD
The answer "FORD" is the right solution because "Escapes" in this clue refers to the act of escaping, and "are made by them" suggests that the answer is a company or entity that produces escapes. Ford is a well-known automobile company that manufactures the Ford Escape model, making it the correct answer in this context.
Face-off : DUEL
The word "face-off" refers to a confrontation or conflict between two individuals or groups. A duel is a specific type of face-off where two people engage in a formal combat. Therefore, "duel" is the right answer as it perfectly matches the clue.
Facepalm : I’M A MORON!
The answer "I'M A MORON!" is the right solution because when someone facepalms, it is often an expression of frustration or embarrassment due to their own foolish or silly actions. "I'M A MORON!" captures this sentiment perfectly.
Footwear craze of the early 2000s : UGGS
The answer is "UGGS" because UGGs became a popular footwear craze in the early 2000s.
Fox coverage? : FUR
The answer to "Fox coverage?" is "FUR" because foxes are known for their fur, which is often used as a symbol of their coverage or protection.
Gadget for a wine enthusiast : AERATOR
The answer "AERATOR" is the right solution because it is a gadget specifically designed for wine enthusiasts. An aerator helps to enhance the flavor and aroma of wine by exposing it to air, allowing it to breathe and reach its full potential.
Give a ticket : CITE
The answer to "Give a ticket" is "CITE" because "CITE" means to officially issue a ticket or citation to someone for a violation or offense.
Go out with : SEE
The answer "SEE" for the clue "Go out with" is correct because "SEE" can mean to spend time with someone socially, which aligns with the idea of going out with someone.
Govt. funds for mom-and-pop shops : SBA LOANS
The answer "SBA LOANS" is the right solution because the SBA (Small Business Administration) provides government funds specifically designed to support small businesses, including mom-and-pop shops. These loans are meant to help with financing and support the growth and development of small businesses.
Greyhound’s competition : DOG RACE
The answer "DOG RACE" is the right solution because greyhounds are a specific breed of dogs known for their speed and agility, and they often compete in races against each other. Therefore, "DOG RACE" is the competition that greyhounds participate in.
Had a following : LED
The answer "LED" is the right solution because it means "had a following" in the sense of being in front and guiding others. It is a past tense verb form of the word "lead".
Head for business? : CEO
The answer to "Head for business?" is "CEO" because "CEO" stands for Chief Executive Officer, which is the head or leader of a company or business.
Heap affection (on) : DOTE
The answer "DOTE" is the right solution because it means to heap affection on someone.
Heart-pumping activity : CARDIO
The answer "CARDIO" is the right solution because it refers to cardiovascular exercise, which is known for increasing heart rate and pumping blood throughout the body.
Highly rated French vineyards : CRUS
The answer "CRUS" is the right solution because "CRUS" refers to highly rated French vineyards. In the context of wine, "CRUS" is a term used to designate vineyards or wine-producing regions of superior quality in France.
In the altogether : NUDE
The phrase "in the altogether" is a euphemism for being completely naked. The word "nude" is a direct synonym for being naked, making it the correct answer to the clue.
Issa who plays President Barbie in “Barbie” : RAE
It can be a strain on the pupils : COURSE LOAD
The answer "COURSE LOAD" is the right solution because it refers to the amount of academic work or classes that students have to complete within a given period. It can be a strain on the pupils because it requires a significant amount of time and effort to manage and complete all the required coursework.
Jockey (for) : VIE
The answer "VIE" is the right solution for the clue "Jockey (for)" because "vie" means to compete or contend for something, which is what jockeys do in a race.
Journalist Ifill : GWEN
The answer to "Journalist Ifill" is "GWEN" because Gwen Ifill was a well-known journalist and television anchor.
Kitties : POTS
Less trustful (of) : LEERIER
The answer "LEERIER" fits the clue "Less trustful (of)" because it means more suspicious or cautious. It is formed by adding the comparative suffix "-IER" to the word "LEERY," which means wary or distrustful.
Lid malady : STYE
The answer "STYE" is the right solution because a stye is a common lid malady, referring to a painful red bump that can occur on the edge of the eyelid.
Like some displays of wealth : OBSCENE
The answer "OBSCENE" is the right solution because it describes displays of wealth that are excessive, extravagant, and offensive to others.
Little demon : IMP
The answer "IMP" is the right solution because an imp is a small demon in folklore and mythology.
Lone word? : SOLO
The clue "Lone word?" is a play on words. "Lone" suggests being alone or solitary, while "word" refers to a single unit of language. The answer "SOLO" fits perfectly as it means doing something alone or individually.
Memo starter : IN RE
"INRE" is a Latin term that means "in the matter of" or "concerning." It is commonly used in legal writing to introduce the subject or topic of a memo or document. Therefore, "Memo starter" can be clued as "INRE."
Mens ___ (legal concept) : REA
The answer to "Mens ___ (legal concept)" is "REA" because "Mens rea" is a Latin term used in law to refer to the mental state or intention of a person while committing a crime. "Rea" is the abbreviated form of "mens rea."
Most showily aesthetic : ARTIEST
The word "ARTIEST" is the right solution because it describes someone or something that is the most showily aesthetic. The word "artiest" is derived from the word "art," which is associated with creativity and aesthetics. Therefore, "ARTIEST" is the most fitting answer for the clue.
Mother figure : NUN
The answer "NUN" is the right solution because nuns are often seen as mother figures in religious communities, providing care, guidance, and support to others.
Munitions compounds : NITERS
The answer "NITERS" is the right solution because "NITERS" is an anagram of "INSERT," which can mean to put something into something else. In the context of the clue "Munitions compounds," "INSERT" can refer to inserting explosives or ammunition into a compound.
Nail polish remover : ACETONE
The answer to "Nail polish remover" is "ACETONE" because acetone is a common chemical solvent that effectively removes nail polish.
New ___ : AGER
The answer to "New ___" is "AGER" because "ager" is a term used to describe a person who is new to a particular activity or profession.
Newspaper write-up that’s light on criticism? : NO MEAN FEATURE (from “no mean feat”)
The answer "NO MEAN FEATURE" is a play on the phrase "no mean feat," which means something impressive or difficult to achieve. In this clue, "Newspaper write-up that's light on criticism," the word "feature" suggests an article or write-up in a newspaper. The phrase "light on criticism" indicates that the write-up does not contain much negative feedback. Therefore, "NO MEAN FEATURE" fits the clue as it implies a positive write-up without harsh criticism.
Nightfall : DAY’S END
The answer "DAY'S END" fits the clue "Nightfall" because it refers to the end of the day when darkness begins to set in.
Nintendo Switch predecessor : WII U
The Nintendo Switch predecessor is the WII U because it was the console released by Nintendo before the Switch.
Nourish : FEED
The word "FEED" is the right answer because it means to provide food or nourishment to someone or something.
Number that sounds like a past-tense verb : ONE
The number "ONE" sounds like the past-tense verb "won."
Object with one hole or two, depending on whom you ask : TUBE
The answer to the clue "Object with one hole or two, depending on whom you ask" is "TUBE" because a tube can be seen as having one hole (an opening at one end) or two holes (openings at both ends), depending on the perspective of the person observing it.
Oft-relied-upon : GO-TO
The term "go-to" is commonly used to describe something or someone that is frequently relied upon or used. In the context of the clue "oft-relied-upon," "go-to" perfectly fits the definition, making it the right solution.
O’Hare identifier : ORD Down 1 Eccentrics
The answer to "O'Hare identifier" is "ORD" because ORD is the three-letter code used to identify O'Hare International Airport in Chicago.
Pairing for an entrecôte or filet mignon, perhaps : VIN ROUGE
The answer "VIN ROUGE" is the right solution because it refers to a specific type of beverage that pairs well with entrecôte or filet mignon, which are types of steak. "VIN ROUGE" translates to "red wine" in French, and red wine is commonly enjoyed with these types of dishes.
Past-tense verb that sounds like a number : ATE
The answer to "Past-tense verb that sounds like a number" is "ATE" because it sounds like the number "eight" when pronounced.
Play opener : ACT I
The answer "ACT I" is the right solution because it refers to the opening section of a play. It is commonly used to denote the beginning of a theatrical performance.
Pop singer Grande, to fans : ARI
The answer is "ARI" because it is a common nickname for the pop singer Ariana Grande.
Pop star Rita : ORA
The answer to "Pop star Rita" is "ORA" because Rita Ora is a well-known pop star.
Porpoise, in old usage : SEA HOG
"Sea hog" is the right solution because it is an old term used to describe a porpoise.
Pub lineup : ALES
The answer to "Pub lineup" is "ALES" because "ALES" refers to the different types of beer that are typically served in a pub.
Public stance of a member of Congress? : WASHINGTON POSTURE (from “Washington Post”)
The answer "WASHINGTON POSTURE" is the right solution because it cleverly combines the concept of a public stance, which refers to a position or opinion taken by a member of Congress, with the term "Washington Post," which is a well-known newspaper. The wordplay in the clue suggests that the answer is a play on words, creating a humorous and fitting solution.
Relative of a musette : OBOE
The musette is a type of bagpipe, and the oboe is a woodwind instrument that is related to the bagpipe family. Therefore, the oboe is a relative of the musette.
Road workers’ gloop : TAR
The answer "TAR" is the right solution because road workers often use tar to repair and resurface roads.
Sat ___ : NAV
The answer "NAV" is short for "navigation," which is commonly used as an abbreviation for satellite navigation systems. Therefore, "Sat ___" is a clue that hints at the abbreviation "NAV" as the correct answer.
Served a sentence : DID TIME
The answer "DID TIME" is the right solution because it is a common phrase used to describe someone who has served a prison sentence.
Shares one’s bunk? : LIES
The answer "LIES" fits the clue "Shares one's bunk?" because it suggests that someone is not telling the truth or sharing false information.
Shepherd’s job, essentially? : PASTURE CARING (from “past caring”)
The answer "PASTURE CARING" is the right solution because it is a play on words. The clue refers to a shepherd's job, which involves caring for sheep. The phrase "past caring" is a common expression meaning not caring anymore. By combining these two ideas, we get "PASTURE CARING," which cleverly suggests the shepherd's job of caring for sheep in a pasture.
Show off one’s vocal range and stamina? : ENDURE ON A HIGH NOTE (from “end on a high note”)
The phrase "end on a high note" means to finish something in a positive or impressive way. In this clue, the answer "ENDURE ON A HIGH NOTE" is a play on that phrase, suggesting that someone is showing off their vocal range and stamina by continuing to sing impressively until the end.
Singer Easton : SHEENA
The answer to "Singer Easton" is "SHEENA" because Sheena Easton is a Scottish singer who gained popularity in the 1980s.
Singer Ronnie of the Ronettes : SPECTOR
The answer is "SPECTOR" because Ronnie Spector is a well-known singer from the girl group "The Ronettes." The clue specifically mentions her as the singer, and "SPECTOR" is her last name.
Small dosage qtys. : MGS
The answer "MGS" is the right solution because it is a common abbreviation for milligrams, which is a unit of measurement often used for small dosage quantities in medicine.
Small, cutesily : LIL’
The answer "LIL'" is the right solution because it is a shortened form of the word "little," which fits the clue "Small, cutesily."
Soaks : STEEPS
The answer to "Soaks" is "STEEPS" because steeping involves immersing something in a liquid, like tea leaves in hot water, to extract flavor or nutrients.
Some informants, informally : STOOLIES
The answer "STOOLIES" fits the clue because it is a slang term for informants.
Some unique digits : Abbr.
The answer to "Some unique digits" is "Abbr." because "Abbr." is short for abbreviation, which means it represents a shortened form of a word or phrase. In this case, it implies that the answer consists of abbreviated or shortened unique digits.
Something a Brazilian is unlikely to wax : SKI
The answer "SKI" is the right solution because Brazil is a tropical country with no snow, making it highly unlikely for a Brazilian to wax skis.
Standoffish : ALOOF
The word "ALOOF" means distant or unapproachable, which perfectly describes someone who is standoffish.
Summon, in a way : PAGE
The word "PAGE" can mean to summon someone by sending them a message or notification, typically through a pager or electronic device.
Swamplike : MIRY
The word "miry" means swampy or boggy, making it a perfect fit for the clue "swamplike."
Take in : READ
"EARN" is a synonym for "take in" in the sense of making money or receiving income.
The world’s best-selling planes : CESSNAS
The answer "CESSNAS" is the right solution because Cessna is a well-known and popular brand of aircraft, particularly for small planes. They have consistently been one of the best-selling plane manufacturers worldwide.
They’re craze-y! : FADS
The answer "FADS" is the right solution because the word "craze-y" indicates something that is trendy or popular for a short period of time. "FADS" are exactly that - they are temporary trends or crazes that gain popularity and then fade away.
Top-of-the-line Mercedes : S-CLASS
The answer "S-CLASS" is the right solution because it refers to the top-of-the-line luxury car model produced by Mercedes-Benz. The S-Class is known for its exceptional performance, cutting-edge technology, and luxurious features.
Turn more heads than intended? : ALLURE TOO WELL (from “all too well”)
Universal blood type, for short : O-NEG
The answer is "O-NEG" because it refers to the universal blood type, which can be donated to anyone in need. "O" represents the blood type, and "NEG" stands for negative, indicating the absence of certain antigens.
Unloads, in a way : SELLS
The word "unloads" suggests getting rid of something, and one common way to do that is by selling it. Therefore, "SELLS" is the right answer.
Unpleasant surprises when buying concert tickets : FEES
The answer is "FEES" because when buying concert tickets, additional charges are often added, such as service fees or processing fees. These fees can be an unpleasant surprise for buyers.
Unsavory relation? : SORDID TALE
The clue "Unsavory relation?" suggests something unpleasant or morally questionable. The answer "SORDID TALE" fits perfectly as it refers to a story that is scandalous, disgraceful, or morally corrupt.
Up and about : RISEN
The answer "RISEN" is the right solution because it means to be up and about, typically after waking up or getting out of bed.
URL ending : EDU
The answer to "URL ending" is "EDU" because ".edu" is a commonly used domain extension for educational institutions in the United States.
Web portal with a Bing search bar : MSN
The answer to "Web portal with a Bing search bar" is "MSN" because MSN is a popular web portal that includes a Bing search bar as one of its features.
Went for : HAD AT
The phrase "went for" can be understood as meaning "had at" in this context. "Had at" implies pursuing or attempting to acquire something, which aligns with the idea of going for something. Therefore, "HAD AT" is the right solution.
What was once yours? : THINE
The answer "THINE" is the right solution because it is an archaic form of "yours" in the English language. It was commonly used in older texts and poetry to indicate possession or ownership.
Who once quipped “I never forget a face, but in your case I’ll be glad to make an exception” : GROUCHO
The answer is "GROUCHO" because Groucho Marx, a famous comedian, often made witty and sarcastic remarks like this one.
Wired internet letters : DSL
The answer to "Wired internet letters" is "DSL" because DSL stands for Digital Subscriber Line, which is a type of wired internet connection commonly used in households.
Word on an Irish flag carrier : AER
The word "AER" is the right answer because it is a common abbreviation for the word "aeroplane" or "airplane" in Irish. It is often used as a prefix in the names of Irish airlines, making it a suitable word for an Irish flag carrier.
Wrecked : SHOT
The answer to "Wrecked" is "SHOT" because when something is wrecked, it is often damaged or destroyed. "Shot" can be used as a synonym for being damaged or ruined, making it the correct solution.
You can see right through ’em : SPECS
The answer "SPECS" is the right solution because "SPECS" is short for spectacles, which are eyeglasses that you can see through.
[Shrug] : [ DUNNO]
The answer to "[Shrug]" is "IDUNNO" because "IDUNNO" is a shortened version of "I don't know", which is a common response to a question or statement that one is unsure about.
___ Foundation for Justice (international human rights group) : CLOONEY
The answer is "CLOONEY" because George Clooney is a renowned actor and activist who co-founded the "Clooney Foundation for Justice," an international human rights group.
___ guards (soccer gear) : SHIN
The answer is "SHIN" because shin guards are a type of soccer gear that players wear to protect their shins.
___ Lobel, author of the “Frog and Toad” series : ARNOLD
The answer is "ARNOLD" because Arnold Lobel is the author of the "Frog and Toad" series.
“Colorful” exclamation in a hospital drama : CODE BLUE!
The answer "CODE BLUE!" is the right solution because "CODE BLUE" is a commonly used term in hospital dramas to indicate a patient in cardiac arrest or needing immediate medical attention. It is a colorful and urgent exclamation commonly associated with emergency situations in medical settings.
“Good gracious!” : DEAR ME!
The phrase "Good gracious!" is an exclamation used to express surprise or astonishment. "Dear me!" is another common exclamation used in the same context. Therefore, "DEAR ME!" is the right solution because it is a suitable alternative for "Good gracious!"
“S.N.L.” alum Bryant : AIDY
The answer to "S.N.L." alum Bryant" is "AIDY" because Aidy Bryant is a former cast member of the television show "Saturday Night Live" (S.N.L.).
“Stop obsessing over that” : LET IT GO
The phrase "Let it go" is commonly used to tell someone to stop obsessing or worrying about something. It encourages them to move on and not dwell on the issue. Therefore, "Let it go" is the right solution for the clue "Stop obsessing over that."
“___ Flow” (song by Enya) : ORINOCO
The answer to "“___ Flow” (song by Enya)" is "ORINOCO" because the Orinoco is a river in South America, and Enya's song is named after it.