Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 5 November 2023, Sunday (11-05-23). 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.
1040 collector : IRS
The answer "IRS" is the right solution because the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) is the government agency responsible for collecting federal income taxes, including the 1040 tax form.
Actress Rowlands : GENA
Air rights : CORONATIONS (Heir rites)
Air-___ (extra-secure, as a computer) : GAPPED
The answer "GAPPED" is the right solution because when a computer is "air-gapped," it means it is physically isolated from other networks, making it extra-secure. The term "gapped" refers to the gap or lack of connection between the computer and external networks.
Asian honorific : SRI
The answer to "Asian honorific" is "SRI" because "Sri" is a common honorific title used in many Asian countries, such as Sri Lanka and India. It is similar to "Mr." or "Ms." in English.
Bare feet : SUPER BOWL WIN (Bear feat)
Bear whose porridge was too hot : PAPA
The answer to "Bear whose porridge was too hot" is "PAPA" because in the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears, Papa Bear's porridge was indeed too hot.
Beethoven work once called the “Bonaparte” Symphony : EROICA
The answer is "EROICA" because Beethoven originally dedicated his third symphony to Napoleon Bonaparte, but later changed his mind and removed the dedication. "EROICA" is the Italian word for "heroic," which reflects the initial intention behind the symphony.
Beethoven wrote a piece “für” her : ELISE
The answer "ELISE" is the right solution because Beethoven composed a famous piano piece called "Für Elise." The clue hints at the name of the person for whom Beethoven wrote this piece.
Bone insert following an accident : ROD
The answer "ROD" is the right solution because in the context of the clue, an accident can result in a broken bone. To fix a broken bone, a metal rod is often inserted during surgery to provide support and aid in the healing process. Therefore, "ROD" is the appropriate bone insert following an accident.
Book before Obadiah : AMOS
The book before Obadiah in the Bible is "Amos".
Brainstorms : IDEATES
The word "brainstorms" is a synonym for "ideas" or "creative thoughts." Therefore, "ideas" is the correct answer to this crossword clue.
Broad key : ENTER
The answer "ENTER" is the right solution because the word "key" in the clue refers to a keyboard key. The word "broad" suggests that the key being referred to is a larger, more prominent key on the keyboard, and the key that fits this description is the "ENTER" key.
Buffoon : ASS
The answer "ASS" is the right solution for the clue "Buffoon" because an "ass" is a term used to describe a foolish or silly person.
But wait! : JUNK IN THE TRUNK (Butt weight)
Certain web portal : MSN
The answer is "MSN" because it is a well-known web portal that offers a variety of online services such as news, email, and search engine functionalities.
Classic Greek archetype? : FRAT BRO
Column that might lead to a row? : OP-ED
The answer "OP-ED" is the right solution because an "OP-ED" is a type of column found in newspapers that expresses the opinions of the writer. The clue is a play on words, suggesting that this column might lead to a disagreement or argument, which is commonly referred to as a "row."
Coming ’round again : RETRO
The word "retro" means something that is reminiscent of the past or a style that is no longer current. When something is "coming 'round again," it suggests a return to a previous time or trend, which aligns with the meaning of "retro."
Commit a holiday etiquette no-no : REGIFT
The answer "REGIFT" is the right solution because it refers to the act of giving someone a gift that you received from someone else. This is considered a holiday etiquette no-no because it can be seen as thoughtless or insincere.
Complains, complains, complains : WHINES
The word "whines" is the right solution because it means to complain in a high-pitched or irritating manner. It fits perfectly with the clue "complains, complains, complains."
Connective tissues in the legs, informally : IT BANDS
The answer "IT BANDS" is the right solution because connective tissues in the legs are commonly referred to as IT bands.
Crushed (it) : ACED
The word "crushed" is a clue that indicates success or mastery. "ACED" means to excel or succeed, making it the right answer for "Crushed (it)".
Currency unit in Laos : KIP
The currency unit in Laos is called the "KIP".
Deliver (on), as a promise : MAKE GOOD
The phrase "make good" means to fulfill or deliver on a promise. It is a common expression used to indicate that someone is following through on what they said they would do.
Delivery org. : USPS
The answer to "Delivery org." is "USPS" because USPS stands for United States Postal Service, which is a well-known organization responsible for delivering mail and packages in the United States.
Early ISP : AOL
The answer "AOL" is the right solution because it was one of the first widely used internet service providers (ISPs) in the early days of the internet.
Enterprise alternative : ALAMO
The answer "ALAMO" is the right solution because it is an alternative to the company "Enterprise."
Everglades bird : EGRET
The Everglades bird is commonly referred to as an "egret." Egrets are large, long-legged wading birds that are often found in the wetlands of the Everglades. Therefore, "egret" is the correct answer to the crossword clue.
Exhaust … or something found near the exhaust : TIRE
The answer "TIRE" is the right solution because it is something found near the exhaust of a vehicle. The exhaust system is connected to the engine, and the tire is located in close proximity to the exhaust pipe.
First of five at the Globe Theatre : ACT I
The answer is "ACT I" because in a play, the first part is typically divided into acts, and "ACT I" signifies the beginning of the performance.
First state to legalize psychedelic mushrooms : OREGON
The answer is "OREGON" because it was the first state in the United States to legalize the use of psychedelic mushrooms for therapeutic purposes.
Flew by : ROBITUSSIN (Flu buy)
Flight spec : ETA
The answer "ETA" stands for Estimated Time of Arrival, which is a commonly used term in the context of flight schedules. It indicates the expected time when a flight is predicted to land or arrive at its destination.
Focuses of some sonograms : UTERI
The answer "UTERI" is the right solution because the clue "Focuses of some sonograms" refers to the plural form of "uterus" which is "uteri". Sonograms are often used to examine and visualize the uterus, making "UTERI" the correct answer.
French cosmetics chain : SEPHORA
The answer to "French cosmetics chain" is "SEPHORA" because Sephora is a well-known cosmetics retailer that originated in France.
Get ready : TEE UP
The answer "TEE UP" is the right solution because in golf, "teeing up" refers to the act of placing the ball on a tee before hitting it. This action is done to get ready to take a shot.
Goes “bottoms up”? : TWERKS
The phrase "bottoms up" is often used when raising a glass and drinking. In this context, "TWERKS" refers to the dance move that involves shaking one's buttocks. So, "Goes 'bottoms up'?" is a playful clue suggesting that the answer is "TWERKS" because it involves movement associated with the bottom.
Grilled sandwich on Italian bread : PANINI
The term "panini" specifically refers to a grilled sandwich made with Italian bread. It is a popular and widely recognized term in the culinary world.
Group of mimes, maybe : TROUPE
The answer "TROUPE" is the right solution because a "troupe" is a group of performers, often including mimes, who work together to entertain an audience.
Guacamole or tahini : DIP
The answer to "Guacamole or tahini" is "DIP" because guacamole and tahini are both types of dips commonly used for dipping chips or vegetables.
Have ambitions : ASPIRE
The word "ASPIRE" means to have ambitions or to have a strong desire to achieve something. Therefore, it is the right solution for the clue "Have ambitions."
Hershey toffee confection : SKOR BAR
The answer "SKOR BAR" is the right solution because it is a Hershey toffee confection.
Holy Week : TUCKERED OUT (Wholly weak)
Home organizing guru Marie : KONDO
The answer "KONDO" is the right solution because Marie Kondo is a well-known home organizing guru who gained popularity through her best-selling book "The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up" and her Netflix series "Tidying Up with Marie Kondo."
Impatiently agitated : ANTSY
The word "antsy" means feeling restless or impatient. It perfectly matches the clue "impatiently agitated" as it describes someone who is unable to stay still or calm due to impatience. Therefore, "antsy" is the correct answer.
Infuser contents : LOOSE TEA
The answer "LOOSE TEA" is the right solution because an infuser is commonly used to steep loose tea leaves in hot water, extracting their flavors and creating a flavorful beverage.
Ingredient in perfumes : ESTER
The answer to "Ingredient in perfumes" is "ESTER" because esters are commonly used in perfumes to provide fragrance.
Ketchup container, maybe : PACKET
The answer to "Ketchup container, maybe" is "PACKET" because a packet is a small, single-serving container often used for condiments like ketchup.
Lead-in to sphere or system : ECO-
The answer "ECO-" is the right solution because it is a common prefix that is used to indicate something related to the environment or ecology. In this case, it is used as a lead-in to the words "sphere" or "system" to indicate a focus on ecological or environmentally-friendly aspects.
Lhasa ___ : APSO
The answer to "Lhasa ___" is "APSO" because the Lhasa Apso is a breed of dog originating from Tibet, specifically from the city of Lhasa.
Like a leaky pen : INKY
The answer "INKY" is the right solution because a leaky pen often leaves ink stains or smudges, making things appear "inky."
Like those at the top, it’s said : LONELY
The answer "LONELY" fits the clue because when something is "at the top," it means it is alone or isolated, which can be described as being "lonely."
Lipa who sang “Levitating” : DUA
The answer to "Lipa who sang "Levitating"" is "DUA" because Dua Lipa is a popular singer who has a hit song called "Levitating".
Loan shark : USURER
The answer to "Loan shark" is "USURER" because a loan shark is a person who lends money at extremely high interest rates, which is a characteristic of an "USURER".
Lock : TRESS
Manages to acquire, as a table at a popular restaurant : SNAGS
The word "SNAGS" means "manages to acquire" in this context. It implies successfully obtaining a table at a popular restaurant, which can sometimes be challenging.
Memorable part of Rossini’s “William Tell” : OVERTURE
The answer "OVERTURE" is the right solution because it refers to the opening musical composition of Rossini's opera "William Tell." The overture is a well-known and memorable part of the opera.
Midday nap : SIESTA
The answer to "Midday nap" is "SIESTA" because a siesta refers to a short nap or rest taken in the afternoon, typically after lunch.
Mind-numbing detail : MINUTIA
The word "minutia" refers to small or trivial details. When something is described as "mind-numbing detail," it means that it is excessively detailed and overwhelming to the point of causing mental fatigue. Therefore, "minutia" is the right answer as it accurately captures the concept of overwhelming and tedious details.
Muse of love poetry : ERATO
The answer "ERATO" is the right solution because in Greek mythology, Erato is one of the nine Muses, specifically associated with love poetry.
Neither crushed it nor got crushed : DID OK
The phrase "did OK" means to perform adequately or satisfactorily. In the context of the clue, it implies that the person neither excelled nor failed, but rather achieved a moderate level of success.
One doing kickflips and ollies, in slang : SKATE RAT
The term "skate rat" is slang for someone who is skilled and passionate about skateboarding, specifically performing tricks like kickflips and ollies. Therefore, "skate rat" is the right answer to the clue.
One of eight in a V8 : PISTON Down 1 Visit to the Kaaba
The answer to "One of eight in a V8" is "PISTON" because a V8 engine typically has eight cylinders, and each cylinder is equipped with a piston. The piston moves up and down inside the cylinder to help generate power in the engine.
One of its uses is boring : TNT
The answer to "One of its uses is boring" is "TNT" because TNT is commonly used in construction and mining industries to create controlled explosions for drilling and excavation purposes. These explosions can be used to bore holes in the ground or rocks.
One of the Wayans brothers : KEENEN
The answer to "One of the Wayans brothers" is "KEENEN" because Keenen Ivory Wayans is one of the famous Wayans brothers who is known for his work in comedy and as a filmmaker.
One praised at the Kaaba : ALLAH
The answer "ALLAH" is the right solution because it is the name of the Islamic deity, and the Kaaba is a sacred site in Islam where Muslims gather for worship.
One winging it? : PILOT
The answer "PILOT" is the right solution because a pilot is someone who "wings it" by flying an aircraft. They navigate and control the plane without a predetermined path, making decisions on the spot.
Ones who get setters better? : VETS
The answer "VETS" is the right solution because "setters" in this clue refers to dogs that are trained to retrieve game. "Ones who get setters better" refers to veterinarians (VETS) who are skilled at treating and caring for these dogs.
Output of Michel de Montaigne : ESSAYS
The answer "ESSAYS" is the right solution because Michel de Montaigne is famous for his collection of personal essays.
Padre’s hermana : TIA
The answer to "Padre's hermana" is "TIA" because "TIA" is the Spanish word for "aunt," and "hermana" means "sister" in Spanish. Therefore, "Padre's hermana" translates to "Father's sister," which is an aunt.
Part of a Western herd : ELK
The answer "ELK" is the right solution because elk are often found in herds in Western regions.
Peak once known as Mount McKinley : DENALI
The answer is "DENALI" because it is the current and official name of the highest peak in North America, which was previously known as Mount McKinley.
Pig : SLOB
Place to drop off a package : UPS STORE
The answer "UPS STORE" is the right solution because it is a well-known chain of stores where you can drop off packages for delivery through UPS.
Pointer : HINT
The word "pointer" suggests something that directs or guides you in the right direction. Similarly, a "hint" is a subtle clue that helps you find the solution. Therefore, "hint" is the right answer for the crossword clue "Pointer."
Potato, in Indian cooking : ALOO
The word "ALOO" is the right answer because it is the Hindi word for potato, which is commonly used in Indian cooking.
Psychedelic dose : LSD TAB
The answer "LSD TAB" is the right solution because "LSD" is a commonly known psychedelic drug, and "TAB" refers to a tablet or dose form of the drug.
Pulled one’s pants up? : HEMMED
The answer to "Pulled one’s pants up?" is "HEMMED" because hemming refers to folding and sewing the bottom of pants to make them shorter or neater, which can involve pulling them up.
Put on airs : POSTURED
"POSTURED" is the right solution because it means to behave in a way that is intended to impress or deceive others, which aligns with the clue "Put on airs."
Queen’s accessory : TIARA
The answer to "Queen's accessory" is "TIARA" because a tiara is a type of crown or headpiece often worn by queens and other royalty.
Real head-turner : OWL
Really bad : SEVERE
The answer "SEVERE" fits the clue "Really bad" because it means extremely intense or harsh, which can be used to describe something that is truly terrible.
Red-faced : ABLUSH
"Red-faced" is a common idiom used to describe someone who is embarrassed or ashamed. "Shamed" is a synonym for embarrassed or ashamed, making it the correct answer.
Relaxation spots : DENS
The answer "DENS" is the right solution because dens are commonly associated with relaxation and comfort. They are often cozy, private spaces where people can unwind and take a break from the outside world.
Revenue source for a website : AD SALE
The answer "AD SALE" is the right solution because websites often generate revenue by selling advertising space on their platform.
Salon treatment, for short : PEDI
The answer "PEDI" is short for "pedicure," which is a common salon treatment for the feet.
Scottish toppers : TAMS
The word "toppers" in the clue suggests that we are looking for something that goes on top of something else. In this case, "Scottish toppers" refers to headwear that is commonly worn in Scotland. "TAMS" are traditional Scottish caps or hats that fit the description of the clue.
See 61- : … EDU
The answer "… EDU" is the right solution because the clue "See 61-" is indicating that the answer can be found by referring to another clue, specifically clue number 61. The "…" signifies that there is a word or phrase before "EDU" that is related to clue 61, but without further context, it is unknown what that word or phrase is.
See in : BEACH HOTEL (Sea inn)
The answer "BEACH HOTEL (Sea inn)" is the right solution because it cleverly combines the words "sea" and "inn" to create a phrase that accurately describes a place where one can see the sea, which is a beach hotel.
She shares a home with Homer : MARGE
The answer is "MARGE" because Marge is the name of Homer Simpson's wife in the TV show "The Simpsons."
Skip a party, in a way : ELOPE
The answer "ELOPE" is the right solution because when you elope, you choose to skip the traditional wedding party and instead get married privately or secretly.
Small plateau : MESA
The answer to "Small plateau" is "MESA" because a mesa is a small, flat-topped hill or plateau with steep sides.
Small problem : NIT
The answer "NIT" is the right solution for the clue "Small problem" because a nit is a small insect or egg, typically referring to the eggs of lice. In a figurative sense, a "nit" can also refer to a minor or trivial problem.
Smartphone predecessors, for short : PDAS
The answer "PDAs" is the right solution because PDAs, or Personal Digital Assistants, were devices that were commonly used before smartphones became popular. They served similar functions such as organizing schedules, managing contacts, and providing basic internet access. Therefore, PDAs can be considered the predecessors to smartphones.
Snoop : SPY
The answer to "Snoop" is "SPY" because a spy is someone who secretly observes or gathers information, similar to how a snoop does.
Some YouTube content, in short : HD VIDEOS
The answer to "Some YouTube content, in short" is "HD VIDEOS" because HD stands for high definition, which is a common format for videos on YouTube.
Sources of winter strains : CAROLS
The answer "CAROLS" is the right solution because carols are traditional songs that are often sung during the winter season, particularly around Christmas time. They are a source of joy and can help to create a festive atmosphere during the winter months.
Term of address that becomes less formal when its middle letter is removed : MADAM
The term of address "MADAM" becomes less formal when its middle letter "D" is removed, resulting in "MAM."
Text tweaks : EDITS
The word "tweaks" suggests making small changes or adjustments. "EDITS" is a common term used to describe the act of making changes to a text, making it the appropriate answer to the clue.
To peace! : STRING BIKINI (Two-piece)
Toss in : ADD
The word "toss" suggests the action of adding something into a mixture or a container. Therefore, "ADD" is the right solution for the clue "Toss in."
Totally phat : DA BOMB
The answer "DA BOMB" is the right solution because it is a slang phrase that means something is excellent or amazing. It fits the clue "Totally phat" as "phat" is also slang for something that is cool or impressive. Therefore, "DA BOMB" is a fitting answer.
Trick : RUSE
The answer "RUSE" fits the clue "Trick" because a ruse is a deceptive or cunning action meant to deceive or trick someone.
Using an e-cigarette : VAPING
The answer "VAPING" is the right solution because it refers to the act of using an e-cigarette, which involves inhaling and exhaling vapor produced by an electronic device.
Volkswagen model : PASSAT
The answer "PASSAT" is the right solution because it is a well-known Volkswagen model.
We won! : KINDERGARTENER (Wee one)
With 2-Down, end of the Gettysburg address? : DOT …
The answer "DOT" is the right solution because when combined with the clue "With 2-Down, end of the Gettysburg address?", it forms the phrase "Four score and seven years ago our fathers brought forth on this continent a new nation, conceived in Liberty, and dedicated to the proposition that all men are created equal. Now we are engaged in a great civil war, testing whether that nation, or any nation so conceived and so dedicated, can long endure. We are met on a great battle-field of that war. We have come to dedicate a portion of that field, as a final resting place for those who here gave their lives that that nation might live. It is altogether fitting and proper that we should do this. But, in a larger sense, we can not dedicate—we can not consecrate—we can not hallow—this ground. The brave men, living and dead, who struggled here, have consecrated it, far above our poor power to add or detract. The world will little note, nor long remember what we say here, but it can never forget what they did here. It is for us the living, rather, to be dedicated here to the unfinished work which they who fought here have thus far so nobly advanced. It is rather for us to be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us—that from these honored dead we take increased devotion to that cause for which they gave the last full measure of devotion—that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain—that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth." The phrase "DOT …" represents the ellipsis, indicating that the Gettysburg address continues beyond what is quoted.
Word for word, in Paris? : MOT
The answer "MOT" is the right solution because "mot" is the French word for "word" and the clue is hinting at the phrase "word for word" in Paris.
Word with school or cook : PREP …
The word "PREP" is the right solution because it can be combined with "school" to form "prep school" and with "cook" to form "prep cook."
Wrathful : IRATE
The word "irate" means extremely angry or wrathful, which matches the clue "wrathful." Therefore, "irate" is the right answer.
Yoga equipment : MATS
The answer to "Yoga equipment" is "MATS" because mats are commonly used in yoga to provide a cushioned and non-slip surface for practitioners to perform their exercises on.
You might get it for a lot : DEED
The answer "DEED" fits the clue "You might get it for a lot" because a deed is a legal document that transfers ownership of a property or land. When you purchase a lot, you receive a deed as proof of ownership.
Yours and mine : OURS
The answer "OURS" is the right solution because it refers to something that belongs to both "you" and "me". It indicates possession shared between two or more people.
[purposeful cough] : [AHEM]
The answer to "[purposeful cough]" is "[AHEM]" because "ahem" is a commonly used word to represent a purposeful cough.
___ dish : PETRI
The answer to "___ dish" is "PETRI" because a Petri dish is a shallow, cylindrical glass or plastic dish used in laboratories for culturing microorganisms.
“Cool” that’s no longer cool : HEP
The answer "HEP" is the right solution because it is a slang term that was popular in the 1940s and 1950s to mean "cool" or "hip." However, it is no longer commonly used, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
“E pluribus unum” appears on one : SEAL
The answer "SEAL" is the right solution because "E pluribus unum" is a Latin phrase that translates to "Out of many, one," which is the official motto of the United States. The phrase is often found on the Great Seal of the United States, making "SEAL" the correct answer.
“How considerate!” : SO KIND!
The phrase "So kind!" is often used to express appreciation for someone's considerate behavior. Therefore, it is a fitting answer to the clue "How considerate!"
“Mmm, I see what you’re saying” : AH, YES
The phrase "Ah, yes" is commonly used to express understanding or agreement with what someone is saying. It conveys the sentiment of "I see what you're saying" in a concise and casual manner.
“Star Wars” Jedi : KENOBI
The answer is "KENOBI" because Obi-Wan Kenobi is a well-known Jedi character from the "Star Wars" franchise.
“Star Wars” queen : AMIDALA
The answer is "AMIDALA" because Queen Amidala is a prominent character in the "Star Wars" franchise, specifically in the prequel trilogy.
“The Glass Bead Game” author : HESSE
The answer "HESSE" is the right solution because Hermann Hesse is the author of the novel "The Glass Bead Game."
“Well, aren’t you the cat’s meow!” : LA-DI-DA!
The phrase "Well, aren't you the cat's meow!" is an expression used to compliment someone for being impressive or stylish. The answer "LA-DI-DA!" is a playful and sarcastic response that suggests someone is being overly fancy or pretentious. Therefore, "LA-DI-DA!" is the right solution as it captures the tone and meaning of the clue.
“You’ve got the wrong guy” : NOT I
The phrase "You've got the wrong guy" is a way of denying responsibility or involvement. The answer "NOT I" is a short and simple way to express this denial.
“___ been thinking …” : I’VE
The answer to "“___ been thinking …”" is "I’VE" because the clue is indicating that someone has been thinking about something. "I’VE" is the contraction of "I have," which fits perfectly in the given phrase.
“___ Girl” (Billy Joel hit) : UPTOWN
The answer to "“___ Girl” (Billy Joel hit)" is "UPTOWN" because "Uptown Girl" is the title of a popular hit song by Billy Joel.