Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 12 November 2023, Sunday (11-12-23). 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.
#34 : IKE
The answer "IKE" is the right solution for clue "#34" because it is a common nickname for the former U.S. President Dwight D. Eisenhower.
2022 culinary black comedy, with “The” : … MENU
50-50, e.g. : TIE
The answer to "50-50, e.g." is "TIE" because a tie is a result in which two opposing sides have an equal score or are equally likely to win.
Actress Close : GLENN
The answer to "Actress Close" is "GLENN" because Glenn Close is a well-known actress in the entertainment industry.
Actress Jennifer : ANISTON
The answer is "ANISTON" because Jennifer Aniston is a well-known actress in the entertainment industry.
Anton ___, food critic in “Ratatouille” : EGO
The answer is "EGO" because Anton Ego is the name of the food critic in the movie "Ratatouille."
Application of polish, e.g. : COAT
The answer "COAT" is the right solution because it fits the clue "Application of polish, e.g." A coat can refer to the act of applying polish to a surface, such as a coat of paint or a coat of varnish.
Arthur of “The Golden Girls” : BEA
The answer is "BEA" because Bea Arthur is the actress who played the character Dorothy Zbornak on the TV show "The Golden Girls."
Big, big, big : EPIC
The word "epic" is often used to describe something that is grand, monumental, or of immense scale. In this context, "big, big, big" is emphasizing the magnitude of the subject, making "epic" a fitting answer.
Blindly punch : HIT AT
The answer "HIT AT" fits the clue "Blindly punch" because it suggests the action of striking without aiming or targeting a specific object or person.
Blobby parts of blobfish : NOSES
The answer "NOSES" is the right solution because blobfish have prominent, fleshy protuberances on their face that resemble noses. Therefore, "Blobby parts of blobfish" refers to these distinctive nasal features.
Bracelet bit : BEAD
The answer to "Bracelet bit" is "BEAD" because beads are small decorative objects that are commonly used in making bracelets.
Captain of M.L.B.’s Swingin’ A’s of the 1970s : SALBANDO
Caught : SEEN
The answer "SEEN" fits the clue "Caught" because when you see something, you have caught sight of it visually.
Chichén ___ (ancient Mayan city) : ITZA
Christopher Columbus, e.g. : GENOAN
The answer "GENOAN" is the right solution because Christopher Columbus was born in Genoa, Italy.
Claim : ALLEGE
The word "claim" is a verb that means to assert or state something as true. "Allege" is a synonym of claim, as it also means to assert or declare something without providing concrete proof. Therefore, "allege" is the right answer for the clue "claim."
Classifies : ASSORTS
The word "classifies" is a verb that means to arrange or categorize things into groups. The word "assorts" is a verb that also means to arrange or categorize things into groups. Therefore, "assorts" is the right solution because it directly matches the meaning of the clue.
Come-on : TEASER
The answer "TEASER" is the right solution for the clue "Come-on" because a teaser is something that is designed to arouse interest or curiosity, often used as a promotional tactic. In the context of the clue, a "Come-on" can be seen as a form of teasing or enticing someone.
Dark green Indian dish : SAAG
The answer to "Dark green Indian dish" is "SAAG" because saag is a popular Indian dish made with dark green leafy vegetables, such as spinach or mustard greens.
Degrees for most profs : PHDS
The answer "PHDS" is the right solution because most professors hold a Doctor of Philosophy degree (PhD), which is commonly referred to as a "PhD" or "PHD" for short.
Displayed : ON VIEW
The answer "ON VIEW" fits the clue "Displayed" because it means something is being shown or exhibited for others to see.
Downright : PLUMB
The word "PLUMB" can mean "downright" in the sense of being completely or absolutely. It is a concise and suitable answer for the given clue.
Drench : DOUSE
The answer "SOP" is the right solution because it means to soak or drench something, usually a piece of bread or cake, in a liquid.
Early evening hour : SEVEN
Emerged as a victor : WON
The word "WON" fits the clue "Emerged as a victor" because it is a past tense form of the verb "win," which means to be victorious in a competition or contest.
Enjoyed oneself : HAD A GOOD TIME
The phrase "HAD A GOOD TIME" is the right solution because it directly corresponds to the clue "Enjoyed oneself." It implies that the person had a pleasurable experience or enjoyed their time in a positive way.
Enjoys doing nothing : LOAFS
The answer "LOAFS" fits the clue "Enjoys doing nothing" because "loafing" refers to the act of being idle or lazing around without doing any work or activity.
Enter : INPUT
The answer to "Enter" is "INPUT" because "input" is a commonly used term in computer technology to describe the act of providing data or information to a computer system. It fits the clue as it means to enter or provide information.
Euphemistic cry of frustration : DADGUMIT
The answer "DADGUMIT" is a euphemistic expression used to express frustration or annoyance. It is a playful substitute for a stronger, more explicit expletive. In crossword puzzles, it is common to use euphemisms to maintain a family-friendly tone. Therefore, "DADGUMIT" fits perfectly as the answer to the clue "Euphemistic cry of frustration."
Fall fruit : PEAR
The answer to "Fall fruit" is "PEAR" because pears are commonly harvested and consumed during the fall season.
Features of telephone directories : AREA CODE MAPS
The answer "AREA CODE MAPS" is the right solution for the clue "Features of telephone directories" because telephone directories often include maps that show the different area codes for different regions. These maps help users locate and identify the area codes associated with specific locations.
Fight (for) : FEND
The answer "FEND" is the right solution because it means to defend or protect oneself in a fight or conflict.
Figure of speech in which words are reversed for effect, like “Never let a fool kiss you or a kiss fool you” : CHIASMUS
The figure of speech described in the clue, where words are reversed for effect, is called a chiasmus. Therefore, "CHIASMUS" is the correct answer.
Figures in Islamic mythology : GENII
The answer "GENII" is the right solution because in Islamic mythology, genii are supernatural beings or spirits that are believed to possess magical powers. They play an important role in Islamic folklore and are often depicted as guardians or helpers.
Film company behind “Amadeus” and “Platoon” : ORION
The film company behind "Amadeus" and "Platoon" is "ORION" because it was the production company responsible for producing these movies.
Firefighter famous for extinguishing burning wells : RED ADAIR
The answer is "RED ADAIR" because Red Adair was a well-known firefighter who specialized in extinguishing burning oil wells.
First ___ (Shakespeare collection) : FOLIO
The term "First Folio" refers to the first published collection of William Shakespeare's plays. It is called a "folio" because it was printed in a large book format. Therefore, "FOLIO" is the right answer to the clue.
Flying fish-eaters : ERNS
The answer to "Flying fish-eaters" is "ERNS" because ERNS are seabirds known for their ability to catch and eat flying fish.
Formulates, as a plan : DEVISES
The word "devises" means to create or come up with a plan. It fits the clue "formulates, as a plan" perfectly, making it the correct answer.
Get bigger : BROADEN
The word "broaden" means to become larger or wider in scope or extent. In the context of the clue "Get bigger," "broaden" perfectly fits as it conveys the idea of something expanding or increasing in size.
Gig part : MEG
The answer "MEG" is the right solution to the clue "Gig part" because "MEG" is short for "megabyte," which is a unit of digital information storage commonly used in the context of technology and computing.
Give lip service? : SASS
The answer "SASS" fits the clue because "giving lip service" means to talk back or be disrespectful, which is exactly what "SASS" means.
Gives kudos : LAUDS
The word "LAUDS" means to give praise or kudos to someone or something. It fits perfectly with the clue "Gives kudos" as it directly relates to praising someone.
Go down slightly : DIP
The answer "DIP" is the right solution because it means to go down slightly, like dipping a spoon into a bowl.
Goldman ___ : SACHS
The answer to "Goldman ___" is "SACHS" because Goldman Sachs is a well-known investment banking company.
Got less hairy : SHEDDED
The answer "SHEDDED" is the right solution because it means to "get less hairy" by shedding or losing hair, like a dog shedding its fur.
Grovel : EAT DIRT
The answer "EAT DIRT" is the right solution because "grovel" means to behave in a submissive or humiliated manner, and "eating dirt" is often used as a metaphor for showing extreme subservience or humiliation.
Grp. that goes on tour : PGA
The answer to "Grp. that goes on tour" is "PGA" because PGA stands for Professional Golfers' Association, and professional golfers often go on tour to play in different tournaments.
Hamburg refusal : NEIN
The answer "NEIN" is the right solution because it is the German word for "no," and Hamburg is a city in Germany.
Hasty signature, often : SCRIBBLE
The answer "SCRIBBLE" is the right solution because a hasty signature is often done quickly and with little care, resulting in a messy or illegible handwriting. "SCRIBBLE" perfectly captures the idea of hurriedly writing one's signature without much attention to detail.
It can be a lifesaver, in brief : CPR
The answer "CPR" stands for Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation, which is a technique used to revive a person whose heart has stopped beating. It is considered a lifesaver because it can restore blood circulation and breathing in emergency situations.
It may deliver a punch : LADLE
The answer "LADLE" is the right solution because a ladle is a kitchen utensil that is commonly used to deliver soup or punch from a bowl to a cup or glass.
Jacinda ___, New Zealand prime minister who, at 37, was the world’s youngest female head of government : ARDERN
Japanese buckwheat noodle : SOBA
The answer to "Japanese buckwheat noodle" is "SOBA" because SOBA is a type of noodle commonly used in Japanese cuisine that is made from buckwheat flour.
King Tut, during most of his reign : TEEN
The word "TEEN" is the right solution because King Tutankhamun, commonly known as King Tut, ascended to the throne of Egypt at a very young age. "TEEN" is a short form of "teenager," which is commonly associated with individuals in their teenage years.
Landscaper’s purchase : SOD
The answer "SOD" is the right solution because landscapers often purchase rolls of grass or "sod" to lay down and create a new lawn or improve an existing one.
Large, as a lead : COMMANDING
The word "commanding" means having a powerful presence or being in control. In the context of the clue "Large, as a lead," "commanding" fits because it suggests a lead that is significant or dominant in size.
Lead-in to gender : CIS-
The answer "CIS-" is the right solution because it is a commonly used prefix that means "on the same side" or "not across." In the context of the clue "Lead-in to gender," "CIS-" is used to refer to individuals whose gender identity aligns with the sex they were assigned at birth.
Like a momentous occasion / Office communiqué : MEMORABLE / MEMORANDUM (right on the RAND)
The answer to "Like a momentous occasion / Office communiqué" is "MEMORABLE / MEMORANDUM (right on the RAND)" because both "memorable" and "memorandum" fit the clue and are related to the theme of memory. Additionally, the word "RAND" is a play on words, suggesting that the answer should be found on the right side of the word "memorandum."
Little fights : SPATS
The answer "SPATS" is the right solution because it is a word that means small or minor arguments or disagreements.
Lollipop with a “mystery flavor” : DUM DUM
The answer is "DUM DUM" because DUM DUM is a well-known brand of lollipops that often includes a "mystery flavor" in their assortment.
Major part of astronomy? : URSA
The major part of astronomy referred to in the clue is the constellation Ursa Major, also known as the Big Dipper. Therefore, the answer "URSA" is the correct solution.
Masters / Elaborated : EXPERTS / EXPOUNDED (right on the POUND)
The answer "EXPERTS / EXPOUNDED" fits the clue "Masters / Elaborated" because "EXPERTS" means masters or highly skilled individuals, and "EXPOUNDED" means elaborated or explained in detail. The wordplay in the clue, "right on the POUND," suggests that the answer should be split into two words, and "POUND" refers to the abbreviation for the British currency, which is "£."
Motherless calf : DOGIE
The term "dogie" is commonly used to refer to a motherless or orphaned calf in the western United States. It is a colloquial term that has been used for many years in ranching communities.
Movers and shakers : DOERS
The answer "DOERS" fits the clue "Movers and shakers" because it refers to people who take action and get things done. They are the ones who are actively involved and make things happen.
Movie hero introduced in 1981 : INDIANA JONES
The answer "INDIANA JONES" is the right solution because the character Indiana Jones was first introduced in a movie in 1981.
Much of the planet Saturn : GAS Down 1 Product safety indicator
The answer to "Much of the planet Saturn" is "GAS" because Saturn is primarily composed of gases, such as hydrogen and helium.
Not fake : REAL
The word "REAL" means genuine or not fake. It is the right solution because it directly matches the clue "Not fake."
Novelist Tami : HOAG
The answer "HOAG" is the right solution because Tami Hoag is a well-known novelist.
Old nomad of central Asia : HUN
The answer "HUN" is the right solution because the Huns were a group of ancient nomads from central Asia.
One might read “Caution : Messy eater!”
Oomph : ZING
The answer "ZING" is the right solution because it is a word that represents energy, enthusiasm, or liveliness, which is synonymous with "oomph."
Padlock holder : HASP
The word "HASP" is the right solution because a hasp is a metal fastening device that is commonly used to hold a padlock in place.
Part of a furniture measurement : DEPTH
The answer "DEPTH" is the right solution because when measuring furniture, the depth refers to the distance from the front to the back of an object.
Part of a potter’s process / Parts of a building’s safety system : FIRING / FIRE ALARMS (right on the REAL)
The answer "FIRING / FIRE ALARMS" is the right solution because "FIRING" is a part of a potter's process, referring to the process of heating clay in a kiln to harden it. "FIRE ALARMS" are parts of a building's safety system, used to alert occupants in case of a fire. Both answers are directly related to their respective clues.
Peabody-winning journalist Linda : ELLERBEE
The answer to "Peabody-winning journalist Linda" is "ELLERBEE" because Linda Ellerbee is a well-known journalist who has won the prestigious Peabody Award.
Peak in the “Odyssey” : OSSA
The answer "OSSA" is the right solution because it is a peak mentioned in the epic poem "Odyssey" by Homer.
Philadelphia athlete : FLYER
The answer "FLYER" is the right solution because the Philadelphia Flyers is a professional ice hockey team based in Philadelphia. They are known as Philadelphia athletes, making "FLYER" the correct answer.
Playroom collection : TOYS
The answer to "Playroom collection" is "TOYS" because toys are commonly found in playrooms.
Poet Ezra : POUND
The answer to "Poet Ezra" is "POUND" because Ezra Pound was a famous American poet and critic.
Pool locale : SPA
The answer to "Pool locale" is "SPA" because a spa is a common place where pools are often found.
Prefix with sphere : HELIO-
The prefix "HELIO-" is the right solution because it means "related to the sun" in Greek. Since a sphere can refer to a celestial body like the sun, "HELIO-" is the appropriate prefix to use.
Prefix with thesis : ANTI-
The answer to "Prefix with thesis" is "ANTI-" because the prefix "anti-" means against or opposing. In this context, it suggests something that is against or opposing a thesis.
Primatologist Goodall : JANE
The answer to "Primatologist Goodall" is "JANE" because Jane Goodall is a well-known primatologist.
Princess Fiona, e.g. : OGRE
The answer to "Princess Fiona, e.g." is "OGRE" because in the movie Shrek, Princess Fiona is revealed to be an ogre.
Red army member? : ANT
The answer "ANT" is the right solution because ants are commonly associated with being part of a red army.
Refusals : NOES
The answer "NOES" is the right solution for the clue "Refusals" because "NOES" is the plural form of the word "NO", which is commonly used to indicate a refusal or denial.
Rest atop : LIE ON
The answer "LIE ON" is the right solution because it accurately describes the action of resting atop something. When we say we "lie on" a surface, it means we are reclining or resting in a horizontal position on top of that surface.
Robotic anime genre : MECHA
The answer "MECHA" is the right solution because it refers to a genre of anime that involves robots or machines as central characters or themes.
Satyrs, say : LEERERS
The answer "LEERERS" is the right solution because satyrs are mythological creatures known for their lustful and lascivious behavior. "LEERERS" accurately describes individuals who stare or look at others in a suggestive or inappropriate way, which aligns with the behavior associated with satyrs.
Senator Klobuchar : AMY
The answer to "Senator Klobuchar" is "AMY" because Amy Klobuchar is a well-known U.S. Senator.
Serves right? : ACES
The phrase "serves right" can be interpreted as someone receiving their just desserts or getting what they deserve. In card games, "aces" are the highest-ranking cards, symbolizing excellence or superiority. Therefore, the answer "ACES" fits the clue as it suggests that someone is getting what they deserve, making it the right solution.
Some motel prohibitions : PETS
The answer "PETS" fits the clue "Some motel prohibitions" because many motels have rules that prohibit guests from bringing their pets along.
Someone’s je ne sais quoi : AURA
The answer "AURA" fits the clue "Someone's je ne sais quoi" because an aura is an intangible quality or atmosphere that a person exudes, often giving them a certain charm or appeal.
Something dot something, say : URL
The answer is "URL" because a URL is something that consists of dots (periods) and is used to identify a specific webpage or resource on the internet.
Speaks loudly : THUNDERS
The answer "THUNDERS" fits the clue "Speaks loudly" because thunder is a loud sound produced during a storm.
Store whose name is an acronym : IKEA
The answer to the clue "Store whose name is an acronym" is "IKEA" because IKEA stands for Ingvar Kamprad Elmtaryd Agunnaryd, which are the initials of the founder's name and the farm where he grew up.
Stuff refineries refine : OIL
The answer to "Stuff refineries refine" is "OIL" because refineries are facilities that process crude oil to produce various petroleum products like gasoline, diesel, and kerosene.
Stylish women’s shoes : PUMPS
The answer to "Stylish women’s shoes" is "PUMPS" because pumps are a type of women's shoe that are known for their stylish and elegant design.
Sweetly, in scores : DOLCE
The word "DOLCE" is the Italian word for "sweetly." In musical notation, "scores" refers to written music. Therefore, "Sweetly, in scores" is a clue indicating that the answer is the Italian word for sweetly, which is "DOLCE."
Switches allegiances, as a spy : TURNS
The word "TURNS" fits the clue because it means to change sides or loyalties, which is what a spy might do when switching allegiances.
Targets of some wipes : GERMS
The answer "GERMS" is the right solution because wipes are often used to clean and remove germs from surfaces.
Taunt, in a way : MIMIC
The word "mimic" is the right solution because when someone taunts another person, they often imitate or mimic their actions or words in a mocking or derisive manner.
The “E” of E.S.L., for short : ENG
The answer to "The 'E' of E.S.L., for short" is "ENG" because "ENG" is a commonly used abbreviation for English. In the context of E.S.L. (English as a Second Language), the "E" stands for English, making "ENG" the correct answer.
They might be wall-mounted : TVS
The answer "TVS" is the right solution because televisions (TVs) are commonly wall-mounted in many households.
They’re no longer “fresh” : SOPHS
The answer "SOPHS" is the right solution because "SOPHS" is short for sophomores, who are no longer considered "fresh" in terms of their academic standing.
Titular feature of fiction’s Lisbeth Salander : DRAGON TATTOO
The answer is "DRAGON TATTOO" because Lisbeth Salander, the main character in the book series "Millennium" by Stieg Larsson, is known for having a distinctive dragon tattoo on her back.
Totally committed to : DEAD SET ON
"Dead set on" is the right solution because it means being completely and unwaveringly committed to something. It implies a strong determination and focus, making it a fitting answer to the clue "Totally committed to."
Tous ___ jours (French for “every day”) : LES
The answer to "Tous ___ jours (French for “every day”)" is "LES" because "les" is the French word for "the" and it fits the given clue, indicating "every day" in French.
Trawler’s need : NET
The answer "NET" is the right solution because trawlers use nets to catch fish.
Treats favorably / Has a very good effect : DOES WELL BY / DOES WONDERS (right on the WON)
The answer "DOES WELL BY" fits the clue "Treats favorably" because it means to treat someone or something in a positive or beneficial way. The answer "DOES WONDERS" fits the clue "Has a very good effect" because it means to have a great or remarkable positive impact.
Twilled fabric : SERGE
The answer "SERGE" is the right solution because it is a type of twilled fabric commonly used for making suits and uniforms.
Twit, to a Brit : PRAT
Vassal’s plot : FIEF
The answer "FIEF" is the right solution because a vassal is a person who holds land from a lord in exchange for loyalty and service. This land is known as a fief, hence the connection between the clue and the answer.
What a Tyrannosaurus rex grapples with? : SMALL ARMS
The answer "SMALL ARMS" is a play on words. While Tyrannosaurus rex is known for its large, powerful arms, the clue is using the term "arms" in a different context, referring to weapons or firearms. Therefore, the answer "SMALL ARMS" is a clever and humorous way to describe what a Tyrannosaurus rex grapples with.
What may come before Today : USA …
The answer to "What may come before Today" is "USA …" because in crossword puzzles, the abbreviation "USA" is often used to represent "United States of America." Therefore, it fits the clue as it means "United States of America Today."
Where to see heads of gladiators, informally : AMEX CARDS
The answer "AMEX CARDS" is the right solution because "heads of gladiators" is a clue indicating the first letters of the words "American Express." Informally, American Express cards are often referred to as "AMEX CARDS."
Whole shebang : GAMUT
The answer "GAMUT" is the right solution because it means the entire range or scope of something. In this context, "whole shebang" refers to the complete or full extent of something, which aligns with the meaning of "GAMUT."
Word with purpose or personality : DUAL …
The answer to "Word with purpose or personality" is "DUAL" because it can be combined with both "purpose" and "personality" to form common phrases such as "dual purpose" and "dual personality."
Worker at the Genius Bar : TECHIE
The answer "TECHIE" is the right solution because it is a commonly used term to refer to a worker at the Genius Bar, which is the tech support service provided by Apple.
Writer Ayn : RAND
The answer to "Writer Ayn" is "RAND" because Ayn Rand was a famous writer known for her novels such as "Atlas Shrugged" and "The Fountainhead".
Year abroad? : ANO
The answer "ANO" is the right solution for the clue "Year abroad?" because "ano" is the Spanish word for "year." In this clue, "abroad" is indicating that we should look for a foreign word for "year," and "ano" fits that description.
You’re gonna pay for this! : DEBT
The answer to "You're gonna pay for this!" is "DEBT" because when someone says this phrase, it implies that there will be consequences or a price to be paid for someone's actions, which is often associated with owing money or being in debt.
[If you’ll allow me to butt in …] : [AHEM …]
The answer to "[If you’ll allow me to butt in …]" is "[AHEM …]" because "ahem" is a common interjection used to politely interrupt or get someone's attention. It fits the clue as it suggests a respectful way to interject into a conversation.
___ vincit amor : OMNIA
The phrase "___ vincit amor" is a Latin quote meaning "love conquers all." The answer "OMNIA" fits perfectly as it means "all" in Latin, completing the phrase.
___ years (old age) : RIPER
The answer "RIPER" fits the clue "___ years (old age)" because it means more advanced in age or closer to the end of life.
“Are you satisfied?” / Common fairy tale conclusion : HAPPY NOW? / HAPPY ENDING (right on the YEN)
The answer "HAPPY NOW? / HAPPY ENDING (right on the YEN)" is the right solution because "Are you satisfied?" can be rephrased as "Are you HAPPY NOW?" and "Common fairy tale conclusion" refers to a HAPPY ENDING. The phrase "right on the YEN" is a wordplay hint indicating that the word "HAPPY" is split between the two answers, with the letter "Y" being the common letter.
“Back in the good old days …” : ONCE …
The phrase "Back in the good old days" often refers to a specific time in the past. The word "once" can be used to indicate a specific point in time, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
“Gotcha!” : AHA!
"ISEE" can be interpreted as a colloquialism for "I see," which is often used to indicate understanding or acknowledgement of a statement. "Gotcha" is also a colloquialism used to indicate understanding or acknowledgement of a situation or statement. Therefore, "ISEE" is an appropriate answer to the clue ""Gotcha"."
“Not a problem” : SURE
The answer "SURE" fits the clue "Not a problem" because it is a casual way of expressing agreement or assurance, indicating that something is not an issue.
“Sorry to say …” : ALAS …
The phrase "Sorry to say ..." is often used to introduce bad news or unfortunate information. The word "ALAS" is an interjection that expresses sorrow, regret, or disappointment, making it a fitting answer for the clue.
“That was hilarious!,” in textspeak : LMFAO!
The answer "LMFAO!" is the right solution because it is a commonly used acronym in textspeak that stands for "laughing my [expletive] off," indicating that something was hilarious.
“___ you ready?” : ARE
The answer to "___ you ready?" is "ARE" because it is a question asking if someone is prepared. The word "are" is a form of the verb "to be" which is used for plural subjects like "you".