Here's all New York Times Crossword answers for 18 November 2023, Saturday (11-18-23). 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.
2014 Winter Olympics locale : SOCHI
The answer to "2014 Winter Olympics locale" is "SOCHI" because Sochi was the city in Russia where the Winter Olympics were held in 2014.
Apple core, for short : CPU
The answer "CPU" stands for Central Processing Unit, which is commonly referred to as the "brain" or "core" of a computer. In this context, "Apple core" is a playful clue that hints at the core component of an Apple computer, which is the CPU.
Apt rhyme for “fit” : SNIT
The word "SNIT" is an apt rhyme for "fit" because both words end with the same sound, "it".
Arcade fixture with miniature toys and candy as prizes : CLAW GAME
The answer "CLAW GAME" fits the clue because it accurately describes an arcade fixture that typically has miniature toys and candy as prizes.
Athlete’s affliction also called “twisties” in gymnastics, with “the” : … YIPS
The answer is "YIPS" because "YIPS" is a term used to describe a sudden loss of fine motor skills or coordination in athletes, which can affect their performance. This condition is sometimes referred to as "twisties" in gymnastics.
Bangs, e.g. : NOISES
The answer "NOISES" is the right solution because "bangs" is a synonym for loud, sudden sounds, and "NOISES" fits that description.
Brand with three stripes : ADIDAS
The answer to "Brand with three stripes" is "ADIDAS" because ADIDAS is a well-known sportswear brand that is easily recognized by its logo consisting of three parallel stripes.
Brown-y points, for short? : TDS
The answer to "Brown-y points, for short?" is "TDS" because "TDS" stands for "touchdowns" in American football, and "Brown-y" refers to the Cleveland Browns football team. Therefore, "Brown-y points" is a playful way of referring to the touchdowns scored by the Cleveland Browns, making "TDS" the correct answer.
Burger burgled by the Hamburglar : BIG MAC
The answer to "Burger burgled by the Hamburglar" is "BIG MAC" because the Hamburglar is a character associated with McDonald's, and the Big Mac is a popular burger from McDonald's.
Caribbean spirit : RUM
The answer "RUM" is the right solution for the clue "Caribbean spirit" because rum is a type of alcoholic beverage that is strongly associated with the Caribbean region.
Certain descriptor after a signature nowadays : HE/HIM
The answer "HE/HIM" is the right solution because it refers to the use of pronouns after a signature to indicate the gender identity of the person signing. In this case, "HE/HIM" indicates that the person identifies as male.
Channel established under a royal charter : BBC
The answer to "Channel established under a royal charter" is "BBC" because the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) is a public service broadcaster in the United Kingdom that was founded by a royal charter.
Charybdis, for one : MAELSTROM
The answer "MAELSTROM" is the right solution because Charybdis is a whirlpool in Greek mythology, and a maelstrom is a powerful whirlpool. They both refer to a violent and turbulent swirling current of water.
Charybdis’ milieu : OCEAN
The answer to "Charybdis' milieu" is "OCEAN" because Charybdis is a mythical sea monster who was believed to create a whirlpool in the ocean. Therefore, the ocean is the right solution as it is the environment where Charybdis was known to exist.
Common bit of knitwear : BEANIE
The answer "BEANIE" is the right solution because it is a common type of knitwear that is typically worn on the head.
Contents of some old calendars : PINUPS
The answer "PINUPS" is the right solution because old calendars often featured pictures of attractive people, typically models or celebrities, which were referred to as pinups.
Curing technique : DRY-SALT
The answer "DRY-SALT" is the right solution because it refers to a curing technique where salt is used to preserve food by drawing out moisture. The term "DRY-SALT" accurately describes this process, making it the correct answer for the clue.
Drove : RAN
The answer "RAN" is the right solution because it is a past tense form of the verb "run," which can mean to operate a vehicle or to drive.
E.T.A. provider : GPS
The answer "GPS" is the right solution because GPS stands for Global Positioning System, which provides estimated time of arrival (E.T.A.) information based on satellite navigation.
Elder Stark daughter on “Game of Thrones” : SANSA
The answer is "SANSA" because she is the eldest daughter of the Stark family in the TV show "Game of Thrones."
Feast for “holiday orphans” : FRIENDSGIVING
The term "Friendsgiving" is commonly used to describe a gathering or feast held by friends on or around Thanksgiving, especially for those who may not have family nearby. Therefore, "FRIENDSGIVING" is the right answer for a feast for "holiday orphans."
Festivity with mountains of bubbles : FOAM PARTY
The answer "FOAM PARTY" is the right solution because it perfectly fits the clue "festivity with mountains of bubbles." A foam party is an event where foam or bubbles are generated in large quantities, creating a fun and festive atmosphere.
Flashes of understanding : INSIGHTS Down 1 Kitchen shavings
The answer to "Flashes of understanding" is "INSIGHTS" because "insights" refers to sudden moments of clarity or understanding. It fits the clue perfectly.
Gamer’s post-purchase add-ons, for short : DLC
The answer "DLC" stands for "Downloadable Content," which refers to additional content that can be downloaded and added to a video game after its initial release. These post-purchase add-ons enhance the gaming experience and provide additional levels, characters, or features. Therefore, "DLC" is the correct solution for the clue.
Genesis woman : LEAH
The answer to "Genesis woman" is "LEAH" because Leah is one of the prominent female characters mentioned in the book of Genesis in the Bible.
Hit song title for Abba or Rihanna : SOS
The answer is "SOS" because it is a hit song title that has been used by both Abba and Rihanna.
It may be buried : LEDE
The answer to "It may be buried" is "LEDE" because "LEDE" is a term used in journalism to refer to the opening sentence or paragraph of a news article. In crossword puzzles, "buried" is a clue that suggests looking for a hidden or concealed word, and "LEDE" fits this description as it is hidden within the word "buried".
Keep : CASTLE
The word "keep" can have multiple meanings, and in this crossword clue, it is used in the sense of a fortified structure or stronghold. A castle is a type of keep, which makes it the correct answer.
Kitchen item for preparing cookies or pizza : SHEET PAN
The answer "SHEET PAN" is the right solution because it is a versatile kitchen item that can be used for preparing both cookies and pizza. It is a flat, rectangular pan with raised edges, perfect for baking various types of food, including cookies and pizza.
Leaves for lunch, maybe : SALAD
The answer "SALAD" is the right solution because leaves can refer to the leafy greens that are commonly used as the base of a salad. It is a common choice for a lunch option, making it a fitting answer to the clue.
Like a daiquiri vis-à-vis a shot of whiskey, say : FRUITIER
The clue is asking for a word that describes how a daiquiri is different from a shot of whiskey. The word "FRUITIER" fits because daiquiris typically contain fruit flavors, while whiskey does not.
Makeup of some wet bars : SOAP
The answer "SOAP" is the right solution because it is a common makeup or component of wet bars. Soap is used for cleaning and washing hands, making it a typical item found in wet bars.
Mattress support : SLATS
The answer "SLATS" is the right solution because slats are commonly used to support a mattress in a bed frame. They are long, narrow, and often made of wood or metal, providing a stable base for the mattress.
Modern meeting organizer : ZOOM HOST
The answer "ZOOM HOST" is the right solution because in modern times, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, Zoom has become a popular platform for virtual meetings and gatherings. A "ZOOM HOST" refers to the person who organizes and manages the meeting on the Zoom platform.
Moves around : STIRS
The answer "STIRS" is the right solution because it means to move around gently, often using a spoon or other utensil to mix ingredients together.
Musical intermission? : REST
The answer "REST" is the right solution because in music, a rest is a symbol that indicates a period of silence or a pause in the music. Just like an intermission in a musical performance, it represents a break or pause in the action.
On now : AIRING
The answer "AIRING" fits the clue "On now" because it refers to something that is currently being broadcasted or shown.
One decidedly not laissez-faire : MILITANT
The clue "One decidedly not laissez-faire" suggests that we are looking for a term that is opposite to being hands-off or non-interventionist. The word "militant" fits this description as it refers to someone who is active, aggressive, or combative in pursuing their beliefs or goals. Therefore, "militant" is the right solution for this clue.
One might attach to a toddler’s backpack : LEASH
The answer "LEASH" fits the clue because it is something that can be attached to a toddler's backpack to keep them close and prevent them from wandering off.
One way to stress something that’s important : DRAMATIC PAUSE
The answer "DRAMATIC PAUSE" is the right solution because a dramatic pause is a technique used in acting or public speaking to emphasize something important. It involves a brief silence or pause to create suspense or draw attention to a particular point.
Opens up, in a way : BLOOMS
The word "blooms" is the right answer because it means to open up or unfold, particularly in reference to flowers.
Photo of someone holding up the Leaning Tower of Pisa, say : VISUAL GAG
The answer "VISUAL GAG" is the right solution because a photo of someone holding up the Leaning Tower of Pisa is a humorous visual trick, commonly known as a visual gag.
Print sources, maybe : PAWS
Proceed with gusto : LET RIP
The phrase "let rip" means to proceed or act with enthusiasm or gusto. It fits perfectly with the clue "Proceed with gusto," making it the right solution.
Radicchio relative : ESCAROLE
The answer to "Radicchio relative" is "ESCAROLE" because escarole is a leafy green vegetable that belongs to the same family as radicchio, which is the chicory family. They share similar characteristics and are often used interchangeably in recipes.
Receive : ADMIT
The answer "ADMIT" is the right solution because it means to receive or accept someone or something, often into a place or group.
Recipe part : STEP
The answer to "Recipe part" is "STEP" because a recipe typically consists of a series of instructions, and each instruction can be considered a step in the overall process of making the dish.
Retreats in the sand : OASES
The word "retreats" suggests a place of escape or refuge. "In the sand" indicates that the answer should be related to a sandy environment. The word "oases" fits perfectly as it refers to small areas in deserts with water and vegetation, providing a retreat or refuge within the sandy landscape.
Sessions of congress? : TRYSTS
The answer "TRYSTS" is the right solution because "sessions" can also refer to romantic meetings or rendezvous. In this context, "Sessions of congress" is a playful clue indicating that the answer is a word related to meetings or gatherings, which fits the definition of "TRYSTS."
Setting for the film “1917,” familiarly : WWI
The answer "WWI" is the right solution because "1917" refers to the year during which World War I (WWI) took place.
Shade named for a bird : TEAL
The shade named "TEAL" is the right solution because it is a color that is often associated with the bird called the teal.
Sharp point on a kite : TALON
The answer "TALON" is the right solution because a talon is a sharp point or claw-like structure found on the feet of certain birds, such as eagles or hawks. This sharp point helps them grasp and hold onto their prey while flying. In the context of a kite, which is a type of bird-shaped toy flown in the sky, the sharp point on the kite can be referred to as a talon.
Slice of pie, mathematically : SECTOR
The term "slice of pie" is often used to describe a portion or division of a whole. In mathematics, a "sector" refers to a portion of a circle enclosed by two radii and an arc. Therefore, "slice of pie, mathematically" can be represented by the word "SECTOR."
Something held in church : TENET
The answer "TENET" is the right solution because a tenet is a principle or belief that is held or upheld, often in a religious or philosophical context. In a church setting, various tenets of faith are held and taught.
Start on a draft, say : SIP
The answer "SIP" is the right solution because when you start on a draft, you usually take a small drink or sip of it.
Supposed : SEEMING
The answer to "Supposed" is "SEEMING" because it means appearing to be true or real, even though it may not be.
The 411 : DEETS
The term "411" is often used to refer to information or details. "Deets" is a slang abbreviation for "details," so it is the right answer that fits the clue.
Treatment for someone in transition, in brief : HRT
The answer "HRT" stands for Hormone Replacement Therapy, which is a common treatment for individuals undergoing gender transition.
Turn down : PASS UP
The answer "PASS ON" is the right solution because it means to decline or reject something, which matches the clue "Turn down."
Up and coming : ON THE RISE
The phrase "on the rise" is commonly used to describe something that is increasing or becoming more successful. In the context of the clue "Up and coming," it suggests that the answer refers to something or someone that is gaining popularity or becoming more prominent.
Walks and runs, e.g. : STATS
The answer "STATS" is the right solution because it is a shortened form of the word "statistics." Walks and runs are both statistical categories in sports, so "STATS" accurately represents them.
Writer with good taste? : FOOD COLUMNIST
The answer "FOOD COLUMNIST" is the right solution because a food columnist is a writer who specializes in writing about food, recipes, and culinary experiences. The clue "Writer with good taste?" is a play on words, as it refers to both the writer having good judgment in writing and also having a literal good taste in food.
___ Institute, home of the Carl Sagan Center : SETI
The answer is "SETI" because the Carl Sagan Center is known for its research in the field of SETI, which stands for the Search for Extraterrestrial Intelligence.
___ Jackson Jr., actor who portrayed his father in “Straight Outta Compton” : O’SHEA
The answer is "O'SHEA" because O'Shea Jackson Jr. is the actor who portrayed his father, Ice Cube, in the movie "Straight Outta Compton."
“Did you enjoy yourself?” : HOW WAS IT?
The answer "HOW WAS IT?" fits the clue "Did you enjoy yourself?" because it is a common question asked to inquire about someone's experience or enjoyment of a particular event or activity.