Looking for today's crossword puzzle answers? This comprehensive crossword solution guide provides detailed explanations for every clue, helping you understand not just the answers but the reasoning behind them. Whether you're stuck on a few challenging clues or want to verify your completed puzzle, our expert analysis covers both ACROSS and DOWN solutions with educational context.
Number of Years in a Decade Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: TEN
A decade represents exactly ten consecutive years in our calendar system. This fundamental time measurement comes from the Latin "decem," meaning ten, and serves as a standard unit for measuring historical periods, demographic studies, and cultural trends. Decades are commonly referenced in historical contexts, such as "the roaring twenties" or "the swinging sixties."
Ewe's Mate Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: RAM
In sheep terminology, a ram is the adult male sheep that mates with ewes (female sheep). Rams are characterized by their distinctive curved horns and are essential for breeding in sheep farming operations. The term "ram" also appears in various other contexts, including computer memory (Random Access Memory) and the zodiac sign Aries.
Prefix Meaning "Three" Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: TRI
The prefix "tri-" originates from Latin "tres" and Greek "treis," both meaning three. This versatile prefix appears in numerous English words including triangle (three angles), tricycle (three wheels), trilogy (three related works), and trinity (three-in-one concept). Understanding common prefixes like "tri-" significantly improves vocabulary and word recognition skills.
Mud Bath Spot Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: SPA
A spa traditionally refers to a health resort or facility offering therapeutic treatments, including the famous mud baths known for their purported skin benefits. The term originates from the Belgian town of Spa, renowned for its mineral springs. Modern spas offer various wellness services, from massage therapy to mineral mud treatments that are believed to detoxify and rejuvenate the skin.
"May ___ the Honors?": 2 wds. Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: IDO
This common polite phrase "May I do the honors?" is typically used when someone offers to perform a special task or ceremony, such as cutting a cake, making a toast, or opening a bottle. The expression demonstrates courtesy and respect while volunteering for a privileged action. It's frequently heard at celebrations, formal events, and social gatherings.
"I ___ the Sheriff" (Bob Marley Song) Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: SHOT
"I Shot the Sheriff" is one of Bob Marley's most famous reggae songs, originally written and recorded by him in 1973. The song gained additional popularity when Eric Clapton covered it in 1974, reaching number one on the Billboard Hot 100. This classic reggae anthem showcases Marley's storytelling ability and social commentary through music.
Peck or Smooch, e.g. Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: KISS
A kiss encompasses various forms of affectionate contact, from a quick peck on the cheek to a romantic smooch. This universal human gesture expresses love, affection, greeting, or farewell across cultures worldwide. The word "kiss" derives from Old English "cyssan" and represents one of humanity's most fundamental expressions of emotional connection.
"My Gal ___" (1942 Film by Irving Cummings) Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: SAL
"My Gal Sal" was a popular 1942 Technicolor musical film starring Rita Hayworth and Victor Mature. Directed by Irving Cummings, this biographical musical told the story of songwriter Paul Dresser and featured period songs and elaborate dance numbers. The film represents classic Hollywood's golden age of musicals and showcased Hayworth's dancing and acting talents.
Key ___ Pie Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: LIME
Key lime pie is a classic American dessert originating from the Florida Keys, made with key lime juice, condensed milk, and egg yolks in a pie crust. This tart and creamy dessert became the official state pie of Florida in 2006. Key limes are smaller and more acidic than regular Persian limes, giving the pie its distinctive flavor profile.
Word Before "Mate" to Finish Off in Chess Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: CHECK
In chess terminology, "checkmate" represents the ultimate winning position where the opponent's king is under attack and cannot escape capture. The word derives from Persian "shah mat," meaning "the king is dead." Understanding chess terminology and strategy involves recognizing threats, defensive positions, and tactical combinations that lead to checkmate scenarios.
"Lose Yourself" Rapper Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: EMINEM
Eminem, born Marshall Bruce Mathers III, is a Grammy Award-winning rapper who performed "Lose Yourself" for the 2002 film "8 Mile." This song became his first number-one single and won the Academy Award for Best Original Song, making Eminem the first rap artist to receive this honor. The track exemplifies his lyrical prowess and storytelling ability.
It Comes with a Happy Meal Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: TOY
McDonald's Happy Meal has included a small toy as part of its children's meal package since 1979. These collectible toys often tie into popular movies, TV shows, or franchise characters, making Happy Meals appealing to young customers. The toy component has become a significant marketing strategy in the fast-food industry, creating anticipation and repeat purchases.
"Let ___" ("Stop Worrying"): 2 wds. Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ITGO
"Let it go" is a common English idiom meaning to stop worrying about something or to release control over a situation. This phrase gained renewed popularity through Disney's "Frozen" soundtrack, but it has long been used in therapeutic and self-help contexts to encourage acceptance and emotional release. The expression promotes mental wellness and stress reduction.
"All the ___ Moves," 1983 Sports Film Starring Tom Cruise Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: RIGHT
"All the Right Moves" is a 1983 sports drama film starring Tom Cruise as a high school football player seeking a college scholarship. This early Cruise vehicle showcased his athletic abilities and dramatic range before his breakthrough in "Top Gun." The film explores themes of small-town dreams, athletic ambition, and the pressure faced by young athletes.
High-___ Graphics (Good Quality) Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: RES
"High-res" is short for high-resolution, referring to graphics, images, or displays with superior clarity and detail. Resolution measures the amount of detail an image holds, typically expressed in pixels. High-resolution graphics are essential for professional photography, digital art, printing, and modern display technologies, providing crisp, clear visual experiences.
Adam's Partner Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: EVE
In biblical tradition, Eve was the first woman and Adam's companion in the Garden of Eden. According to Genesis, Eve was created from Adam's rib to be his partner and helper. This foundational story appears in Jewish, Christian, and Islamic traditions, representing themes of companionship, temptation, and the origin of humanity.
Largest Living Bird Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: OSTRICH
The ostrich (Struthio camelus) is the world's largest living bird species, native to Africa. These flightless birds can reach heights of up to 9 feet and weigh over 300 pounds. Ostriches are known for their incredible running speed (up to 45 mph), their large eggs (the biggest of any bird), and their distinctive long necks and legs.
Cat's Doctor, for Short Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: VET
A veterinarian, commonly shortened to "vet," is a medical professional who specializes in animal healthcare. Veterinary medicine encompasses preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and surgery for domestic pets, livestock, and wildlife. The profession requires extensive education and training to address the diverse medical needs of various animal species.
1975 Thriller Film Starring Richard Dreyfuss Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: JAWS
"Jaws" is Steven Spielberg's legendary 1975 thriller about a great white shark terrorizing a beach town. Starring Richard Dreyfuss, Roy Scheider, and Robert Shaw, this film revolutionized summer blockbuster filmmaking and created the modern movie marketing template. The movie's success established Spielberg as a major director and launched the era of high-concept summer films.
Apple's Portable Music Device Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: IPOD
The iPod, launched by Apple in 2001, revolutionized portable music consumption and helped establish Apple's dominance in consumer electronics. This innovative device allowed users to carry thousands of songs in their pocket, fundamentally changing how people listen to and purchase music. The iPod's success paved the way for subsequent Apple innovations like the iPhone and iPad.
Baby Barker Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: PUP
A pup is the common term for a baby dog, though it also applies to young seals, wolves, and other canines. Puppies typically depend on their mothers for several weeks after birth before being weaned and socialized. The term "pup" comes from Middle French "poupée," meaning doll, reflecting the cute, toy-like appearance of young dogs.
Grumpy Facial Expression (Anagram of "Cowls") Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: SCOWL
A scowl is a facial expression characterized by a furrowed brow and downturned mouth, typically indicating anger, disapproval, or concentration. This word is indeed an anagram of "cowls" (hooded garments). Facial expressions like scowling are universal forms of non-verbal communication that convey emotions across cultural boundaries.
Opposite of "Present" Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ABSENT
"Absent" means not present or missing from a particular place or situation. In educational contexts, attendance is tracked by marking students as present or absent. The word derives from Latin "absens," meaning "being away." Understanding antonyms like present/absent helps develop vocabulary and language comprehension skills.
Last Month, for Short Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: DEC
December, abbreviated as "DEC," is the twelfth and final month of the Gregorian calendar year. Named after the Latin "decem" (ten), December was originally the tenth month in the Roman calendar. This winter month is associated with holidays like Christmas and Hanukkah, marking the end of the calendar year in most Western cultures.
Wooden Shipping Container Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: CRATE
A crate is a sturdy wooden container used for shipping, storing, or transporting goods. These slatted boxes provide protection while allowing air circulation, making them ideal for shipping fragile items, produce, or valuable goods. Wooden crates have been essential in global commerce for centuries, facilitating trade and transportation across various industries.
"Hey There ___" (Song by Plain White T's) Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: DELILAH
"Hey There Delilah" is a popular acoustic rock song by the Plain White T's, released in 2006. This Grammy-nominated hit reached number one on the Billboard Hot 100 and tells the story of a long-distance relationship. The song's simple melody and heartfelt lyrics made it a crossover success, appealing to both rock and pop audiences.
First Ask on Many Application Forms Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: NAME
Name is typically the first piece of information requested on application forms, identification documents, and registration processes. This fundamental identifier establishes personal identity and enables record-keeping, communication, and legal documentation. Names carry cultural, familial, and personal significance across all societies and legal systems.
"___ Proud of You!": 2 wds. Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: IAM
"I am proud of you" is a powerful expression of support, recognition, and encouragement. This phrase validates achievement, effort, and personal growth, playing a crucial role in building self-esteem and motivation. Positive reinforcement through expressions of pride strengthens relationships and encourages continued success and development.
"A Nightmare on ___ Street," 1984 Horror Film Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ELM
"A Nightmare on Elm Street" is Wes Craven's iconic 1984 horror film that introduced the character Freddy Krueger. This supernatural slasher film spawned numerous sequels and became a cornerstone of 1980s horror cinema. The movie's innovative concept of a killer who attacks through dreams created a unique and terrifying premise that influenced horror filmmaking.
Opposite of "WSW": Abbr. Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ENE
ENE stands for East-Northeast, a compass direction exactly opposite to WSW (West-Southwest). These intermediate compass points help provide more precise directional references than the basic cardinal directions (North, South, East, West). Navigation, meteorology, and geographic orientation rely on these detailed directional abbreviations for accuracy.
Making Out on the Bus, Say: Abbr. Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: PDA
PDA stands for "Public Display of Affection," referring to physical intimacy shown in public spaces. This acronym describes behaviors like kissing, hugging, or other romantic gestures performed where others can observe. Different cultures have varying levels of acceptance for PDA, and social norms often dictate appropriate public behavior.
Ernie ___, South African Golfer Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ELS
Ernie Els, nicknamed "The Big Easy," is a professional golfer from South Africa known for his smooth swing and major championship victories. A World Golf Hall of Fame inductee, Els has won four major championships and numerous international tournaments. His successful career has made him one of South Africa's most celebrated golfers and a global ambassador for the sport.
DOWN Clues: Complete Solutions and Explanations
Tongue-Clicking Sound of Disapproval Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: TSK
"Tsk" represents the onomatopoeia for a tongue-clicking sound made to express disapproval, disappointment, or mild reproach. This vocal gesture involves clicking the tongue against the roof of the mouth, creating a sharp sound that conveys judgment without words. The expression appears across cultures as a non-verbal form of criticism or concern.
___ Fail (Disaster) Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: EPIC
"Epic fail" is modern slang describing a spectacular or memorable failure, often used humorously to describe mistakes or mishaps. The term gained popularity through internet culture and social media, where amusing failures are shared and celebrated. The word "epic" amplifies the significance of the failure, making it noteworthy rather than merely disappointing.
American Poet Ogden ___ Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: NASH
Ogden Nash (1902-1971) was a beloved American poet known for his whimsical, humorous verse and unconventional rhyme schemes. His clever wordplay and satirical observations about everyday life made poetry accessible and entertaining to general audiences. Nash's work appeared in numerous magazines and collections, establishing him as a master of light verse.
"___ Business," 1983 Teen Comedy Film Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: RISKY
"Risky Business" is a 1983 coming-of-age comedy-drama starring Tom Cruise in his breakthrough role. The film follows a teenager who gets involved with a call girl while his parents are away, leading to various complications. This movie launched Cruise's career and became a cultural touchstone of 1980s cinema, known for its soundtrack and memorable scenes.
Oral Health Group: Abbr. Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ADA
The ADA represents the American Dental Association, the primary professional organization for dentists in the United States. Founded in 1859, the ADA establishes dental practice standards, provides continuing education, and advocates for oral health awareness. The organization's seal of approval on dental products indicates they meet safety and effectiveness standards.
Marilyn Monroe's Beauty Spot Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: MOLE
Marilyn Monroe's distinctive facial mole became one of her most recognizable features, located on her left cheek. This natural beauty mark was considered glamorous and became part of her iconic image. Beauty spots or moles have historically been considered attractive features, sometimes even artificially created with makeup in various fashion eras.
"The ___," 1982 Sci-Fi Horror Film Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: THING
"The Thing" is John Carpenter's masterful 1982 science fiction horror film starring Kurt Russell. This paranoid thriller about an alien entity that can perfectly imitate any life form it absorbs created intense atmosphere and groundbreaking special effects. The film has since been recognized as a classic of both horror and science fiction cinema.
Juliet's Beloved Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ROMEO
Romeo Montague is the male protagonist in Shakespeare's tragic play "Romeo and Juliet." This young lover's passionate romance with Juliet Capulet represents one of literature's most famous love stories. The character embodies romantic idealism and the destructive power of feuding families, making "Romeo" synonymous with romantic devotion and tragic love.
Part of a List Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ITEM
An item is an individual element or entry within a list, inventory, or collection. Items can represent physical objects, tasks, topics, or any discrete unit being organized or catalogued. The concept of itemization is fundamental to organization, record-keeping, and systematic thinking across various fields and daily activities.
Narrow Opening in a Skirt Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: SLIT
A slit in clothing design refers to a narrow opening or cut, typically found in skirts, dresses, or sleeves to allow for movement or decorative effect. Fashion designers use slits strategically to add elegance, functionality, or visual interest to garments. The placement and length of slits can significantly impact both the garment's appearance and the wearer's mobility.
___ MacFarlane of "Family Guy" Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: SETH
Seth MacFarlane is an American animator, writer, producer, and voice actor best known for creating the animated series "Family Guy," "American Dad," and "The Orville." MacFarlane voices several characters on his shows and has also pursued a successful music career, releasing jazz albums that showcase his vocal talents and appreciation for classic American standards.
Small Foldable Bed Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: COT
A cot is a portable, lightweight bed typically used for temporary sleeping arrangements, camping, or situations requiring space-saving furniture. These foldable beds provide basic sleeping comfort while being easily stored or transported. Cots are commonly used in military settings, guest accommodations, and emergency shelters due to their practicality and convenience.
Waterfall Spray Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: MIST
Mist refers to the fine water droplets that form around waterfalls due to the force of falling water hitting rocks or pools below. This natural phenomenon creates a refreshing atmosphere and often supports unique plant life in the surrounding area. Waterfall mist contributes to the aesthetic beauty and microclimate around these natural formations.
Accelerate, as an Engine Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: REV
To "rev" an engine means to increase its RPM (revolutions per minute) by pressing the accelerator, causing the engine to run faster and louder. This action is often performed to warm up an engine, test its performance, or prepare for acceleration. The term comes from "revolution," referring to the engine's rotational speed.
"___ Been Thinking ..." Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: IVE
"I've been thinking" is a common conversational opener used to introduce ideas, concerns, or reflections that have been developing over time. This phrase suggests deliberate consideration and often precedes important discussions or announcements. It indicates that the speaker has given thoughtful attention to a particular matter.
"Let's ___ Down to Business" Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: GET
"Let's get down to business" is an idiomatic expression meaning to start focusing on serious work or important matters. This phrase signals a transition from casual conversation or preliminary activities to productive, goal-oriented effort. It's commonly used in professional settings to redirect attention toward essential tasks or discussions.
Column's Counterpart Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ROW
In data organization and table structures, rows and columns represent the two fundamental dimensions of grid-based layouts. While columns run vertically, rows run horizontally, creating intersecting cells that organize information systematically. This relationship is essential in spreadsheets, databases, and various forms of data presentation and analysis.
Feminine Suffix with "Host" Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ESS
The suffix "-ess" traditionally indicates feminine forms of certain nouns, as in "hostess" (female host). However, modern usage increasingly favors gender-neutral terms, with many traditionally feminine suffixes falling out of common use. Language evolution reflects changing social attitudes toward gender roles and professional equality.
"The Addams Family" Actress Christina ___ Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: RICCI
Christina Ricci portrayed Wednesday Addams in the 1991 film "The Addams Family" and its 1993 sequel. Her darkly comedic performance as the macabre young daughter became iconic and launched her successful acting career. Ricci's portrayal perfectly captured Wednesday's deadpan delivery and gothic sensibility, making the character memorable for audiences.
Wall Street Debut: Abbr. Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: IPO
IPO stands for Initial Public Offering, the process by which a private company offers shares to the public for the first time. This significant financial event allows companies to raise capital from public investors and marks their transition from private to publicly traded status. IPOs are closely watched by investors and financial analysts as indicators of market confidence.
Milk Maid? Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: COW
This clever clue plays on the double meaning of "maid," referring to a cow as the producer or "maker" of milk rather than a female domestic worker. Dairy cows are essential to the agricultural industry, providing milk that becomes various dairy products. The wordplay demonstrates how crossword clues often use puns and alternative meanings to create engaging puzzles.
Cholesterol that is Good for You: Abbr. Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: HDL
HDL stands for High-Density Lipoprotein, often called "good cholesterol" because it helps transport cholesterol from other parts of the body back to the liver for disposal. Higher HDL levels are associated with reduced risk of heart disease and stroke. Understanding cholesterol types helps people make informed decisions about diet and cardiovascular health.
July Preceder Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: JUNE
June is the sixth month of the Gregorian calendar and immediately precedes July. Named after the Roman goddess Juno, June is traditionally associated with weddings, graduations, and the beginning of summer in the Northern Hemisphere. This month features the summer solstice, marking the longest day of the year.
Like a Befitting Reply Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: APT
"Apt" means appropriate, suitable, or fitting for a particular situation. An apt reply demonstrates relevance, timing, and appropriateness to the context or question being addressed. The word derives from Latin "aptus," meaning fitted or suited, and indicates precision in matching response to circumstance.
___ Davidson, Former "SNL" Comedian Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: PETE
Pete Davidson is a comedian and actor who was a cast member on "Saturday Night Live" from 2014 to 2022. Known for his self-deprecating humor and candid discussions about mental health, Davidson has also appeared in films and stand-up specials. His comedy often draws from personal experiences and contemporary culture.
"Legally Blonde" Actress ___ Blair Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: SELMA
Selma Blair portrayed Vivian Kensington in the 2001 comedy "Legally Blonde," starring alongside Reese Witherspoon. Blair has had a successful acting career in both comedy and drama, appearing in films like "Cruel Intentions" and "Hellboy." She has also been an advocate for multiple sclerosis awareness after her own diagnosis.
Skin Breakout Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ACNE
Acne is a common skin condition that occurs when hair follicles become clogged with oil and dead skin cells, resulting in pimples, blackheads, and whiteheads. This condition primarily affects adolescents but can occur at any age. Understanding acne causes and treatments helps people manage this widespread dermatological concern effectively.
Kellogg's Raisin ___ (Popular Breakfast Choice) Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: BRAN
Raisin Bran is a popular breakfast cereal combining bran flakes with raisins, marketed for its fiber content and nutritional benefits. Kellogg's version has been a breakfast staple since 1942, promoting digestive health through its high fiber content. The combination of whole grains and dried fruit appeals to health-conscious consumers.
"Are We on the ___ Page?" Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: SAME
"Are we on the same page?" is an idiomatic expression asking whether all parties share the same understanding or agreement about a particular topic or situation. This phrase emphasizes the importance of clear communication and mutual comprehension in effective collaboration and decision-making processes.
"The Evil ___," 1981 Horror Film Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: DEAD
"The Evil Dead" is Sam Raimi's 1981 horror film that launched both his career and that of star Bruce Campbell. This low-budget supernatural horror movie became a cult classic, spawning sequels and a franchise. The film's innovative camera work and blend of horror and dark comedy influenced numerous future filmmakers.
Quick Swim Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: DIP
A dip refers to a brief, casual swim or immersion in water, typically shorter and less formal than extended swimming sessions. This term suggests a quick cooling off or refreshing activity, often spontaneous and recreational. Taking a dip is a common summer activity for quick relief from heat.
Martial Artist Bruce Who Was Nicknamed "The Little Dragon" Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: LEE
Bruce Lee (1940-1973) was a legendary martial artist, actor, and philosopher who revolutionized martial arts films and popularized kung fu in Western culture. Known as "The Little Dragon," Lee developed his own martial arts philosophy called Jeet Kune Do and starred in iconic films like "Enter the Dragon." His influence extends far beyond entertainment into fitness, philosophy, and popular culture.
Every Bit Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: ALL
"All" represents totality, completeness, or the entire quantity of something. This fundamental word expresses absolute inclusion without exception. In the context of "every bit," it emphasizes that nothing is excluded or partial—the entire amount or extent is being referenced.
___ Queen Elizabeth (Royal Navy Ship): Abbr. Daily Themed Crossword Clue
Answer: HMS
HMS stands for "Her Majesty's Ship" (or "His Majesty's Ship" during male monarchs' reigns), the prefix used for ships in the British Royal Navy. HMS Queen Elizabeth refers to the lead ship of the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, one of the largest warships ever built for the Royal Navy. This naming convention reflects the ship's service to the British Crown.
Crossword Solving Tips and Strategies
Understanding Crossword Conventions:
- Abbreviations in clues typically indicate abbreviated answers
- Question marks often signal wordplay or puns
- Quotation marks usually indicate exact phrases or titles
- Numbers in clues may refer to word count or years
Improving Your Solving Skills:
- Start with shorter answers to build crossing letters
- Look for common prefixes, suffixes, and word patterns
- Consider multiple meanings of words in clues
- Use crossing letters to verify uncertain answers
Common Crossword Knowledge:
- Three-letter words often include articles, pronouns, and abbreviations
- Four-letter words frequently appear as past tense verbs or common nouns
- Five-letter words often represent complete concepts or names
- Longer answers typically contain more specific or technical terms
