Across
5 & 5-Down: Summer Shirt Solution: TANK TOP
Alt: A classic white tank top, a sleeveless shirt for summer, laid flat on a neutral background.
The answer “TANK TOP” reveals an interesting transatlantic language quirk. While in the US, a tank top is understood as a sleeveless shirt, akin to what many in Ireland and the UK would call a “vest.” However, in Ireland, a “tank top” refers to a sleeveless sweater, causing potential confusion for those familiar with both terminologies. The term’s origin is rooted in swimwear; it’s derived from “tank suit,” an older term for a one-piece women’s bathing suit. Interestingly, “tank” in this context comes from “swimming tank,” a term popular in the 1920s to describe a swimming pool. This etymology highlights how language evolves and adapts, sometimes leading to different meanings for the same words across regions.
13: Brontë Heroine Answer: EYRE
Alt: A vintage book cover of Jane Eyre by Charlotte Brontë, showcasing classic typography and author’s name.
“EYRE” points to Jane Eyre, the resilient and iconic protagonist of Charlotte Brontë’s masterpiece, published under her pseudonym Currer Bell. This novel, a cornerstone of English literature, explores themes of love, social class, and female independence in Victorian England. Its enduring appeal is evident in the famous closing line, “Reader, I married him,” which encapsulates the romantic core of the narrative. For those wishing to delve deeper into Jane’s world, the BBC produced a highly acclaimed 4-hour television adaptation, bringing the nuanced characters and atmospheric settings of the novel to life.
14: Woodwind Played by Andy Mackay of Roxy Music Answer: OBOE
Alt: Andy Mackay, a musician from Roxy Music, playing the oboe with stage lights in the background.
The answer “OBOE” highlights the multifaceted talent of Andy Mackay, a founding member of the influential art-rock band Roxy Music. While known for his saxophone prowess within the band, Mackay also plays the oboe, showcasing his diverse musical abilities. Interestingly, Mackay temporarily stepped away from his music career in the late 1980s and early 1990s to pursue theological studies at King’s College London, earning a Bachelor of Divinity degree. This demonstrates a fascinating blend of artistic and intellectual pursuits in his life.
15: Ireland, Poetically Answer: ERIN
Alt: A scenic map of Ireland, emphasizing the lush green landscape, symbolizing its poetic representation.
“ERIN” is the poetic name for Ireland, derived from “Éire,” the Irish word for the country. “Erin” is actually an anglicized form of “Éirinn,” the dative case of “Éire” in Irish grammar. This subtle grammatical distinction reveals the nuances of the Irish language and its influence on English poetic expressions. The use of “Erin” evokes a romantic and literary image of Ireland, often found in poetry and songs celebrating the nation’s beauty and history.
21: Business Letters? Answer: INC
Alt: A stack of formal business letters sealed with “INC.” embossed stickers, representing incorporated businesses.
The crossword answer “INC” refers to “Incorporated,” the abbreviation used after a company name to signify its corporate status. Incorporation transforms a business into a legal entity, granting it rights and responsibilities similar to an individual. This includes the ability to sue and be sued, enter into contracts, and own property, separate from its owners. However, the concept of “corporate personhood” is often debated, as corporations do not possess all the rights of natural citizens, such as Fifth Amendment protections against self-incrimination. This legal framework is crucial for understanding modern business structures and their place in society.
23: Starpilot and Smuggler Solo Answer: HAN
Alt: A portrait of Harrison Ford as Han Solo, the iconic starpilot and smuggler from Star Wars.
“HAN” points to Han Solo, the charismatic smuggler and starpilot from the Star Wars saga, famously portrayed by Harrison Ford. Ford’s casting in this pivotal role is a serendipitous Hollywood story. Initially hired by George Lucas to merely read lines for other actors auditioning for Star Wars, Lucas was gradually convinced of Ford’s suitability for the role of Han Solo. This accidental casting decision became iconic, launching Ford into superstardom and solidifying Han Solo as a beloved cinematic character.
24: No. Cruncher Answer: CPA
Alt: A professional seal graphic for “CPA – Certified Public Accountant,” signifying financial expertise.
“CPA” is the answer for “No. cruncher,” standing for Certified Public Accountant. CPAs are financial professionals who have met specific education and examination requirements and are licensed to provide accounting services to the public. Their expertise in financial analysis and reporting makes them essential “number crunchers” for businesses and individuals alike. The CPA designation is a mark of professional competence and integrity in the field of accounting.
33: Synthesizer Brand Answer: CASIO
Alt: A close-up of a Casio brand synthesizer keyboard, highlighting its electronic musical instrument features.
“CASIO” is a prominent brand of synthesizers, alongside its diverse range of electronic products. This Japanese company is renowned for producing affordable and accessible electronic devices, including calculators, watches, and, notably, synthesizers. Casio achieved a significant milestone in 1957 by creating the first portable and compact all-electric calculator, demonstrating its innovative approach to consumer electronics. The synthesizer itself revolutionized music creation, with pioneers like Robert Moog inventing the Moog Synthesizer in the 1960s, opening up new sonic landscapes for musicians.
35: Folder’s Loss Answer: ANTE
Alt: Poker chips and playing cards on a green felt surface, symbolizing a poker game where folding means losing the ante.
In poker, “ANTE” is the “Folder’s loss,” referring to the initial bet each player must place into the pot before cards are dealt. “To fold” in poker means to concede defeat and withdraw from the hand, forfeiting any chips already contributed, including the ante. The ante ensures there’s always something to play for in each hand, encouraging action and strategy in the game.
38: Cabs Answer: TAXIS
Alt: A line of iconic yellow taxi cabs in a bustling city environment, representing urban transportation.
“TAXIS” is the answer for “Cabs,” and the term itself is shortened from “taximeter cabs.” These were introduced in London in 1907, revolutionizing urban transportation. A taximeter is a device that automatically calculates fare based on distance traveled and time, ensuring fair and transparent pricing for passengers. The word “taximeter” evolved from “taxameter,” with “taxa” being Latin for “tax” or “charge,” highlighting the fare-calculating function of these early cabs.
41: Spy-fi Side Answer: USSR
Alt: The flag of the USSR, featuring the hammer and sickle symbol against a red background, representing the Soviet Union’s identity.
“USSR” is the “Spy-fi side,” referring to the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, a major player in Cold War spy narratives, often depicted in “spy-fi” (spy fiction) genres. The USSR was a communist superpower and the primary adversary of the West during the Cold War, making it a frequent antagonist in spy stories. This historical context is crucial for understanding the political undertones and ideological conflicts present in many spy-themed books, films, and television shows.
51: Brandy Bottle Letters Answer: VSO
Alt: A brandy bottle label clearly displaying “V.S.O.P,” indicating the brandy’s quality and aging.
“VSO” are “Brandy bottle letters,” representing “Very Superior Old,” a designation indicating the age and quality of brandy. Brandy, a spirit distilled from wine, derives its name from the Dutch “gebrande wijn,” meaning “burnt wine.” The aging process significantly influences brandy grades: VS (Very Special) signifies at least 2 years of aging, VSOP (Very Superior Old Pale) at least 4 years, XO (Extra Old) at least 6 years, and VSO (Very Superior Old) typically denotes 12-17 years of aging. These designations provide consumers with a quality hierarchy based on maturation.
52: Corvallis Sch. Answer: OSU
Alt: A campus sign for Oregon State University (OSU) in Corvallis, Oregon, with university branding.
“OSU” is the “Corvallis sch.,” referring to Oregon State University located in Corvallis, Oregon. Founded in 1868, OSU is a public research university with a unique distinction: it’s one of only two universities in the US (along with Pennsylvania State University) holding Land, Sea, Sun, and Space Grant designations. This signifies federal funding for research across these diverse areas. OSU also operates the R/V Oceanus, the largest research vessel in the US academic fleet, used for oceanographic studies. Corvallis itself, whose name originates from Latin words meaning “heart of the valley,” was briefly the capital of the Oregon Territory before Salem.
56: Fed. Stipend Answer: SSI
Alt: The official logo of the Social Security Administration (SSA), representing federal programs.
“SSI” is the “Fed. stipend,” standing for Supplemental Security Income. This US federal program provides financial aid to individuals with low incomes who are 65 or older, or are blind or disabled. Although administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA), SSI is funded through general tax revenues, not the Social Security trust fund. SSI serves as a crucial safety net for vulnerable populations, ensuring a basic level of financial support.
57: Like Good Angel Food Cake Answer: AIRY
Alt: A light and fluffy slice of angel food cake, showcasing its airy texture and white color.
“AIRY” describes “Like good angel food cake,” highlighting the cake’s signature light and fluffy texture. Angel food cake is an American invention, named for its delicate, cloud-like consistency, suggesting it’s “food of angels.” Its counterpart, Devil’s food cake, a rich chocolate butter cake, emerged later, creating a contrasting pair of sponge cakes with celestial and infernal names.
59: Rolls Partner Answer: ROYCE
Alt: The iconic Rolls-Royce logo featuring two intertwined “R”s, symbolizing the partnership of Rolls and Royce.
“ROYCE” is the “Rolls partner,” referring to Henry Royce, who co-founded the prestigious Rolls-Royce company in 1904 with Charles Rolls. Henry Royce, an engineer, focused on the mechanical aspects of the automobiles, while Charles Rolls, a businessman, managed the commercial side. Legend has it that Royce’s last words were, “I wish I had spent more time in the office…,” perhaps reflecting his dedication to his work. Sadly, Charles Rolls, a pioneering aviator, died in a plane crash in 1910, becoming the first Briton to perish in a powered aircraft accident.
61: Summertime Chore, or an Apt Title for This Puzzle Answer: AC INSTALLATION
Alt: An air conditioning unit being installed in a home window, representing a summertime chore and the puzzle’s theme.
“AC INSTALLATION” is the “Summertime chore, or an apt title for this puzzle,” cleverly combining a seasonal task with the crossword’s subject matter. Modern air conditioning, as we know it today, was invented by Willis Carrier in 1902. He later co-founded the Carrier Engineering Corporation in 1915. The Carrier Corporation eventually relocated to Syracuse, New York, in 1937. The Carrier name is also associated with Syracuse University’s Carrier Dome, a prominent landmark since its opening in 1980 and the largest on-campus basketball stadium in the US.
67: In a Thumb-Twiddling Way Answer: IDLY
Alt: Close-up of hands twiddling thumbs, illustrating boredom and inactivity, representing the word “idly.”
“IDLY” means “In a thumb-twiddling way,” describing doing nothing or spending time aimlessly. “To twiddle one’s thumbs” is an idiom that originated in the mid-1800s to describe inactivity. An earlier, 19th-century equivalent phrase was “to twirl one’s thumbs,” both capturing the same sense of idle time.
69: Comedian Foxx Answer: REDD
Alt: A portrait of Redd Foxx in character as Fred G. Sanford from the television show “Sanford and Son.”
“REDD” is the answer for “Comedian Foxx,” referring to Redd Foxx, the stage name of John Elroy Sanford. He is best remembered for his starring role in the sitcom “Sanford and Son.” “Sanford and Son” was an American adaptation of the British sitcom “Steptoe and Son,” a popular show in the UK and Ireland during the comedian’s upbringing.
70: Egg Cream Component Answer: SODA
Alt: A refreshing egg cream drink in a tall glass, showcasing its foamy top and soda fountain style.
“SODA” is an “Egg cream component.” Despite its name, an egg cream is a beverage that contains neither egg nor cream. Originating in Brooklyn in the late 1800s, this fountain drink is made from chocolate syrup, milk, and seltzer water (soda). Its unusual name and simple ingredients make it a distinctive and somewhat enigmatic beverage, often encountered in crossword puzzles.
Down
1: Cobbler Fruit Answer: PEACH
Alt: A warm and rustic peach cobbler dessert with golden-brown crust, highlighting peaches as the primary fruit.
“PEACH” is the “Cobbler fruit.” Cobbler, a dessert, originated in colonial America as settlers sought substitutes for suet pudding. Lacking traditional ingredients, they stewed fruits and topped them with uncooked biscuits or scones. The uneven surface of the baked topping resembled a “cobbled” street, giving the dessert its name. Peach is a classic and popular fruit choice for cobblers, lending its sweet and juicy flavor to the dish.
2: Sports Bra Fabric Answer: LYCRA
Alt: A close-up texture of a sports bra fabric made of Lycra, showcasing its elasticity and moisture-wicking properties.
“LYCRA” is the “Sports bra fabric.” What’s known as spandex in the US is called lycra in Britain and Ireland. “Spandex” was chosen as the name for this elastic fiber as it’s an anagram of “expands,” aptly describing its stretchable nature. The original sports bra, initially named a jockbra, was co-invented in 1977 by Lisa Lindahl, Hinda Miller, and Polly Smith. Their invention was recognized with induction into the US National Inventors Hall of Fame in 2022, highlighting its significant impact on athletic wear.
3: Obscure Stuff Answer: ARCANA
Alt: A set of Arcana tarot cards with mystical and esoteric symbols, representing obscure and hidden knowledge.
“ARCANA” means “Obscure stuff,” referring to deep secrets or mysteries. The word “arcana” comes from the Latin adjective “arcanum,” meaning “secret, hidden.” It often implies knowledge that is esoteric, understood by only a select few, or deliberately concealed. The term is frequently used in contexts related to occultism, magic, and hidden wisdom.
4: Like Crayola’s Unmellow Yellow and Atomic Tangerine Answer: NEON
Alt: A set of vibrant Crayola neon colored crayons, including Unmellow Yellow and Atomic Tangerine, showcasing bright and vivid hues.
“NEON” describes colors “Like Crayola’s Unmellow Yellow and Atomic Tangerine.” These Crayola color names exemplify neon shades, known for their bright, vibrant, and almost glowing appearance. Crayola has a history of renaming crayon colors, sometimes reflecting societal shifts. Examples include changing “Flesh” to “Peach” in 1962 (acknowledging diverse skin tones), “Prussian Blue” to “Midnight Blue” in 1958 (during the Cold War), and “Indian Red” to “Chestnut” in 1999 (despite the name’s origin not being related to “American Indian”).
6: Law School Accrediting Org. Answer: ABA
Alt: The logo of the American Bar Association (ABA), a national organization for legal professionals and law schools.
“ABA” is the “Law school accrediting org.,” referring to the American Bar Association. Founded in 1878, the ABA is a voluntary association for lawyers and law students in the United States. Its mission includes setting academic standards for law schools and establishing ethical codes for the legal profession, playing a crucial role in maintaining quality and ethics within the legal field.
8: Early Topic in Music Theory Answer: KEY OF C
Alt: A piano keyboard highlighting the white keys for the C major scale, an early concept in music theory.
“KEY OF C” is an “Early topic in music theory.” The diatonic scale, a foundational concept in Western music theory, is exemplified by the C-major scale: C–D–E–F–G–A–B. In the key of C major, these are the seven white keys on a piano. Playing all the black keys as well adds chromatic notes, resulting in a twelve-pitch chromatic (or twelve-tone) scale, expanding the tonal possibilities beyond the diatonic scale.
10: Pt. of ETA Answer: ARR
Alt: The abbreviation “ETA” for Estimated Time of Arrival, commonly used in travel and logistics.
“ARR” is the “Pt. of ETA,” short for Arrival. ETA stands for Estimated Time of Arrival, a common term in travel, transportation, and logistics. It indicates the predicted time of reaching a destination.
17: Holy City of Islam Answer: MECCA
Alt: The Kaaba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, the most sacred site in Islam, during the Hajj pilgrimage.
“MECCA” is the “Holy city of Islam.” Located in the Makkah province of Saudi Arabia, Mecca is the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad and the holiest city in Islam. Millions of Muslims undertake the Hajj, an annual pilgrimage to Mecca, as a central pillar of their faith. The Kaaba, located in Mecca, is the focal point of Muslim prayer and pilgrimage.
18: Singer Jay Known as the “King of Mandopop” Answer: CHOU
Alt: A portrait of Jay Chou, a Taiwanese musician and actor known as the “King of Mandopop.”
“CHOU” refers to Jay Chou, the singer known as the “King of Mandopop.” A highly successful musician, singer, songwriter, and actor from Taiwan, Jay Chou is a major superstar in the Mandarin-speaking world. He made his Hollywood debut in the 2011 film “The Green Hornet,” playing Kato, the sidekick. Mandopop, or Mandarin pop music, and Cantopop, Cantonese pop music, are subgenres of C-pop, encompassing pop music in Chinese languages.
22: Civil Rights Activist Chavez Answer: CESAR
Alt: A black and white portrait of Cesar Chavez, a prominent civil rights activist and labor leader.
“CESAR” points to César Chávez, a significant civil rights activist and labor leader. A Mexican-American farm worker, Chávez co-founded the United Farm Workers union. Born in Arizona, he became a migrant farm worker in California. After serving in the US Navy, he became a prominent advocate for farm workers’ rights, leading significant strikes and becoming a national figure. California commemorates his birthday, March 31, as a state holiday, honoring his legacy.
25: Fruity Pebbles Maker Answer: POST
Alt: A colorful box of Fruity Pebbles cereal, a popular breakfast cereal brand.
“POST” is the “Fruity Pebbles maker.” C.W. Post, inspired by the Battle Creek Sanitarium and its dietary products, entered the cereal industry. His first cereal, Grape-Nuts, was introduced in 1897. Post Cereals later launched Fruity Pebbles, a brightly colored, rice-based cereal, becoming a breakfast staple for many.
26: Ulaanbaatar’s Locale Answer: ASIA
Alt: A map of Asia with a pin marking Ulaanbaatar, the capital city of Mongolia, indicating its geographic location.
“ASIA” is “Ulaanbaatar’s locale.” Ulaanbaatar, the capital of Mongolia, is located in the continent of Asia. Formerly known as Ulan Bator, Ulaanbaatar’s name translates to “Red Hero,” chosen to honor Damdin Sükhbaatar, a Mongolian national hero. Sükhbaatar fought alongside the Soviet Red Army for Mongolia’s independence from Chinese occupation.
32: Footlocker Answer: TRUNK
Alt: A vintage steamer trunk, a type of luggage historically used for travel and storage, resembling a footlocker.
“TRUNK” is a synonym for “Footlocker.” In the late 18th and early 19th centuries, steamer trunks were the forerunners of modern carry-on luggage. These flat-topped, low-profile containers were designed to fit under bunks on steamships or trains. Steamer trunks were used for essential items, with main luggage holding the bulk of belongings. The term “footlocker” is often used interchangeably with “trunk,” particularly in military or dormitory contexts.
35: “Vice” Oscar Nominee Amy Answer: ADAMS
Alt: A portrait of Amy Adams, an acclaimed actress and Oscar nominee, known for her role in “Vice.”
“ADAMS” is the ““Vice” Oscar nominee Amy.” Amy Adams received an Oscar nomination for her role in the 2018 film “Vice,” a satirical biopic about Dick Cheney. Although American, Adams was born in Italy while her father was stationed there. She is also known for her role in “Julie & Julia,” acting alongside Meryl Streep. “Vice” offers a satirical take on Dick Cheney’s rise to power as US Vice President, with Christian Bale portraying Cheney and Adams as his wife, Lynne Vincent Cheney.
37: Strategic Answer: TACTICAL
Alt: A diagram contrasting “Strategy” as the overall plan with “Tactics” as specific actions to achieve the strategy, highlighting their relationship.
“TACTICAL” is related to “Strategic.” While often confused, “strategy” and “tactics” are distinct concepts. Originally in a military context, strategy is the overarching plan decided before engagement, while tactics are the specific actions implemented during an engagement, aligned with the broader strategy. Strategy sets the goals, and tactics are the methods to achieve them.
39: Intro to a Texter’s Two Cents Answer: IMHO
Alt: The abbreviation “IMHO” displayed in a text message bubble, representing “In My Humble Opinion.”
“IMHO” is the “Intro to a texter’s two cents.” “To put in one’s two cents” is an idiom meaning to offer one’s opinion. The American expression is derived from the older English phrase, “to put in one’s two pennies’ worth,” both conveying the act of contributing an opinion, often unsolicited. IMHO stands for “In My Humble Opinion,” a common internet and texting initialism used to preface a statement as a personal viewpoint.
43: Learned Experts Answer: SAVANTS
Alt: An image of a learned expert or savant, deeply engrossed in thought, symbolizing profound knowledge.
“SAVANTS” are “Learned experts.” A savant is a person with extensive learning or expertise, often in a specific field. The term “savant” is also short for “idiot savant,” a dated term for someone with developmental disabilities who exhibits exceptional abilities in areas like calculation or music. The term now is more broadly used to denote individuals with exceptional knowledge and expertise.
45: Luxury Honda Brand Answer: ACURA
Alt: The Acura logo, representing Honda’s luxury vehicle brand, known for premium cars.
“ACURA” is the “Luxury Honda brand.” Acura is the luxury vehicle division of the Japanese automaker Honda. Introduced in the US in 1986, Acura was the first luxury car brand from a Japanese manufacturer to enter the American market. The Acura Legend and Acura Integra were the initial models, establishing Acura as a competitor in the luxury car segment.
47: Goddess Often Depicted Holding an Ankh Answer: ISIS
Alt: An artistic depiction of the Egyptian goddess Isis holding an ankh, symbol of eternal life, highlighting her association with the ankh.
“ISIS” is the “Goddess often depicted holding an ankh.” Isis was a major goddess in ancient Egyptian religion, associated with fertility, motherhood, magic, death, healing, and rebirth. She was also considered the protector of the dead and goddess of children. Isis was often depicted holding an ankh, the Egyptian hieroglyph for “eternal life.” The name “Isis” translates to “throne,” and she is frequently shown wearing a throne-shaped headdress. The ankh, also known as “the key of the Nile” and “crux ansata,” was used in amulets and mirrors, symbolizing eternal life and perhaps a gateway to another world.
48: Masonry Mixture Answer: MORTAR
Alt: A mason applying mortar between bricks, demonstrating the use of mortar in masonry construction.
“MORTAR” is a “Masonry mixture.” Cement, mortar, and concrete are related materials, often confused. Cement is a binder that hardens and binds materials. Mortar is made from cement and fine aggregate, creating a paste to bind building blocks like bricks. Concrete is a mixture of cement, sand, and gravel, forming a robust building material. Mortar’s primary function is to bond bricks or stones together in masonry construction.
55: Home Country of Marathon World Record Holder Kelvin Kiptum Answer: KENYA
Alt: A photo of Kelvin Kiptum, a Kenyan long-distance runner and marathon world record holder.
“KENYA” is the “Home country of marathon world record holder Kelvin Kiptum.” Kelvin Kiptum, a long-distance runner from Kenya, set a marathon world record in Valencia, Spain, in 2022. Tragically, Kiptum and his coach, Gervais Hakizimana, died in a car crash in 2024. Kenya is renowned for producing world-class long-distance runners, and Kiptum’s achievements were a source of national pride.
58: Handsome Dan’s School Answer: YALE
Alt: Handsome Dan, the bulldog mascot of Yale University, a symbol of Yale Bulldogs athletics.
“YALE” is “Handsome Dan’s school.” Handsome Dan is the mascot for the Yale Bulldogs, the athletic teams of Yale University. The Yale Bulldogs logo features a bulldog in front of the letter Y, and Handsome Dan, a live bulldog, is a beloved symbol of the university and its athletic programs.
60: __ Spunkmeyer Answer: OTIS
Alt: A display of Otis Spunkmeyer brand cookies, known for their muffins and cookies in retail and foodservice.
“OTIS” completes “__ Spunkmeyer.” Otis Spunkmeyer is a company famous for producing muffins and cookies. Founded in 1977 by Kenneth Rawlings in Oakland, California, the name “Otis Spunkmeyer” is fictional, created by Rawlings’ 12-year-old daughter. The brand is well-known in retail and foodservice for its pre-packaged baked goods.
64: Microdosing Initials Answer: LSD
Alt: The chemical molecule structure of LSD (lysergic acid diethylamide), a psychedelic drug used in microdosing.
“LSD” is the “Microdosing initials.” Psychedelic microdosing involves taking very low doses of psychedelic substances, such as lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD) and psilocybin (from magic mushrooms), to potentially enhance creativity and well-being. This practice has gained attention for its purported cognitive and emotional benefits, although research is ongoing.
