Here is the complete list of clues and answers for the Thursday March 30th 2023, LA Times crossword puzzle.
ACROSS
1 Not in the mood for any funny stuff : STERN
Answer: This clue is looking for a five-letter word that means not inclined to be amused or lighthearted. The answer is STERN, which can mean serious or unsmiling in demeanor.
6 Bartending tool : SPOON
Answer: This clue is looking for a six-letter word that is a common tool used by bartenders. The answer is SPOON, which is often used to layer ingredients or to mix cocktails.
11 Proof letters : QED
Answer: This clue is looking for a three-letter abbreviation that is often used in mathematics to signify the end of a proof. The answer is QED, which stands for “quod erat demonstrandum,” a Latin phrase meaning “which was to be demonstrated.”
14 Threepio’s pal : ARTOO
Answer: This clue is looking for a five-letter name of a character from the Star Wars franchise who is a friend of C-3PO. The answer is ARTOO, which refers to R2-D2, a droid known for his resourcefulness and loyalty.
15 Khaki-colored cloth : CHINO
Answer: This clue is looking for a five-letter word that refers to a type of cloth that is often used to make pants or trousers. The answer is CHINO, which is a twill fabric that can be made from cotton, synthetic fibers, or a blend of the two.
16 Stars-and-stripes land: Abbr. : USA
Answer: This clue is looking for a three-letter abbreviation that refers to a country that is often associated with the Stars and Stripes flag. The answer is USA, which stands for the United States of America.
17 *Office meeting spot : WATERCOOLER
Answer: This clue is looking for a twelve-letter phrase that refers to a common gathering spot in an office where employees can chat and socialize. The answer is WATERCOOLER, which is a place where people can fill up their water bottles or cups and catch up on the latest news and gossip.
19 Doctrine : ISM
Answer: This clue is looking for a three-letter word that refers to a set of beliefs or principles. The answer is ISM, which is a common suffix used to form words that describe a particular ideology or philosophy.
20 Place for a spring break? : SPA
Answer: This clue is looking for a three-letter word that refers to a place where people can go to relax and rejuvenate, especially during a break from school or work. The answer is SPA, which typically offers various health and wellness treatments, such as massages, facials, and hydrotherapy.
21 Daily grind : RUT
Answer: This clue is looking for a three-letter word that refers to a monotonous routine or a habitual way of doing things. The answer is RUT, which can also refer to a deep track or groove worn in the ground by repeated use.
22 Food truck fare : TACOS
This crossword clue refers to a popular dish that is often served at food trucks. Tacos are a traditional Mexican dish that consists of a folded tortilla filled with various ingredients, such as meat, cheese, vegetables, and salsa. They are a favorite food item among people who love spicy food and are easy to prepare and serve on the go.
24 *Time for a cold one, facetiously : BEER O’CLOCK
This crossword clue is a playful way of referring to the time of day when it’s acceptable to start drinking beer. The term “beer o’clock” is used humorously to indicate that it’s time to relax and enjoy a cold beer after a long day or week of work.
28 Amazed : IN AWE
This crossword clue refers to a state of being amazed or astonished by something. When you are in awe, you feel a sense of wonder and admiration for something that is impressive or extraordinary.
30 Candor : HONESTY
This crossword clue refers to the quality of being honest and straightforward in one’s communication. Candor is an important trait in building trust and healthy relationships, as it promotes open and honest communication.
33 Pool resources : UNITE
This crossword clue refers to the act of combining or consolidating resources for a common goal. When people unite, they pool their resources, skills, and expertise to achieve a shared objective, such as a successful business venture or a social cause.
34 Close : SEAL
This crossword clue refers to the act of securing or closing something, such as an envelope or a container, with a seal. A seal can be a sticker, tape, or wax impression that ensures the contents of a package or letter are not tampered with.
36 __ yum: Thai soup : TOM
This crossword clue refers to a popular Thai soup dish called Tom Yum. It’s a spicy and sour soup that is typically made with shrimp, lemongrass, chili peppers, and other herbs and spices.
37 *First love, perhaps : HIGH-SCHOOL CRUSH
This crossword clue refers to a person’s first romantic interest during their teenage years, often referred to as a high-school crush. It’s a common experience for many people, and the term is often used to describe the excitement and infatuation that come with first love.
41 “Sooo annoying” : UGH
This crossword clue is an expression of frustration or annoyance with something. It’s often used to indicate a feeling of exasperation or irritation with a situation or a person.
42 [Hands off my Friskies!] : HISS
This crossword clue refers to the sound that a cat makes when it’s threatened or feels defensive. A hiss is a warning signal that a cat uses to deter potential attackers or to assert its boundaries. The phrase “Hands off my Friskies!” suggests that the cat is protective of its food and doesn’t want anyone else to touch it.
43 Tyler Perry character in “Diary of a Mad Black Woman” : MADEA
Madea is a character played by Tyler Perry in many of his stage plays, movies, and television shows. Madea is an elderly African American woman who is known for her sharp tongue and no-nonsense attitude. In “Diary of a Mad Black Woman,” Madea takes in her granddaughter after the granddaughter’s mother (Madea’s daughter) kicks her out of the house.
44 Major babes : HOTTIES
“Hotties” is a slang term used to refer to attractive or desirable people, usually women. The term is often used in a lighthearted or playful way, but it can also be seen as objectifying.
47 April Fools’ Day declaration : GOT YA
“Got ya” is a phrase used to indicate that someone has been fooled or tricked. It’s a common expression on April Fools’ Day, which is celebrated on April 1st and is a day for playing practical jokes and pranks on others.
48 *Small-scale investments : MICROLOANS
Microloans are small loans given to entrepreneurs, typically in developing countries, to help them start or grow a business. Microloans are often given to individuals who do not have access to traditional bank loans and can be used to fund a wide range of businesses, from small farms to street vendors.
51 Fifth flavor : UMAMI
Umami is considered the fifth basic taste, along with sweet, sour, salty, and bitter. It’s a Japanese word that translates to “pleasant savory taste” and is often described as a meaty or brothy flavor. Umami is found in many foods, including meat, fish, cheese, mushrooms, and soy sauce.
53 Tech giant based in Armonk, NY : IBM
IBM (International Business Machines) is a multinational technology company based in Armonk, New York. IBM produces and sells computer hardware, middleware, and software, and provides consulting and hosting services in areas ranging from mainframe computers to nanotechnology.
54 Tidal action : EBB
Ebb is a term used to describe the movement of the tide as it goes out or recedes from the shore. Ebb is the opposite of flood, which describes the movement of the tide as it comes in or advances toward the shore.
57 Tavern : BAR
A tavern is a type of establishment that serves alcoholic beverages, typically beer and wine, and sometimes food. Taverns have been around for centuries and were once an important social hub for communities.
58 What autumn leaves do, and what five letters do in the answer to each starred clue : CHANGE COLOR
In the fall, many tree leaves change color from green to various shades of yellow, orange, and red before falling off the tree. In the context of the crossword puzzle, the answer to each starred clue contains five letters that can be rearranged to spell “COLOR,” emphasizing the theme of changing colors.
63 __ contact : EYE
“Eye contact” refers to the act of looking directly into someone’s eyes during a conversation or interaction. Eye contact is often seen as an important aspect of communication, as it can convey a sense of confidence, trust, and honesty.
64 Across: “Goodness me” : LORDY
“Lordy” is an informal exclamation that expresses surprise, shock, or disbelief. It is a slang term that originated in the United States in the early 1900s and is still commonly used today. “Goodness me” is a similar phrase that is used to express surprise or amazement, particularly in a polite or mild way. Both phrases can be used interchangeably in certain situations.
65 Across: Korean short ribs : GALBI
Galbi, also known as Korean BBQ short ribs, is a popular dish in Korean cuisine. It is typically made by marinating beef or pork ribs in a mixture of soy sauce, garlic, sugar, sesame oil, and other spices, and then grilling or broiling the meat until it is tender and caramelized. The resulting dish is savory, sweet, and often served with rice, kimchi, and other side dishes.
66 Across: Sigur __: ethereal Icelandic band : ROS
Sigur Rós is an Icelandic post-rock band that was formed in Reykjavík in 1994. The band’s music is known for its ethereal and atmospheric soundscapes, often featuring complex instrumental arrangements, haunting vocals, and lyrics that are sung in a made-up language known as “Hopelandic.” Sigur Rós has gained a large following around the world and has released several critically acclaimed albums, including “Ágætis byrjun” and “Takk…”
67 Across: Perrier rival : EVIAN
Evian is a brand of bottled water that is sourced from a spring in the French Alps. The water is known for its purity and mineral content, and is marketed as a premium brand of mineral water. Perrier is another brand of mineral water that is sourced from a spring in the south of France. Both brands are popular around the world and are often used as a refreshing beverage or as a mixer in cocktails.
68 Across: Some big-box stores : IKEAS
IKEA is a Swedish multinational furniture retailer that is known for its affordable, self-assembly furniture and home accessories. The company operates a chain of big-box stores around the world, where customers can browse and purchase a wide variety of furniture, kitchenware, and home goods. IKEA is popular with consumers who are looking for stylish and functional furniture at a reasonable price, and the company has become a global leader in the home furnishings industry.
DOWN
1 Tools that make the cut? : SAWS
The clue refers to tools that are used to cut through various materials, such as wood or metal. The answer is SAWS, which are commonly used in construction, carpentry, and other related fields. There are many different types of saws, including hand saws, power saws, and specialized saws like jigsaws or scroll saws.
2 Hip-hop genre : TRAP
The clue refers to a subgenre of hip-hop music that originated in the Southern United States. The answer is TRAP, which is known for its heavy use of 808 drums, synthesizers, and other electronic instruments. The genre is often associated with themes of drug dealing, poverty, and street life.
3 Blues guitarist Baker : ETTA
The clue refers to a famous blues guitarist named Etta Baker, who was born in North Carolina in 1913 and died in 2006. She was known for her fingerstyle guitar playing and her contributions to the Piedmont blues tradition. Baker was also an accomplished songwriter and vocalist.
4 Sushi roll garnish : ROE
The clue refers to a common ingredient in sushi, which is a Japanese dish made with vinegared rice and various other ingredients. The answer is ROE, which is a general term for fish eggs or caviar. In sushi, roe is often used as a garnish on top of the rice or as a filling inside the roll.
5 Neither partner : NOR
The clue refers to a word that can be used to indicate that neither of two things is true or applicable. The answer is NOR, which is often used in the phrase “neither X nor Y.” For example, “I like neither coffee nor tea.”
6 Search all over : SCOUR
The clue refers to a verb meaning to search through something thoroughly in order to find something specific. The answer is SCOUR, which can be used to describe searching through physical spaces or digital ones. For example, you might scour your house for your lost keys, or you might scour the internet for information on a particular topic.
7 Instagram posting : PHOTO
The clue refers to a type of content that is commonly shared on Instagram, which is a social media platform that allows users to post photos and videos. The answer is PHOTO, which is short for photograph. Instagram is known for its focus on visual content, and many users use the platform to share photos of their daily lives, travels, and creative projects.
8 Canola __ : OIL
The clue refers to a type of cooking oil that is made from the seeds of the canola plant. The answer is OIL, which is an essential ingredient in many types of cooking, from frying to baking to salad dressing. Canola oil is known for its relatively neutral flavor and high smoke point, which makes it a popular choice for many types of cooking.
9 Opening number? : ONE
The clue refers to a word that can be used to indicate the first in a series or sequence. The answer is ONE, which is often used to describe the first item in a list, the first step in a process, or the first day of the month or year.
10 Edward of “Glass Onion” : NORTON
The clue refers to an actor named Edward Norton, who played the character of Derek Vinyard in the film “American History X.” The answer is NORTON, which is his last name. The clue also references the Beatles song “Glass Onion,” which includes the line “The walrus was Paul,” a reference to the popular conspiracy theory that Paul McCartney had died and been replaced by a lookalike.
11 Fast learner : QUICK STUDY
A quick study is a person who can easily learn and comprehend new material, often with little effort or practice. This term is commonly used in academic or work settings to describe someone who is able to rapidly assimilate new information.
12 Petro-Canada rival : ESSO
Esso is a brand of gasoline and other petroleum products that is sold in Canada and around the world. It is owned by ExxonMobil, which is one of the largest oil and gas companies in the world. Petro-Canada is another major Canadian oil company, and Esso is one of its main competitors.
13 Stops (up) : DAMS
A dam is a barrier that is built across a river or other waterway to control the flow of water. By stopping or slowing down the flow of water, dams can be used to generate hydroelectric power, prevent flooding, and provide irrigation for crops.
18 First Nations people of Canada : CREE
The Cree are a group of indigenous people who are native to Canada. They are one of the largest First Nations groups in Canada, and their traditional territory covers a vast area that includes parts of Ontario, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Alberta, and the Northwest Territories.
23 Pro : ACE
An ace is a term used in sports, particularly in tennis and golf, to describe a skilled player who is able to hit the ball with accuracy and power. In other contexts, the term can also be used to describe someone who is highly skilled or proficient in a particular area.
24 Bedtime story preceder, perhaps : BATH
Taking a bath is often part of a bedtime routine for children, and parents may read them a story before they go to sleep. The clue suggests that the word being sought is a word that might come before the word “story” in this context.
25 Baa nanas : EWES
Ewes are female sheep, and they are often used for their wool and for breeding. The clue plays on the similarity between the sound that sheep make (“baa”) and the word “bananas,” creating a playful and memorable association.
26 Utter disorder : CHAOS
Chaos is a state of complete disorder and confusion, where things are unpredictable and unstable. In science and mathematics, chaos theory refers to the study of complex and dynamic systems that are sensitive to small changes and can exhibit chaotic behavior.
27 Laze : LOLL
To loll is to relax or recline in a lazy or casual manner. The clue is a play on words, using “laze” (a synonym for “loll”) as a verb in the place of a noun.
28 “My name is __ Montoya. You killed my father … ” : INIGO
This is a quote from the movie “The Princess Bride,” spoken by the character Inigo Montoya. In the movie, Inigo seeks revenge against the six-fingered man who killed his father, and he delivers this line to the man when they finally meet.
29 Frightening ordeals : NIGHTMARES –
Nightmares are distressing and frightening dreams that can cause one to wake up feeling anxious, scared, or even terrified. They can be caused by a variety of factors, such as stress, anxiety, medications, or other medical conditions.
31 Where sailors go : TO SEA
Sailors go to sea to navigate and explore the vast oceans of the world. The sea can be unpredictable and dangerous, but it can also be beautiful and awe-inspiring. Sailors may work on a variety of vessels, from small fishing boats to large cargo ships.
32 Jewish social org. : YMHA
YMHA stands for Young Men’s Hebrew Association, a social organization that was founded in the late 19th century to provide cultural, educational, and athletic opportunities for Jewish young men.
33 “Hard pass” : UH-UH
“Uh-uh” is an informal way of saying “no” or “I don’t agree.” It can be used to express disagreement, disapproval, or reluctance to do something.
34 Mint variety used in Japanese cooking : SHISO
Shiso is a type of mint that is commonly used in Japanese cooking. It has a distinctive flavor that is often described as a combination of basil, mint, and anise. Shiso is used in a variety of dishes, including sushi, salads, and soups.
35 Skin care brand sold in colorful eggs : EOS
EOS is a skin care brand that is known for its lip balms and hand lotions. The brand is recognizable by its distinctive spherical packaging, which comes in a variety of bright colors.
38 Singer known as the “Goddess of Pop” : CHER
Cher is a legendary singer and actress who has been a prominent figure in the entertainment industry for over five decades. She has won multiple awards, including an Academy Award, a Grammy Award, and an Emmy Award.
39 “Seriously?” : C’MON
“C’mon” is a shortened version of “come on,” which is often used to express disbelief, frustration, or annoyance. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from expressing surprise at a ridiculous statement to urging someone to hurry up.
40 “Gosh darn it” : RATS
“Rats” is an informal expression that is often used to express disappointment, frustration, or mild anger. It can be used as a replacement for stronger swear words or as a way of expressing irritation without being too vulgar.
45 “Madam Secretary” actor Daly : TIM
Tim Daly is an American actor who is best known for his role as Henry McCord on the TV series “Madam Secretary.” He has also appeared in a variety of other TV shows and movies, including “Wings” and “The Sopranos.”
46 Melting point, maybe : ICICLE
An icicle is a long, pointed piece of ice that forms when water drips and freezes in cold weather. It hangs from the edges of roofs, trees, or other surfaces, and can sometimes grow very large. The melting point of an icicle refers to the temperature at which it will melt and turn back into liquid water.
47 Tablet download : GAME
This crossword clue refers to the act of downloading a game onto a tablet device, such as an iPad or Android tablet. Games are one of the most popular types of apps available for download, and there are thousands of them available in various genres, from puzzle games to action games to simulation games and more.
49 “Dead to Me” star Cardellini : LINDA
Linda Cardellini is an American actress who is best known for her roles in TV shows like “Freaks and Geeks,” “ER,” and “Bloodline,” as well as films like “Legally Blonde,” “Brokeback Mountain,” and “Avengers: Age of Ultron.” She stars in the Netflix series “Dead to Me” as Judy Hale, a free-spirited woman who becomes friends with a grieving widow.
50 Birth day doc : OB/GYN
OB/GYN stands for obstetrician-gynecologist, which is a medical specialist who deals with women’s reproductive health. An OB/GYN is trained to care for women during pregnancy, childbirth, and postpartum, as well as diagnose and treat a variety of other reproductive issues and conditions.
51 __ Eats : UBER
Uber Eats is a food delivery service that is part of the Uber company. It allows users to order food from local restaurants and have it delivered directly to their door by an Uber driver. The service is available in many cities around the world and has become increasingly popular in recent years.
52 Club condiment : MAYO
This crossword clue refers to the condiment mayonnaise, which is often used as a topping or spread for sandwiches or burgers. It is made from oil, egg yolks, vinegar or lemon juice, and seasonings, and can be flavored with a variety of herbs, spices, or other ingredients.
54 “The Great” actress Fanning : ELLE
Elle Fanning is an American actress who has appeared in many films and TV shows over the years. She is perhaps best known for her roles in movies like “Super 8,” “Maleficent,” and “The Neon Demon,” as well as the Hulu series “The Great,” in which she plays Catherine the Great.
55 “The Mandalorian” bounty hunter __ Fett : BOBA
Boba Fett is a character from the Star Wars universe who first appeared in the 1980 film “The Empire Strikes Back.” He is a bounty hunter who is hired by Darth Vader to track down Han Solo, and he later appears in the film “Return of the Jedi” as well. Boba Fett has become a fan favorite over the years and has appeared in many other Star Wars stories in various forms.
56 Jewish ritual : BRIS
A bris is a Jewish ritual circumcision ceremony that is performed on male infants when they are eight days old. It is considered a very important event in Jewish culture and is typically attended by family and friends of the baby and his parents.
59 __ lane : HOV
HOV stands for high-occupancy vehicle, which refers to a lane on a highway that is reserved for vehicles with more than one occupant, such as carpoolers or buses. HOV lanes are designed to encourage carpooling and reduce traffic congestion on busy roads.
60 NPR host Shapiro : ARI
Ari Shapiro is an American journalist and radio host who currently works for National Public Radio (NPR). He is one of the hosts of NPR’s “All Things Considered” program, which airs daily and covers news and current events from around the world. Shapiro has also worked as a correspondent for NPR in a variety of locations, including London and Moscow.
61 Sci-fi FX : CGI
CGI stands for computer-generated imagery, which is a type of visual effects technology used in movies and TV shows to create realistic, lifelike images and animations. CGI is often used in science fiction and fantasy films to create otherworldly creatures, landscapes, and special effects that would be difficult or impossible to achieve with practical effects alone.
62 Wine tasting note : OAK
Oak is a flavor note that is commonly associated with wine, especially red wines that have been aged in oak barrels. Oak barrels can impart a variety of flavors and aromas to wine, including vanilla, caramel, and spices. Some wine drinkers prefer wines with a strong oak flavor, while others prefer wines that have been aged in stainless steel or other non-oak containers to preserve the fruit flavors of the wine.
