Here is the complete list of clues and answers for the Thursday April 20th 2023, LA Times crossword puzzle.
ACROSS
1 Book that presents world views? : ATLAS
The answer to this crossword clue is “ATLAS”. An atlas is a book that presents world maps and other geographical information. It can also include information on political boundaries, climate, topography, population, and more. Atlases are often used as reference books by students, researchers, and geographers to gain a better understanding of the world.
6 Plus-one, say : GUEST
The answer to this crossword clue is “GUEST”. A “plus-one” is a term used to refer to an additional person who is invited to an event, such as a wedding, dinner party, or other social gathering. The “plus-one” is usually the guest’s romantic partner, friend, or family member.
11 Mo. town : STL
The answer to this crossword clue is “STL”. This is an abbreviation for “St. Louis”, which is a city located in the state of Missouri, United States. St. Louis is known for its iconic Gateway Arch, which stands at 630 feet tall and is a symbol of the city’s role as the “Gateway to the West”.
14 Finned predator : SHARK
The answer to this crossword clue is “SHARK”. Sharks are a type of fish with a distinct set of characteristics, such as their cartilaginous skeletons, streamlined bodies, and multiple rows of sharp teeth. They are known for being fierce predators, and are found in oceans all over the world. Some of the most common species of sharks include the great white shark, hammerhead shark, and tiger shark.
15 Spicy Korean cabbage : KIMCHI
The answer to this crossword clue is “KIMCHI”. Kimchi is a traditional Korean dish made from fermented cabbage and various seasonings, such as chili peppers, garlic, ginger, and scallions. It is often served as a side dish or used as an ingredient in other Korean dishes. Kimchi is known for its spicy and sour flavor, as well as its health benefits due to its probiotic content.
16 “I’ve got it!” : AHA
The answer to this crossword clue is “AHA”. This is an exclamation that is often used to indicate a sudden realization or discovery. It is often used in response to a question or problem, indicating that the speaker has found the solution or answer.
17 Double bond? : PROMISES PROMISES
The answer to this crossword clue is “PROMISES PROMISES”. This is a phrase that can be used to indicate that someone has made a promise, or that they are being asked to make a promise. In the context of the crossword clue, the “double bond” may refer to the repeated use of the word “promise” in the phrase. Alternatively, it could be a play on words, as a “bond” can refer to a promise or agreement between two parties.
20 Shady, in gamer lingo : SUS
“SUS” is short for “suspicious” and is commonly used in online gaming communities to describe a player who is acting in a suspicious or untrustworthy manner. It can also be used as a noun, as in “That player is giving off major sus vibes.”
21 Novelist Deighton : LEN
Len Deighton is a British author known for his spy novels, including “The IPCRESS File” and “Funeral in Berlin.” He was also a journalist and worked as an illustrator before becoming a full-time writer.
22 Early Canon autofocus camera : SURE SHOT
The Canon Sure Shot was a popular series of autofocus 35mm film cameras produced by Canon from the mid-1980s to the early 2000s. The first model in the series, the AF35M, was introduced in 1979 and was one of the first compact cameras to feature autofocus technology.
23 Cutting edge : BLADE
A blade is a sharp-edged tool or weapon, such as a knife or sword. The term “cutting edge” is often used figuratively to refer to something that is innovative or at the forefront of a particular field or industry.
25 Numeric prefix : TRI-
The prefix “tri-” means “three” and is commonly used in English to indicate a quantity or amount that is three times a base value. For example, a tricycle has three wheels, and a triangle has three sides.
26 Double check? : TESTING TESTING
“Testing testing” is a phrase commonly used by performers or sound technicians to check that a microphone or other audio equipment is working properly. By saying “testing testing” into the microphone and listening for the amplified sound, they can make sure that the equipment is picking up their voice and producing sound at the appropriate level.
32 Creates a lot of drama? : EMOTES
In online gaming and other forms of digital communication, “emotes” are small images or animations that are used to convey emotions or reactions. They are often used in chat rooms or on social media to express a particular feeling or response to something that has been said or posted. To “emote” means to use these images or animations to express oneself, often in an exaggerated or dramatic way.
34 “Double Indemnity” novelist : CAIN
Answer: James M. Cain was an American author and journalist, best known for his crime novels, including “The Postman Always Rings Twice” and “Double Indemnity.”
35 “What __ care?” : DO I
Answer: This is a common phrase used to express indifference or lack of concern about a particular issue. For example, “What do I care if he’s late?”
36 Splash against gently : LAP AT
Answer: “Lap at” means to wash or splash against something gently, usually with a light, repetitive motion. For example, the waves may “lap at” the shore.
37 __ Whip: frozen pineapple treat : DOLE
Answer: Dole Whip is a popular frozen pineapple treat that was first introduced at Disneyland in the 1980s. It is now available at many other Disney theme parks and other locations.
38 Lofty living spaces? : BARNS
Answer: This is a play on words, as “lofty” can mean both “high up” and “impressive or grand.” “Barns” are usually associated with agriculture and livestock, but some people have converted them into spacious and unique living spaces.
40 __ Lanka : SRI
Answer: Sri Lanka is an island country located in South Asia, known for its rich history, beautiful landscapes, and cultural heritage.
41 Explorer with a talking backpack : DORA
Answer: Dora the Explorer is a popular children’s television series that features a young girl named Dora who goes on adventures with her talking backpack and monkey friend, Boots. The show is known for teaching basic Spanish vocabulary and problem-solving skills to young viewers.
42 “O churl, drunk all, and left no friendly drop / To help me after!” speaker : JULIET
This is a quote from William Shakespeare’s play “Romeo and Juliet.” Juliet speaks these lines in Act 5, Scene 3 after waking up from a deep sleep to find Romeo dead beside her. She discovers that there is no poison left in the vial that Romeo used to kill himself, and so she takes his dagger and stabs herself. These lines express her frustration with Romeo for using all of the poison, leaving nothing for her to use to join him in death.
43 Double fault? : EXCUSES EXCUSES
This is a play on words, as “double fault” is a term used in tennis to describe a situation where a player makes two consecutive faults on their serve, resulting in the loss of a point. In this crossword clue, “Double fault?” is being used figuratively to refer to someone who is making excuses for their actions or behavior. The answer “EXCUSES EXCUSES” emphasizes this point, as it suggests that the person is not only making one excuse, but multiple excuses to try and justify their actions.
47 Lil Wayne’s “__ Block Is Hot” : THA
This is a reference to the title of a song by the American rapper Lil Wayne, which was released in 1999. The full title of the song is “Tha Block Is Hot,” and it was the lead single from Lil Wayne’s debut studio album of the same name. The song was a commercial success and helped to establish Lil Wayne as a rising star in the hip-hop industry.
48 Gridiron units : YARDS
In American football, the field is divided into 100 yards, with each yard marked by a line across the field. The game is played by advancing the ball down the field in increments of 10 yards at a time. Therefore, “Gridiron units” refers to the yards on the football field, and the answer to this crossword clue is “YARDS.”
49 Challenged, as a verdict : APPEALED
When a person is found guilty of a crime in a court of law, they may have the option to appeal the verdict if they believe that there were errors or mistakes made during the trial that led to an unfair outcome. In this crossword clue, “Challenged, as a verdict” refers to the act of appealing a guilty verdict, and the answer is “APPEALED.”
54 Emmy-winning sportscaster Buck : JOE
This is a reference to Joe Buck, an American sportscaster who has been the lead play-by-play announcer for Fox Sports’ coverage of the National Football League (NFL) since 2002. Buck has won numerous awards for his work, including several Emmy Awards for Outstanding Sports Personality – Play-by-Play.
55 Dish with yellow or red lentils : DAL
“DAL” is a term used in Indian cuisine to describe a type of dish made with lentils. The lentils can be yellow, red, or a combination of both, and are typically cooked with spices and served over rice or with bread. “DAL” is also sometimes spelled “daal” or “dahl” and is a staple food in many parts of South Asia.
58 Double jump? : SURPRISE SURPRISE
This is another play on words. In this case, “double jump” could refer to a move in a game like checkers or chess, where a piece jumps over two other pieces in one move. However, in the context of the crossword clue, “Double jump?” is being used figuratively to suggest that there is a surprise or unexpected twist involved. The answer to this clue, “SURPRISE SURPRISE,” reinforces this idea, as it suggests that the answer is something unexpected.
61 Anger : IRE
“IRE” is a noun that means intense anger or rage. This word is often used in formal or literary contexts, and can refer to a strong feeling of displeasure or hostility towards someone or something. For example, if someone is “full of ire,” it means they are very angry or upset about something.
62 Many a “Grey’s Anatomy” character : INTERN
“Grey’s Anatomy” is a popular American medical drama television series that first aired in 2005. The show follows the personal and professional lives of a group of doctors at a fictional hospital in Seattle, Washington. “INTERN” is a term used to describe medical students or recent graduates who are in their first year of residency training. In the context of the show, many of the characters are interns who are learning the ropes of medicine and navigating the complex relationships that develop within the hospital.
63 Indian, for one : OCEAN
This is another play on words. The word “Indian” could be used to describe a person from India or a Native American, among other meanings. However, in this crossword clue, “Indian, for one” is being used to suggest a connection to the Indian Ocean. The Indian Ocean is the third-largest ocean in the world and is located between Africa, Asia, Australia, and the Indian subcontinent.
64 Cook in oil : FRY
To “FRY” something means to cook it in hot oil or fat until it is browned and crispy. This cooking method is commonly used for foods like French fries, chicken, and fish, and can be done using a variety of techniques, including deep-frying, pan-frying, and stir-frying.
65 Market where an amphora may be found : AGORA
In ancient Greece, an “AGORA” was a public gathering place or marketplace where people could come together to buy and sell goods, exchange ideas, and socialize. The agora was a central part of Greek life and culture, and many important events, including political debates and athletic contests, took place there. An “amphora” is a type of Greek vessel or container that was used to store and transport liquids like wine or olive oil. These containers were often decorated with intricate designs or painted scenes, and are now prized by collectors and historians as important artifacts of ancient Greek culture.
66 __ Bay Rays : TAMPA
The “Tampa Bay Rays” are a professional baseball team based in St. Petersburg, Florida. The team was founded in 1998 and has since become a competitive force in Major League Baseball. The name “Tampa Bay” refers to the body of water that lies between Tampa and St. Petersburg, which is a major hub for tourism and commerce in the region.
DOWN
1 Nile vipers: ASPS
The Nile viper, also known as the Egyptian cobra, is a venomous snake native to Africa. As the name suggests, it is commonly found in the Nile River region and other areas of North Africa. The snake is known for its distinctive hood, which it can spread out when threatened, and for its potent venom, which can be lethal to humans.
2 Drive-__: THRU
Drive-thru is a term used to describe a type of service that allows customers to make purchases without leaving their vehicles. This type of service is commonly used by fast-food restaurants, coffee shops, and banks, among other businesses. In a drive-thru, customers typically place their orders through a speaker system and then drive up to a window to receive their purchases.
3 Landlocked country on the Mekong: LAOS
Laos is a small landlocked country located in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by Thailand to the west, Vietnam to the east, Cambodia to the south, and Myanmar and China to the north. The Mekong River, which is one of the longest rivers in Asia, flows through the country and plays an important role in its economy and culture.
4 Pitcher’s asset: ARM
In baseball, a pitcher’s “ARM” is one of their most valuable assets. The pitcher’s arm strength, accuracy, and control are all critical factors in their ability to throw strikes and keep opposing batters off balance. A pitcher’s arm is also subject to a lot of wear and tear, which means that maintaining good arm health is crucial to their success over the course of a long season.
5 All one can do: SKILL SET
A “SKILL SET” is a term used to describe the combination of skills, knowledge, and abilities that a person possesses. It can refer to a broad range of skills, including technical skills, interpersonal skills, and problem-solving skills, among others. In the context of this crossword clue, “all one can do” suggests that a person’s skill set is the sum total of what they are capable of doing.
6 Base figs.: GIS
“GIS” stands for Geographic Information System, which is a type of software system used to collect, store, and analyze geographic data. GIS is commonly used in fields like urban planning, environmental management, and natural resource management, among others. In the context of this crossword clue, “Base figs.” is likely a reference to the use of GIS in military applications, where it is often used to create maps and other geospatial information for use in strategic planning and decision-making.
7 Strike callers: UMPS
In baseball, “UMPS” is short for umpires, who are responsible for enforcing the rules of the game and making calls on balls and strikes, safe and out calls, and other decisions. Umpires are typically positioned behind the plate (home plate umpire) or on the field (base umpires) and use a series of hand signals and calls to communicate their decisions to players and coaches.
8 Linen color: ECRU
“ECRU” is a light beige or grayish-yellow color that is commonly associated with linen fabrics. The word “ecru” comes from the French word for “raw” or “unbleached,” which reflects the natural, unbleached color of many linen fibers. Ecru is a popular color in fashion and interior design, where it is often used as a neutral or understated accent.
9 Cut: SHORTEN
“SHORTEN” is a verb that means to make something shorter or reduce its length. This can refer to physical objects, like a piece of fabric or a rope, or to more abstract things, like a speech or a story. In the context of this crossword clue, “cut” is likely being used as a synonym for “shorten,” emphasizing the idea of reducing something’s length.
10 Speed chess equipment: TIMERS
In speed chess, players use “TIMERS” to keep track of their moves and ensure that they stay within the allotted time limits for each game. A chess timer typically consists of two digital clocks that are linked together and programmed to count down the time for each player. When a player makes a move, they hit a button on their side of the timer to stop their clock and start their opponent’s clock, signaling that it is their turn to move.
11 Merit badge holder: SASH
In scouting organizations like the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts, “SASH” is a type of garment worn over the shoulder that is used to display merit badges and other awards earned by a scout. The sash is typically made of a durable fabric like canvas or polyester and features rows of small pockets or loops where badges can be attached. Scouts wear their sashes to ceremonies and other events to showcase their achievements and demonstrate their commitment to the scouting values.
12 __ James of “The White Lotus”: THEO
“Theo James” is a British actor who is best known for his roles in TV series like “Downton Abbey” and “Sanditon,” as well as the “Divergent” movie series. In 2021, he starred as “THEO” in the HBO series “The White Lotus,” which follows the guests and staff of a luxury resort in Hawaii over the course of a week.
13 Have legs: LAST
In colloquial English, “having legs” is a phrase that means something is able to continue or persist over time. This can refer to a wide range of things, from a rumor or story that continues to circulate long after it first appeared, to a product or idea that remains popular or influential for years. In the context of this crossword clue, “last” is likely being used as a synonym for “have legs,” emphasizing the idea of something enduring or persisting.
15 “Antiracist Baby” author Ibram X. __: KENDI
“Ibram X. Kendi” is an American author and historian who is best known for his work on race and racism in America. He is the author of several books, including “Stamped from the Beginning: The Definitive History of Racist Ideas in America” and “How to Be an Antiracist,” as well as the children’s book “Antiracist Baby,” which is aimed at helping young children understand and engage with issues of race and equity. In the context of this crossword clue, “Kendi” is the author’s last name.
18 Parking spots? : SEATS
In this crossword clue, “SEATS” is a playful and slightly cryptic way of referring to the seats in a theater or stadium, which are often referred to as “parking spots” for the spectators. The clue is designed to be a bit misleading, as it may initially lead solvers to think about actual parking spots for cars, rather than the seats where people sit to watch a performance or game.
19 “Really, though?” : IS IT
“IS IT” is an expression that is used to express surprise, skepticism, or disbelief. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from responding to an unexpected piece of news or information to questioning the validity of a claim or statement. In the context of this crossword clue, “Really, though?” is likely being used as a synonym for “Is it,” emphasizing the idea of questioning the truth or veracity of something.
23 __ carotene : BETA
“BETA carotene” is a type of carotenoid, which is a natural pigment that is found in many fruits and vegetables. Beta-carotene is particularly abundant in orange and yellow foods like carrots, sweet potatoes, and squash, and is also found in leafy greens and other vegetables. In the body, beta-carotene is converted into vitamin A, which is important for vision, immune function, and overall health.
24 Request that rhymes with “One more!” : ENCORE
“ENCORE” is a French word that is used to request an additional performance or appearance by a performer or artist. In the context of a concert or live event, audience members may call out “ENCORE” after a particularly well-received performance, indicating that they would like to hear more from the performer. The clue is designed to be a bit playful, as “ENCORE” rhymes with “One more!” and is often used in a similar context of asking for more of something.
26 Debate issue : TOPIC
In a debate or discussion, a “TOPIC” is the subject or issue that is being discussed or argued. Topics can range from broad and general (like “climate change” or “education reform”) to more specific and focused (like “the use of technology in the classroom” or “the impact of deforestation on local ecosystems”). In the context of this crossword clue, “debate issue” is being used as a synonym for “topic,” emphasizing the idea of a subject or question that is open to discussion or debate.
27 Andromeda, e.g. : GALAXY
In astronomy, a “GALAXY” is a large system of stars, gas, and dust that is held together by gravity. The Milky Way is a type of spiral galaxy that contains billions of stars, while other types of galaxies include elliptical galaxies (which are more round or oval-shaped) and irregular galaxies (which have no defined shape or structure). “Andromeda” is the name of a spiral galaxy that is located about 2.5 million light years from Earth, and is one of the closest galaxies to our own Milky Way.
28 Connection : TIE
A “TIE” can refer to a few different things, depending on the context. In the context of this crossword clue, “connection” is being used as a synonym for “tie,” emphasizing the idea of a relationship or link between two or more things. A tie can also refer to a necktie, which is a long piece of cloth that is worn around the neck, typically by men as part of formal or professional attire.
29 “Cats” star Elba : IDRIS
Idris Elba is a British actor, producer, and musician who is best known for his roles in film and television, including the HBO series “The Wire,” the Marvel Cinematic Universe films, and the movie “Cats,” in which he played the character of Macavity. Elba has received numerous awards and nominations for his work, including several Screen Actors Guild Awards and a Golden Globe Award.
30 Squat : NONE
In the context of this crossword clue, “NONE” is being used as a playful and slightly cryptic way of indicating that there is no answer or solution to the clue. “Squat” can refer to a type of exercise that involves lowering the body into a crouching position and then standing back up, but in this case, it appears that there is no connection between “squat” and “none” that would lead to a valid answer or solution.
31 Main idea : GIST
The “GIST” of something is the main or essential idea or point. It can refer to the core message or meaning of a text, speech, or conversation, and is often used as a synonym for “essence,” “summary,” or “crux.” In the context of this crossword clue, “main idea” is being used as a synonym for “gist,” emphasizing the idea of a central or essential concept or message.
32 Alternatively : ELSE
“ELSE” is a word that is used to indicate an alternative or additional option. It can be used in a variety of contexts, from indicating a different choice or possibility to introducing a new idea or topic. In the context of this crossword clue, “alternatively” is being used as a synonym for “else,” emphasizing the idea of an alternative or different option or possibility.
33 Brothers known for “Duck Soup” and “Animal Crackers” : MARX
The Marx Brothers were a family comedy team that consisted of five brothers (Groucho, Harpo, Chico, Zeppo, and Gummo) who appeared in a series of popular films in the 1920s and 1930s. They were known for their irreverent and absurd humor, as well as their distinctive personalities and costumes. “Duck Soup” and “Animal Crackers” are two of their most famous films, and continue to be celebrated as classics of American cinema.
37 Hairstyles : DOS
In the context of this crossword clue, “DOS” is being used as a playful and slightly outdated abbreviation for “hairstyles.” The term “DO” was a popular slang term for hairstyles in the 1960s and 1970s, and has since fallen out of common use. In this case, “DOS” is being used as a nod to the retro or nostalgic quality of the clue.
38 Where to hang on the line? : BUS DEPOT
In this crossword clue, “BUS DEPOT” is a playful and slightly cryptic way of referring to a place where buses are parked or stored. The phrase “hang on the line” typically refers to waiting or being put on hold during a phone call, but in this case, it appears to be a pun on the idea of hanging or parking a bus. The clue is designed
39 Some craft beers : ALES
This clue refers to a type of beer that is brewed using a warm fermentation method with a type of yeast called Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Ales have a distinct flavor that comes from the use of malted barley, hops, and yeast during the brewing process.
41 Handing out, as cards : DEALING
In card games, dealing refers to the distribution of cards to the players. The dealer is responsible for shuffling the deck and then distributing the cards one by one to each player, often in a clockwise direction.
42 Judgmental type? : JUROR
This clue refers to a person who serves on a jury in a court of law. Jurors are responsible for listening to the evidence presented in a case and then making a judgment based on the facts presented. They are often referred to as “judgmental” because of the important role they play in determining the outcome of a trial.
44 Southwest sch. with architecture inspired by Bhutan : UTEP
UTEP stands for the University of Texas at El Paso, a public research university located in El Paso, Texas. The university’s unique architecture is inspired by the Himalayan kingdom of Bhutan, and features a mix of modern and traditional Bhutanese design elements.
45 Islamic law : SHARIA
Sharia is the religious law of Islam, which governs many aspects of daily life for Muslims. It is based on the teachings of the Quran and the Hadith, and covers a wide range of topics including religious practices, moral conduct, family law, and criminal law.
46 Louisiana cuisine : CAJUN
Cajun cuisine is a style of cooking that originated in Louisiana, particularly among the French-speaking Acadian people. It is known for its spicy and flavorful dishes, often featuring seafood, rice, and vegetables, as well as traditional Cajun seasonings like cayenne pepper, garlic, and paprika.
49 “Ew! No!” : AS IF
This phrase is commonly used to express disbelief or disgust in response to something that has been said or suggested. It became popularized in the 1995 movie “Clueless,” where the character Cher Horowitz used it frequently.
50 Sound of a happy tabby : PURR
A purr is a low, vibrating sound that is made by cats when they are content or happy. It is produced by the rapid movement of the cat’s larynx and diaphragm muscles, and can also occur when a cat is nervous or in pain.
51 Seals, to a 14-Across : PREY
This clue is a reference to the answer for 14-Across, which is “Predator”. Seals are often hunted by larger animals, such as sharks or killer whales, which are considered predators in the animal kingdom.
52 Spanish “this” : ESTO
“Esto” is a Spanish demonstrative pronoun that means “this” in English. It is used to refer to a specific object or thing that is close to the speaker.
53 Stag or doe : DEER
Deer are a family of ruminant mammals that are found all over the world. They are known for their long legs, graceful movements, and distinctive antlers, which are typically only found on male deer (stags).
55 Latin day : DIEM
“Diem” is the accusative singular form of the Latin word “dies,” which means “day” in English. The phrase “carpe diem” is often translated as “seize the day,” and encourages people to make the most of each day and not to waste time.
56 “Right away” letters : ASAP
ASAP is an acronym that stands for “as soon as possible”. It is often used in business, military, or other professional contexts to indicate that a task or assignment should be completed quickly.
57 Singer Horne : LENA
Lena Horne was an American singer, actress, and civil rights activist who gained fame in the 1940s and 1950s for her powerful voice and striking beauty. She was one of the first black performers to break through Hollywood’s color barrier and become a major star.
59 Mme., in Mallorca : SRA
“Sra.” is an abbreviation of “señora,” which is the Spanish word for “Mrs.” It is used as a title of respect for a married woman.
60 Early TV brand : RCA
RCA (Radio Corporation of America) was an American electronics company that was one of the pioneers of television broadcasting in the United States. It was founded in 1919 and became a major player in the television industry in the 1940s and 1950s, producing some of the first commercially available television sets.
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