Here is the complete list of clues and answers for the Friday April 21st 2023, LA Times crossword puzzle.
ACROSS
1 Taylor-Joy of “The Menu” : ANYA
This clue is asking for the name of an actress who starred in a television series or movie called “The Menu.” The answer is Anya Taylor-Joy, a popular actress known for her roles in “The Queen’s Gambit,” “Emma,” and “Split.”
5 Unimpressed : BLASE
This clue is looking for a word that means “uninterested” or “unimpressed.” The answer is “blase,” which describes a feeling of boredom or indifference to something that may be considered exciting or interesting.
10 “Terrif!” : FAB
This clue is asking for a shortened version of a word that means “fantastic” or “great.” The answer is “fab,” which is a casual and informal way to express enthusiasm or approval.
13 Shows the way : LEADS
This clue is asking for a word that means “to guide” or “to direct.” The answer is “leads,” which can be used in a variety of contexts, such as leading a group of people or leading someone to a particular destination.
15 Wee bits : IOTAS
This clue is asking for a word that means “small amounts” or “tiny pieces.” The answer is “iotas,” which is a Greek letter that is often used in English to refer to something very small or insignificant.
16 “Odds __ … ” : ARE
This clue is asking for the completion of a phrase that typically means “the chances of something happening are…” The answer is “are,” which is the verb that completes the phrase “odds are.”
17 Feles inquisitae? : POLLING CATS
This clue is a play on words, using a Latin phrase to create a pun. “Feles inquisitae” is Latin for “curious cat,” and “polling cats” sounds like “polling booths.” The answer is “polling cats,” which is a humorous way to refer to a situation where cats are being surveyed or questioned.
19 Work of fiction? : LIE
This crossword clue is a play on words, as a “work of fiction” typically refers to a novel, short story, or other literary creation. However, in this case, the answer is “LIE,” which is also a work of fiction in the sense that it is a deliberate falsehood or fabrication.
20 Connected, in a way : ONLINE
This crossword clue refers to the idea of being “connected” to the internet or other computer networks. When someone is “online,” they are using a device that is connected to the internet and can communicate with other devices or access online resources.
21 Radio host Shapiro who wrote “The Best Strangers in the World” : ARI
This crossword clue refers to the conservative political commentator Ben Shapiro, who hosts a popular radio talk show and has written several books. “The Best Strangers in the World” is one of his published works.
22 One side on “The Americans,” initially : USSR
This crossword clue is a reference to the Cold War-era television drama “The Americans,” which is set during the 1980s and follows the lives of two Soviet KGB agents posing as a married couple in the United States. The answer is “USSR,” which stands for the Union of Soviet Socialist Republics, the communist state that was the main adversary of the United States during the Cold War.
23 Apes ineptae? : BUMBLING BEES
This crossword clue is a bit more difficult, as it is a play on words in Latin. “Apes ineptae” translates to “inept bees,” but the answer is actually “BUMBLING BEES,” which is a synonym for “inept” and also refers to the idea of bees that are clumsy or awkward.
26 Taxi : CAB
This crossword clue is a simple one, as “taxi” and “cab” are two words that are often used interchangeably to refer to a vehicle that is used to transport passengers for hire.
29 Blue area on a map : SEA
This crossword clue is straightforward, as “SEA” is a common term used to refer to large bodies of saltwater that are typically depicted in blue on maps and other geographic representations.
30 Guitar great Paul : LES
This crossword clue refers to Les Paul, a legendary guitarist and inventor of the solid-body electric guitar. Paul was a pioneer in the development of modern music technology, and his contributions to the guitar world have had a lasting impact.
31 “Welp,” quaintly : ALAS
This crossword clue is a bit of a play on words. “Welp” is a colloquialism that’s often used to express disappointment or resignation, and “quaintly” suggests that the answer to the clue is an old-fashioned equivalent. “Alas” fits the bill – it’s a word that’s been in use for hundreds of years to express sorrow or regret.
33 Solidified : SET
This crossword clue is a bit more straightforward. “Solidified” is a synonym for “set,” which can mean to become firm or fixed in place. In the context of cooking or baking, “set” can also refer to the process of cooling or refrigerating a dish so that it becomes firm.
35 Ventricle’s outlet : AORTA
This crossword clue is a bit more technical. The ventricle is a part of the heart, and the aorta is the largest artery in the body. In the context of the heart, the aorta is the outlet for the left ventricle – it carries oxygenated blood from the heart to the rest of the body.
37 Ursi dividi? : POLARIZING BEARS
This crossword clue is a bit of a pun. “Ursi” is the Latin word for bears, and “dividi” is the Latin word for divide. So the clue is asking you to divide “ursi” in some way. The answer, “polarizing bears,” is a play on the word “polar bears,” which are a type of bear that live in the Arctic.
41 “Is That Black Enough for You?!?” documentarian Mitchell : ELVIS
This crossword clue refers to Yvonne Smith Mitchell, a documentary filmmaker who directed the film “Is That Black Enough for You?!?” The film explores issues of racial identity and representation in popular culture. The clue’s reference to “Elvis” is a bit of a misdirect – Elvis Presley is not actually involved in the film.
42 “As __ usual” : PER
This crossword clue is a bit incomplete – it’s missing the word that comes after “as.” The most common phrase that would fit the bill is “as per usual,” which means “as usual” or “as expected.” The word “per” is often used in legal or bureaucratic contexts to mean “according to” or “in accordance with.”
43 Water fall? : DRIP
This crossword clue is a bit of a play on words. “Water fall” could be interpreted as a literal waterfall or cascade of water, but in this case, it’s referring to a small, steady flow of water – a “drip.” In common usage, “drip” can also refer to a slow leak or a person who is uncool or unimpressive.
44 Drone regulator: Abbr. : FAA
This crossword clue is a bit more straightforward. “Drone” in this context likely refers to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or “drones” that are used for various purposes. The FAA, or Federal Aviation Administration, is the regulatory agency responsible for overseeing the safety of civil aviation in the United States, including drones.
45 Pt. of IRA : RET
This crossword clue is a bit of an abbreviation puzzle. “IRA” typically stands for Individual Retirement Account, which is a type of savings account that offers tax advantages for retirement savings. “Pt.” is short for “part,” so the answer to the clue is “ret,” which is short for “retirement.”
47 Bagged leaves? : TEA
This crossword clue is a bit of a pun. “Bagged” could refer to leaves that have been put into bags, but in this case, it’s referring to tea leaves that have been packaged in tea bags. When steeped in hot water, the tea bags release the flavor and color of the tea leaves, creating a hot beverage.
48 Cervi dominati? : REIGNING DEER
This crossword clue is another pun. “Cervi” is the Latin word for deer, and “dominati” means “ruled” or “dominated.” The answer to the clue, “reigning deer,” is a play on the phrase “reigning champion,” which refers to the current title holder in a competition or sport.
54 Fencing event : EPEE
This crossword clue is a bit more straightforward. Fencing is a sport in which competitors use bladed weapons to score points against each other. An epee is one of the three primary weapons used in fencing, along with the foil and the sabre. The epee is characterized by its large guard and flexible blade.
55 __ tai : MAI
This crossword clue is a bit of a word association puzzle. “Tai” is likely a reference to the cocktail Mai Tai, which is a rum-based drink that originated in California in the 1940s. The answer to the clue is “mai,” which is the first part of the name of the cocktail.
56 56 Pool unit : ONE LAP
This crossword clue is referring to a unit of measurement in swimming pools. “Lap” is a term used to describe one complete length of a swimming pool. In competitive swimming, races are often measured in laps, with swimmers completing multiple laps to reach the race’s designated distance. The answer to the clue is “one lap,” indicating a single length of the pool.
60 Silly string? : LOL
This crossword clue is a bit of a play on words. “Silly string” is a type of colorful, string-like material that is often used for party decorations or pranks. “LOL” is an abbreviation commonly used in texting and online communication to indicate laughter. The answer to the clue is “LOL,” which is itself a playful and lighthearted term.
61 Porci circumspecti? : HEDGING HOGS
This crossword clue is another play on words. “Porci” is the Latin word for “pigs,” and “circumspecti” means “cautious” or “careful.” The answer to the clue, “hedging hogs,” is a play on the term “hedgehog,” which is a small, spiny mammal known for rolling up into a tight ball as a defense mechanism. The term “hedging” can also refer to the practice of mitigating risk or uncertainty by making strategic investments or taking other measures to protect oneself from potential losses.
63 Insert : ADD
This crossword clue is relatively straightforward. “Insert” is a term that can refer to adding something into a larger whole or a space. “Add” is a synonym of “insert,” meaning to put something new into an existing system or structure.
64 Posts : MAILS
This crossword clue is a bit of a word association puzzle. “Posts” can refer to a variety of things, including social media posts, blog posts, or physical posts used for support or marking boundaries. In this case, the answer to the clue is “mails,” which is a similar term that refers specifically to letters or packages sent through the postal system.
65 Retreats in the desert : OASES
This crossword clue refers to a feature found in arid or desert regions: an oasis. An oasis is a fertile area in a desert that has water and plant life. It can be a critical source of water and resources for animals and people traveling through the desert. The plural form of “oasis” is “oases,” which is the answer to this clue.
66 “Are you solving a crossword right now?” answer : YES
This crossword clue is a playful nod to the fact that the solver is currently engaged in solving a crossword puzzle. The answer to the clue is simply “yes,” which confirms that the solver is indeed working on a crossword at the moment.
67 Gastropod for gastronomes : SNAIL
This crossword clue is a bit of a play on words. “Gastropod” is a scientific term that refers to a type of mollusk that includes snails and slugs. “Gastronomes” are people who are knowledgeable or passionate about food and cooking. The answer to the clue is “snail,” which is a type of gastropod that is sometimes used in gourmet cuisine.
68 Word in many award category names : BEST
This crossword clue refers to a common word found in award category names. Many different awards, from the Oscars to the Nobel Prize, have categories that are designated by the word “best.” For example, there might be an award for “best actor,” “best picture,” or “best scientific discovery.” The answer to the clue is simply “best,” which is a versatile and ubiquitous term in the world of awards and recognition.
DOWN
1 Chewy brand : ALPO
This crossword clue refers to a brand of dog food called ALPO. The brand was founded in 1936 and is currently owned by Nestlé Purina PetCare. The name “ALPO” is short for “Allentown Products,” as the company was originally based in Allentown, Pennsylvania.
2 Super bright : NEON
This crossword clue is referring to the chemical element neon, which is a gas that is commonly used in electric signs and lighting. When an electric current is passed through a tube filled with neon gas, it emits a bright, colorful glow. This effect is used in many commercial signs, particularly in urban areas at night.
3 Southern party : Y’ALL
This crossword clue is a playful nod to a common Southern colloquialism. “Y’all” is a contraction of “you all” and is used as a plural form of “you.” In the Southern United States, it is a common greeting or way of addressing a group of people. The term has become somewhat iconic as a symbol of Southern culture and hospitality.
4 Off the cuff : AD-LIB
This crossword clue refers to a term used in theater and improvisation. “Ad-lib” is short for “ad libitum,” which is a Latin term that means “at one’s pleasure” or “as one desires.” In theater, an ad-lib is an improvised line or action that is not part of the script. When someone is said to be “off the cuff,” it means they are improvising or speaking spontaneously, like an ad-lib.
5 Popular : BIG
This crossword clue is a bit of a word association puzzle. “Popular” can mean a variety of things, but one common definition is “well-liked” or “frequently chosen or used.” In this case, the answer to the clue is “big,” which is a synonym of “popular” in some contexts. For example, a big-name celebrity or a big-budget movie might be considered “popular.”
6 One who’s likely rooting for the home team : LOCAL
This crossword clue is relatively straightforward. “Local” is a term that can refer to someone or something that is native or belonging to a particular place or region. In the context of sports, a “local” is someone who supports the home team or has a strong connection to the local community. For example, a “local fan” might be someone who grew up in the area and has been following the team for years.
7 Single-button joystick creator : ATARI
This crossword clue refers to a company that was a pioneer in the video game industry. Atari was founded in 1972 and is credited with creating the first successful home video game console, the Atari 2600. The company’s games and consoles were iconic in the 1980s and helped to establish video games as a mainstream form of entertainment. The “single-button joystick” referenced in the clue is a signature feature of many Atari games and consoles.
8 Pointe shoe material : SATIN
This crossword clue refers to a type of fabric that is commonly used in ballet shoes, particularly pointe shoes. Satin is a shiny, smooth fabric that is often made from silk or synthetic fibers. In ballet, the satin material is used for the exterior of the shoe, while the inside is made from a combination of leather and other materials to provide support and cushioning.
9 One of a Mississippi quartet : ESS
This crossword clue is a bit of a wordplay puzzle. “Mississippi quartet” is a reference to the four “S” letters in the name “Mississippi.” The clue is asking for one of these letters, which is represented by the letter “ess.” This letter is also commonly used in words like “success” and “stress.”
10 Early misstep : FALSE START
This crossword clue is referring to a term used in sports, particularly in track and field events. A “false start” occurs when an athlete begins to move before the starting gun has sounded. This is considered a violation of the rules and can result in a disqualification or penalty. The term “early misstep” is a clever way of hinting at this concept without directly referencing sports.
11 Surface : ARISE
This crossword clue is a bit of a double-meaning puzzle. The word “surface” can refer to the outer layer or top layer of something. In this case, the answer to the clue is “arise,” which can mean to come up or emerge, as if from the surface of something. The word “arise” can also mean to wake up or stand up, which could be interpreted as “emerging” from a state of sleep or rest.
12 Cold ones : BEERS
This crossword clue is a reference to a popular alcoholic beverage. “Cold ones” is a slang term for beer that is served cold, either from a refrigerator or an ice bucket. The popularity of beer as a drink can be attributed to its refreshing taste and relatively low alcohol content compared to other types of liquor.
14 Head space? : SINUS
This crossword clue is a bit of a pun or wordplay puzzle. The “head space” referenced in the clue is a play on the phrase “headspace,” which can refer to a person’s mental or emotional state. However, in this case, the answer to the clue is “sinus,” which is a group of air-filled spaces located in the skull. Problems with the sinuses, such as inflammation or infection, can cause headaches and other discomfort in the head.
18 Serious foe : NEMESIS
This crossword clue is referring to a term used to describe a person or thing that is a particularly strong adversary or enemy. The word “nemesis” comes from Greek mythology, where it referred to a goddess who enacted retribution against those who showed hubris or arrogance. In modern usage, a “nemesis” can refer to a person, organization, or circumstance that presents a significant challenge or obstacle.
22 Took someone else’s wheels : UBERED
This crossword clue is referring to the ride-sharing service Uber. The term “Ubered” can be used to describe the act of using the Uber app to request a ride from someone else who is driving their own car. This is a popular alternative to using a traditional taxi or public transportation in many cities around the world.
24 “Diamonds & Rust” folk singer Joan : BAEZ
This crossword clue is referring to the singer Joan Baez, who is known for her contributions to the folk music genre. “Diamonds & Rust” is one of her most famous songs, which she wrote about her relationship with Bob Dylan. Baez has also been involved in political activism and social justice causes throughout her career.
25 Squishy lump : GLOB
This crossword clue is referring to a word that can be used to describe a soft, lumpy mass. The term “glob” can refer to a variety of things, from a blob of dough to a ball of slime. In some contexts, “glob” can also be used to describe something that is round or spherical in shape.
26 Lens __ : CAP
This crossword clue is referring to a small accessory that is often used to protect camera lenses. A lens cap is a small cover that can be placed over the front of a camera lens to protect it from scratches or damage. It is often used when the camera is not in use, or when it is being transported in a bag or case.
27 The Body Shop additive : ALOE
This crossword clue is referring to a natural ingredient that is commonly used in skincare and beauty products. Aloe vera is a succulent plant that is known for its healing properties, particularly for treating burns and skin irritations. The Body Shop is a popular cosmetics company that specializes in using natural and ethically-sourced ingredients in their products, including aloe vera.
28 Diamonds that don’t sparkle? : BALL FIELDS
This crossword clue is a bit of a wordplay puzzle. The term “diamonds” is often used to refer to the playing field used in the sport of baseball. These fields are typically made up of a combination of grass and dirt, arranged in a diamond shape. While actual diamonds may sparkle, the “diamonds” in this clue do not, since they are referring to the baseball fields themselves.
32 “Macho Man” Randy __ : SAVAGE
This crossword clue is referring to the former professional wrestler Randy Savage, who was known for his flamboyant personality and colorful costumes. Savage competed in the World Wrestling Federation (WWF) and other wrestling promotions throughout the 1980s and 1990s, and was a fan favorite due to his energetic and charismatic performances in the ring.
34 Pointer : TIP
This crossword clue is referring to a word that can have multiple meanings, depending on the context. In this case, “tip” can refer to the pointed end of something, such as the tip of a pencil or the tip of a needle. It can also be used to refer to a small piece of advice or guidance, as in “give me a tip on how to do this task more efficiently.”
35 Mutually support : AGREE ON
This crossword clue is referring to a phrase that means to come to a mutual understanding or consensus about something. When two or more people “agree on” something, they are essentially saying that they have the same opinion or perspective on a particular issue. This can be an important component of effective communication and collaboration in many different contexts.
36 “Acoustic Soul” artist India.__ : ARIE
This crossword clue is referring to the singer-songwriter India.Arie, who is known for her soulful and introspective music. Her debut album, “Acoustic Soul,” was released in 2001 and received critical acclaim for its blend of acoustic instruments and R&B-style vocals. Arie has since released several more albums and has been nominated for multiple Grammy Awards.
38 “Star Wars: The Last Jedi” director Johnson : RIAN
This crossword clue is referring to the filmmaker Rian Johnson, who directed the 2017 film “Star Wars: The Last Jedi.” Johnson is also known for his work on other films such as “Looper” and “Knives Out,” and is admired for his creative and innovative approach to storytelling.
39 Square figure : NERD
This crossword clue is a bit of a tongue-in-cheek reference to the stereotype of the “nerdy” or socially awkward person. The term “square” can be used to describe someone who is uncool or out of touch, which is often associated with the idea of a “nerd.” However, many people today embrace the term as a way of celebrating their love for academic pursuits, intellectualism, or other interests that are not traditionally considered “cool.”
40 Day __ : SPA
This crossword clue is referring to a word that can have multiple meanings, depending on the context. In this case, “spa” refers to a type of health resort that offers services such as massages, facials, and other treatments designed to promote relaxation and well-being. “Day spa” specifically refers to a spa that offers these services on a day-use basis, rather than as part of an overnight stay.
46 Indie rock band Yo La __ : TENGO
Yo La Tengo is an American indie rock band formed in Hoboken, New Jersey, in 1984. The band’s name comes from a Spanish phrase which means “I have it” or “I’ve got it”.
48 Pass on : RELAY
In the context of this crossword clue, “pass on” means to transmit or to pass along something. The word “relay” can mean to pass on or transfer something, as in passing on a message, baton, or a duty to someone else.
49Lyric poem : EPODE
An epode is a type of lyric poem that originated in ancient Greece. It typically consists of two lines in a couplet form that follow a longer stanza. In ancient Greek choral poetry, the epode was the final part of a three-part structure, with the other two parts being the strophe and the antistrophe.
50 “That is … ” : I MEAN
This is a common phrase used to clarify or explain something that was previously stated or assumed. “I mean” is often used to introduce a new explanation or to provide further details.
51 Gymnast Comaneci : NADIA
Nadia Comăneci is a retired Romanian gymnast who is best known for being the first gymnast to score a perfect 10 at the Olympic Games. She accomplished this feat at the age of 14 during the 1976 Montreal Olympics, where she won three gold medals.
52 2003 rom-com that won seven Razzie Awards : GIGLI
“Gigli” is a 2003 romantic comedy film starring Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez. The film was critically panned and was a box office bomb, earning it seven Razzie Awards, which are given to the worst films and performances of the year.
53 Postop therapy : REHAB
“Rehab” is short for rehabilitation, which is a program or therapy designed to help someone recover from an injury, illness, or addiction. In the context of this clue, “postop therapy” refers to the rehabilitation that
someone might undergo after a surgery.
57 Come up short : LOSE
This crossword clue is referring to the word “LOSE,” which means to be deprived of something or to fail to win. The phrase “come up short” means to fail to achieve a goal or to run out of something. So, the answer to this crossword clue is “LOSE.”
58 Years and years : AGES
The answer to this crossword clue is “AGES,” which means a very long time or a period of time that is so long that it seems endless. The phrase “years and years” is a common expression used to describe a very long period of time.
59 “Hey, c’mere!” : PSST
This crossword clue is referring to the word “PSST,” which is an informal way of getting someone’s attention. It is often used to call someone quietly or discreetly, and it is commonly used to get someone’s attention without attracting the attention of others.
61 Letters for the Queen Mary : HMS
This crossword clue is referring to the abbreviation “HMS,” which stands for “Her Majesty’s Ship.” The Queen Mary was a famous ocean liner that was launched in the 1930s, and it was used as a troop transport during World War II. So, the answer to this crossword clue is “HMS.”
62 Pt. of Hawaii : ISL
This crossword clue is referring to the abbreviation “ISL,” which stands for “island.” Hawaii is an archipelago located in the Pacific Ocean, and it consists of several islands. So, the answer to this crossword clue is “ISL,” which is short for “island.”
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