Here is the complete list of clues and answers for the Friday March 31st 2023, LA Times crossword puzzle.
ACROSS
1 Lead characters in “Mike & Molly”? : EMS
The answer to this crossword clue is “EMS”, which stands for “Emergency Medical Services”. “Mike & Molly” is an American sitcom that aired on CBS from 2010 to 2016. The show revolves around the lives of Mike Biggs, a police officer, and Molly Flynn, a schoolteacher, who meet at an Overeaters Anonymous meeting and fall in love. In the show, Mike’s mother and sister work as emergency medical technicians (EMTs), hence the reference to “EMS” in the clue.
4 Pockets for falafel : PITAS
The answer to this crossword clue is “PITAS”, which are flatbreads that are often used to hold falafel. Falafel is a Middle Eastern dish made from ground chickpeas, herbs, and spices that are shaped into small balls and deep-fried. Pitas are a popular bread in Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine, and are commonly used to wrap or hold various types of fillings.
9 Hawkeye : IOWAN
The answer to this crossword clue is “IOWAN”, which refers to a person from the U.S. state of Iowa. “Hawkeye” is the nickname for the state of Iowa, and also for the sports teams of the University of Iowa. The nickname “Hawkeye” comes from a character in the 1823 novel “The Last of the Mohicans” by James Fenimore Cooper, who was a skilled marksman and went by the name “Hawkeye”.
14 “That’s Not All Folks” memoirist Blanc : MEL
The answer to this crossword clue is “MEL”, which refers to Mel Blanc, an American voice actor and comedian. Blanc was best known for his work as a voice actor for animated characters, including Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Porky Pig. The clue references Blanc’s autobiography, which was titled “That’s Not All Folks!”.
15 Not quite right : ACUTE
The answer to this crossword clue is “ACUTE”, which means “not quite right” or “severe”. In geometry, an acute angle is an angle that is less than 90 degrees, while a right angle is exactly 90 degrees. The word “acute” can also be used to describe a medical condition that is severe but short-lived, or a sense of awareness or perception that is keen or sharp.
16 Evade, as the truth : SKIRT
The answer to this crossword clue is “SKIRT”, which means to “evade” or “avoid” something, such as the truth. The word “skirt” can also refer to a garment that hangs from the waist and covers the legs, or to the edge or border of something.
17 *Brunch station for custom orders : OMELETTE BAR
The answer to this crossword clue is “OMELETTE BAR”, which refers to a station at a brunch buffet where guests can order customized omelettes. Omelettes are a popular breakfast dish made from beaten eggs that are cooked with various fillings, such as cheese, vegetables, and meats. An omelette bar allows guests to choose their own fillings and have their omelettes made to order.
19 Gate part : LATCH
The answer to this crossword clue is “LATCH”, which refers to a mechanical device used to secure a gate or door. A latch typically consists of a bar or bolt that can be slid into a catch or slot to hold the gate or door closed. Latches are commonly used in homes, offices, and other buildings to secure doors and gates.
20 Christ the __: Rio landmark : REDEEMER
The answer to this crossword clue is “REDEEMER”, which refers to the iconic statue of “Christ the Redeemer” located in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. The statue is a symbol of Christianity and is one of the most recognizable landmarks in the world. It stands at 98 feet tall and is located at the peak of the Corcovado mountain overlooking the city of Rio de Janeiro. The statue was constructed between 1922 and 1931 and has since become a major tourist attraction in Brazil.
21 400 meters, on a standard track : LAP
The answer to this crossword clue is “LAP”, which refers to the distance of 400 meters on a standard running track. A lap is one complete circuit around the track, starting and ending at the same point. This distance is commonly used in track and field events, such as the 400-meter race, where athletes must complete one full lap around the track to reach the finish line. The 400-meter race is known for its combination of speed and endurance, as it requires athletes to maintain a fast pace for an extended period of time.
22 Polite assent : YES’M
This clue is asking for a two-word phrase that means “polite assent,” where the second word is a contraction of “ma’am.” The answer is “YES’M,” which is short for “Yes, ma’am.” This is a respectful way of agreeing with someone, especially a woman.
23 *TV competition won by singer Noah Thompson in 2022 : AMERICAN IDOL
This clue is referring to a popular TV singing competition in the United States called “American Idol.” The answer is “AMERICAN IDOL,” and the clue mentions that it was won by a singer named Noah Thompson in 2022. Of course, this is a hypothetical scenario, as 2022 has not yet happened.
28 Write : PEN
This clue is asking for a one-word answer that means “write,” and the answer is “PEN.” This is a simple and straightforward clue that relies on the multiple meanings of the word “write.” In this case, “pen” refers to the instrument used for writing, rather than the act of writing itself.
30 “Most likely … ” : ODDS ARE
This clue is asking for a two-word phrase that means “most likely,” and the answer is “ODDS ARE.” This phrase is often used to express the likelihood of something happening or being true. For example, “The odds are that it will rain tomorrow” means that it is likely to rain.
31 Checked thoroughly? : MATED
This clue is a bit trickier, as it uses a word with multiple meanings to create a pun. The answer is “MATED,” which can mean “paired for reproduction,” but in this case, the clue is using “checked” in the sense of “matched up” or “paired.” So “checked thoroughly?” is a clue that leads to “MATED.”
34 Peak : ACME
This clue is asking for a one-word answer that means “peak,” and the answer is “ACME.” This word is often used to describe the highest or most perfect point of something. For example, “the acme of her career” means the highest point in her career.
36 Irish actor Stephen : REA
This clue is asking for the name of an Irish actor named Stephen, and the answer is “REA.” Stephen Rea is a well-known Irish actor who has appeared in numerous films, TV shows, and stage productions.
37 *Many a retired pro athlete : SPORTS COMMENTATOR
This clue is asking for a two-word phrase that describes “many a retired pro athlete,” and the answer is “SPORTS COMMENTATOR.” This refers to the many former professional athletes who become sports analysts or commentators after their playing days are over. They use their knowledge and experience to provide insights and commentary on games and events.
41 Drop off : NOD
This clue is asking for a one-word answer that means “drop off,” and the answer is “NOD.” This word can mean to doze off or fall asleep briefly, as in “I nodded off during the movie.”
42 Roman moon goddess : LUNA
This clue is asking for the name of a Roman goddess associated with the moon, and the answer is “LUNA.” In Roman mythology, Luna was the goddess of the moon, often depicted as a beautiful woman with a crescent moon on her forehead.
43 Actress Spacek : SISSY
The answer to this crossword clue is SISSY, which refers to the American actress Sissy Spacek. She has appeared in numerous films and television shows, and has won several awards for her performances. Some of her notable roles include Carrie White in the horror film “Carrie,” Loretta Lynn in the biopic “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” and Ruth Fowler in the drama “In the Bedroom.”
44 Late __ : BLOOMER
The answer to this crossword clue is BLOOMER, which is often used to refer to the undergarment worn by women in the 19th century. However, in this case, the word “Late” indicates that the answer is actually “Late Bloomer,” which refers to a person who develops their skills or talents later in life than expected. It is a common idiom used to describe someone who may have struggled in their earlier years, but eventually achieved success through perseverance and hard work.
47 Shining example : GEM
The answer to this crossword clue is GEM, which is often used to refer to a precious or semi-precious stone that has been cut and polished for use in jewelry or other decorative purposes. In this context, “Shining example” is a play on words, as the word “shining” can be used to describe something that is bright or sparkling, like a gem.
48 *Masquerade, e.g. : COSTUME PARTY
The answer to this crossword clue is COSTUME PARTY, which is a type of party where guests are encouraged to wear costumes or dress up in a particular theme. The asterisk (*) next to the clue indicates that this answer is part of a theme or puzzle within the crossword. In this case, the theme may be related to events or occasions where people dress up or wear costumes, such as Halloween or Mardi Gras.
51 Former home of the Mets : SHEA
The answer to this crossword clue is SHEA, which refers to Shea Stadium, a former baseball stadium located in Queens, New York. The stadium was the home of the New York Mets from 1964 to 2008, and also hosted other events such as concerts and football games.
55 Asian festival : TET
The answer to this crossword clue is TET, which is a Vietnamese holiday that marks the beginning of the lunar new year. It is celebrated over several days in late January or early February, and is a time for families to gather, exchange gifts, and eat traditional foods.
56 Military shelter : ARMY TENT
The answer to this crossword clue is ARMY TENT, which is a type of shelter used by military personnel in the field. Tents are often used as temporary housing or living quarters, and can be set up quickly and easily. In addition to army personnel, tents are also used by hikers, campers, and other outdoor enthusiasts.
58 Book that’s all mapped out? : ATLAS
The answer to this crossword clue is ATLAS, which is a book of maps or charts. The clue is a play on words, as the phrase “all mapped out” can be used to describe something that is well-planned or organized, like the contents of an atlas. Atlas is also the name of a figure from Greek mythology who was said to hold up the world on his shoulders, which may be another reference in this clue.
61 Lifts for one’s self-esteem, and what’s been given to the answers to the starred clues : EGO BOOSTS
The clue is referring to something that helps increase one’s self-esteem, and the answer is “EGO BOOSTS.” The second part of the clue, “what’s been given to the answers to the starred clues,” suggests that the answers to some of the starred clues may be related to this concept.
62 Southern twang : DRAWL
This clue is referring to a distinctive way of speaking found in the southern United States. The answer is “DRAWL,” which describes the slow, drawn-out way of speaking characteristic of this dialect.
63 Flower part : SEPAL
The clue is referring to a part of a flower, and the answer is “SEPAL.” Sepals are typically green, leaf-like structures that protect the flower’s reproductive organs before it blooms.
64 “Happy now?” : SEE
The clue is asking if someone is happy or satisfied with something, and the answer is “SEE.” This is a play on words, as “see” can also mean to perceive or understand something.
65 Burj Khalifa’s city : DUBAI
The clue is asking for the city where the Burj Khalifa is located, and the answer is “DUBAI.” The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, and it is located in the city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates.
66 Barilla rival : PREGO
This clue is referring to two competing brands of pasta sauce. The answer is “PREGO,” which is a rival brand to Barilla.
67 Hurler’s stat : ERA
The clue is referring to a statistic used in baseball to measure the effectiveness of a pitcher. The answer is “ERA,” which stands for Earned Run Average. It is calculated by dividing the number of earned runs allowed by the number of innings pitched, and multiplying by nine.
DOWN
1 Georgia school whose unofficial mascot is Dooley the Skeleton: EMORY
Emory is a private research university in Atlanta, Georgia. Dooley the Skeleton is the unofficial mascot of the school, and is a reference to a former dean who was said to have asked for his ashes to be kept in a coffin that was to be carried by a skeleton during homecoming events.
2 Wild brawl: MELEE
A melee refers to a chaotic and confusing fight or skirmish involving multiple people. The term is often used in the context of sports, such as hockey or rugby, where physical altercations may occur between players.
3 Bobrun runners: SLEDS
Bobrun runners refer to the metal blades on the bottom of a bobsled that allow it to glide along the ice. Bobsledding is a winter sport that involves teams of two or four people racing down a winding, icy track.
4 Bánh mì spread: PATE
Bánh mì is a Vietnamese sandwich that typically includes a variety of meats, vegetables, and condiments. Pâté is a common spread used in bánh mì, and is a paste made from liver, meat, and spices.
5 Marvel hero with super cool powers? ICEMAN
Iceman is a fictional superhero in the Marvel Comics universe. His powers include the ability to manipulate ice and cold temperatures, as well as to transform his body into ice form. The reference to “super cool” powers is a play on words, as his powers are related to cold temperatures.
6 Rutabaga, e.g.: TUBER
A rutabaga is a root vegetable that belongs to the brassica family. It is similar in appearance to a turnip, but has yellow flesh and a slightly sweeter taste. Rutabagas are considered a type of tuber, which is a specialized storage organ that grows underground and is used to store nutrients.
7 Game company featured in “Ready Player One”: ATARI
Atari is a video game company that was founded in 1972 and is known for producing classic arcade games like Pong, Asteroids, and Space Invaders. The company is featured prominently in the novel and film “Ready Player One,” which is set in a virtual reality world heavily influenced by 1980s pop culture.
8 Spanish 101 verb: SER
Ser is a Spanish verb that is used to indicate permanent characteristics or qualities, such as nationality, physical appearance, or personality traits. It is one of two verbs in Spanish that are used to express the concept of “to be,” with the other being estar.
9 Christmas or Easter: ISLAND
Christmas Island and Easter Island are both real places that are named after the holidays. Christmas Island is a territory of Australia located in the Indian Ocean, while Easter Island is a remote island in the Pacific Ocean that is known for its mysterious stone statues.
10 Giraffe kin: OKAPIS
Okapis are large, hoofed mammals that are native to the rainforests of central Africa. They are closely related to giraffes, and share many physical characteristics with them, including long necks, spotted coats, and long, prehensile tongues. However, okapis are much shorter than giraffes and have much shorter necks.
11 Quipster : WIT
The answer to this crossword clue is WIT. In this context, “quipster” refers to someone who is known for their clever and humorous remarks. A wit is someone who is quick with a witty remark, often making a play on words or using irony to create humor.
12 Part of a circle : ARC
The answer to this crossword clue is ARC. An arc is a portion of a circle’s circumference. It is defined by two points on the circle and the arc itself, which is the curved line connecting those two points.
13 Ultimate power? : NTH
The answer to this crossword clue is NTH. In this context, “ultimate power” refers to the highest degree or most extreme limit of something. The term “Nth” is used to represent an unspecified large number or degree, often used in mathematical or scientific contexts.
18 Disposition : TEMPER
The answer to this crossword clue is TEMPER. Disposition refers to a person’s inherent qualities of mind and character, and their overall attitude or mood. Temper refers specifically to a person’s emotional state, particularly their tendency towards anger or irritability.
21 Encumbered : LADEN
The answer to this crossword clue is LADEN. To be “laden” means to be heavily loaded or burdened with something. In this context, “encumbered” means to be weighed down or hindered by a heavy load or responsibility.
24 Date component, often : COMMA
The answer to this crossword clue is COMMA. A comma is a punctuation mark used to separate items in a list, to set off introductory or parenthetical phrases, and to indicate a pause or break in a sentence. In the context of a date, a comma is often used to separate the day, month, and year.
25 Board game? : DARTS
The answer to this crossword clue is DARTS. Darts is a game played with small pointed missiles, also called darts, that are thrown at a circular target board, often hung on a wall. It is a popular pub game and is also played competitively in organized tournaments.
26 Cookies that can illustrate phases of the moon : OREOS
The answer to this crossword clue is OREOS. Oreos are a popular sandwich cookie made of two chocolate wafers with a sweet cream filling. In this context, the clue refers to the fact that the pattern of the cream filling can be used to illustrate the phases of the moon.
27 “The Sandlot” actor Denis : LEARY
The answer to this crossword clue is LEARY. Denis Leary is an American actor, comedian, writer, and producer. He is best known for his roles in movies such as “The Sandlot,” “Rescue Me,” and “The Amazing Spider-Man.”
29 D.C. clock setting during baseball season : EDT
The answer to this crossword clue is EDT. EDT stands for Eastern Daylight Time, which is the time zone used in the eastern region of the United States during the summer months. During baseball season, games are often played in the evening, so knowing the correct time zone is important for fans who want to catch the action.
31 Rachel Maddow’s channel : MSNBC
This crossword clue is referring to the American cable news channel MSNBC, which is known for its progressive political programming. Rachel Maddow is a popular news anchor and commentator who hosts her own show on the network, “The Rachel Maddow Show,” which covers politics and current events from a liberal perspective.
32 Speed skater Ohno : APOLO
This crossword clue is referring to Apolo Ohno, a retired American speed skater who won eight Olympic medals in his career. He is one of the most decorated American Winter Olympians of all time, and he also competed on the reality TV show “Dancing with the Stars” and served as a commentator for NBC during the 2014 Winter Olympics.
33 Ruckuses : TO-DOS
This crossword clue is referring to a commotion or disturbance, often caused by a noisy argument or disagreement. The phrase “to-do” can also be used to describe a fuss or uproar, and it’s often used in the expression “make a to-do,” which means to create a scene or make a big deal out of something.
34 “Precision Crafted Performance” sloganeer : ACURA
This crossword clue is referring to the luxury car brand Acura, which is owned by the Japanese automaker Honda. “Precision Crafted Performance” is the company’s marketing slogan, which emphasizes the high-quality engineering and performance features of their vehicles.
35 Scam : CON
This crossword clue is referring to a fraudulent scheme or deception, often aimed at tricking someone out of their money or valuables. The word “con” is short for “confidence,” and it’s often used to describe a type of scam that involves gaining someone’s trust in order to exploit them.
38 Dropped off : SLEPT
This crossword clue is referring to the act of falling asleep or becoming less alert or attentive. The phrase “dropped off” can also be used to describe a decrease in quantity or intensity, as in the case of a fading sound or a waning interest.
39 “Four Quartets” monogram : TSE
This crossword clue is referring to the poet T.S. Eliot, who wrote the collection of poems “Four Quartets.” The initials “TSE” stand for his full name, Thomas Stearns Eliot, and they are often used as a monogram or shorthand to refer to him.
40 Has as a goal : AIMS TO
This crossword clue is referring to the act of setting a specific objective or target, often with the intention of achieving it through focused effort and determination. The phrase “aims to” is often used to describe someone’s intentions or aspirations, as in the sentence “She aims to become a doctor someday.”
45 Parliament site in North America : OTTAWA
This crossword clue is referring to the capital city of Canada, Ottawa, which is home to the country’s federal government and parliament. The Canadian Parliament is made up of the House of Commons and the Senate, and it is responsible for passing laws and making decisions on behalf of the Canadian people.
46 Cereal mix : MUESLI
This crossword clue is referring to a type of breakfast cereal that originated in Switzerland. Muesli is made from a mixture of rolled oats, nuts, seeds, and dried fruits, and it’s often served with milk or yogurt. It’s a popular choice for people who are looking for a healthy and filling breakfast option.
47 Backpack in a locker, maybe : GYM BAG
This clue is referring to a type of bag that is commonly used for carrying gym clothes and equipment. A gym bag is typically made of durable materials, has multiple compartments for storage, and may have a shoulder strap for easy carrying. The bag is often kept in a locker at a gym or fitness center.
49 Epic bash : RAGER
This clue is referring to a wild party or celebration that is characterized by excessive drinking, dancing, and socializing. A rager is an informal term for a party that is particularly lively and memorable. The term is often used to describe events that are attended by a large group of people and feature loud music, flashing lights, and other types of sensory stimulation.
50 Familiar theme : TROPE
This clue is referring to a recurring motif or literary device that is commonly used in literature, film, and other forms of media. A trope is a recognizable pattern or convention that is often used to convey a particular message or meaning. Examples of tropes include the “damsel in distress,” the “hero’s journey,” and the “love triangle.”
52 “Steppenwolf” author : HESSE
This clue is referring to the German-Swiss author Hermann Hesse, who is best known for his novel “Steppenwolf.” The novel, which was first published in 1927, tells the story of a middle-aged man named Harry Haller who struggles with feelings of isolation and despair. Hesse was a prominent figure in the German literary scene during the early 20th century and is regarded as one of the most influential writers of his time.
53 Key in : ENTER
This clue is referring to a command that is often used in computer programs and other digital devices. “Enter” is typically used to indicate that a user should input or submit data into a system. In most cases, the “Enter” key on a keyboard is used to initiate this command.
54 Lost : AT SEA
This clue is referring to a phrase that is often used to describe a situation in which a person or object is missing and cannot be located. The phrase “at sea” is commonly used to describe situations involving ships or boats that have gone missing or encountered problems while out on the open water.
57 “Carpe diem” acronym : YOLO
This clue is referring to a popular acronym that is often used to encourage people to seize the day and live in the moment. “YOLO” stands for “you only live once,” and is often used as a reminder that life is short and should be enjoyed to the fullest.
58 Do some sums : ADD
This clue is referring to a basic arithmetic operation that involves combining two or more numbers to get a total. Adding is one of the most fundamental mathematical skills and is often taught in elementary school.
59 Capote nickname : TRU
This clue is referring to the American writer Truman Capote, who was often referred to by the nickname “Tru.” Capote was best known for his works of non-fiction, including “In Cold Blood” and “Breakfast at Tiffany’s.”
60 CSI setting: LAB
The answer to this clue is “LAB,” which stands for laboratory. In the context of the popular television show CSI (Crime Scene Investigation), a “LAB” refers to the crime lab where forensic scientists and technicians analyze evidence collected from crime scenes. These labs are equipped with state-of-the-art technology and specialized equipment to help investigators gather and analyze data to solve crimes. In a CSI lab, scientists may examine fingerprints, DNA samples, ballistics evidence, trace evidence (such as fibers or hairs), and other materials to help piece together clues that can help solve a crime.
61 Unproven ability: ESP
The answer to this clue is “ESP,” which stands for extrasensory perception. This term refers to the supposed ability of some individuals to perceive information beyond the five senses (sight, sound, touch, taste, and smell). People who claim to have ESP may believe that they can see or sense things that others cannot, such as events in the future or information about people or places that they have never encountered. However, there is no scientific evidence to support the existence of ESP, and many skeptics believe that any claims of extrasensory perception can be explained by more rational or naturalistic means.
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