Here is the complete list of clues and answers for the Friday May 12th 2023, LA Times crossword puzzle.
ACROSS
1 Informant: RAT
The word “rat” is an anagram of the word “informant.” An informant is someone who provides information to the police or other authorities, often about criminal activity.
4 MGM part: METRO
The word “metro” is an anagram of the word “MGM.” Metro-Goldwyn-Mayer is an American film and television production company.
9 Labor leader Chavez: CESAR
The word “Cesar” is an anagram of the word “Chavez.” Hugo Chavez was a Venezuelan politician who served as President of Venezuela from 1999 until his death in 2013.
14 Goof: ERR
The word “err” is an anagram of the word “goof.” To err is to make a mistake.
15 Sprinter Bolt: USAIN
The word “Usain” is an anagram of the word “Bolt.” Usain Bolt is a Jamaican sprinter who is considered to be one of the greatest sprinters of all time.
16 Enough: AMPLE
The word “ample” is an anagram of the word “enough.” Ample means sufficient or more than enough.
17 Leg muscle of a mathlete?: GEEK’S QUAD
The word “geek’s quad” is an anagram of the word “quadriceps.” The quadriceps is a muscle in the thigh that is responsible for extending the knee.
19 Stacked : BUILT
In this crossword clue, the word “stacked” is used as a synonym for “built.” When we say something is “stacked,” we usually mean that it has been assembled by placing one thing on top of another. For example, you might say that a pile of books is “stacked” on your desk. The word “built” also implies construction or assembly, but it tends to be used more broadly to refer to the creation of something from individual parts or components.
20 “Don’t you agree?,” informally : INNIT
The word “innit” is a contraction of “isn’t it.” It’s a slang term that’s commonly used in British English to ask for agreement or confirmation. For example, if you were to say “The weather’s terrible today, innit?” you’d be asking the person you’re speaking to if they agree that the weather is bad.
21 Darn things : SEW
In this crossword clue, the word “darn” is used as a homophone for “sew.” When we say we need to “darn” something, we usually mean we need to repair a hole or tear in a piece of clothing or fabric by sewing it back together. So “darn things” could be interpreted as things that need to be sewn, and the answer “sew” fits that definition perfectly.
23 However, poetically : THO’
The word “tho'” is a poetic contraction of “though.” It’s often used in writing or speech to indicate a contrast or qualification to what has just been said. For example, you might say “The weather’s terrible today, tho’ I must admit it’s good for the garden.” In this case, the word “tho'” is used to introduce a contrasting thought to the initial statement about the weather.
24 Game requiring plug-ins? : MAD LIBS
Mad Libs is a word game that involves filling in blanks in a story with various parts of speech, such as nouns, verbs, and adjectives. The resulting story is usually humorous and nonsensical because the blanks are filled in without any knowledge of the overall context or plot. The clue “game requiring plug-ins” is a play on words, as “plug-ins” usually refers to software components that add functionality to a program, but in this case, it’s referring to the act of “plugging in” different words to complete the story.
27 Idle talk : CHATTER
“Chatter” is a term used to describe excessive or meaningless talk. When we say someone is “chattering,” we usually mean that they’re talking a lot without saying anything of substance. The word “idle” in this context means “without purpose,” so “idle talk” is synonymous with “chatter.”
30 International gas brand : ESSO
Esso is an international brand of gasoline that’s owned by ExxonMobil. It was originally founded in the United States in 1912 and has since expanded to become one of the world’s largest oil and gas companies. In some countries, Esso is known as Exxon or Mobil, depending on the local market and branding strategies.
31 Fruity pastry made by a movie boxer? : ROCKY’S TART
This crossword clue is a play on words involving the name of the fictional boxer Rocky Balboa, who was portrayed by Sylvester Stallone in the Rocky film series. The word “tart” can refer to a pastry that’s often filled with fruit and has a shortcrust or pastry crust. By combining “Rocky” and “tart,” we get “Rocky’s Tart,” which could be interpreted as a pastry created by Rocky Balboa himself. The answer to this clue is therefore a “fruity pastry.”
33 Source of a low blow? : TUBA
In music, a “low blow” can refer to a note or sound that’s produced by a low-pitched instrument. The tuba is one such instrument, as it produces very low-pitched notes that are often used to create a sense of depth or resonance in orchestral music. By combining “source” and “low blow,” we get “Tuba,” which is the answer to this crossword clue.
34 “History of the World, Part II” actress/writer Wanda : SYKES
Wanda Sykes is an American actress and comedian who’s appeared in a number of television shows and movies over the years. She’s also a writer, having worked on a number of television series and stand-up comedy specials. The clue “History of the World, Part II” refers to a 1981 comedy film directed by Mel Brooks, in which Sykes had a small role. The answer to this crossword clue is therefore “Sykes.”
35 Pub pour for an enlisted soldier? : PRIVATE’S ALE
This crossword clue is another play on words involving military terminology. A “private” is the lowest rank in many armies, and an “ale” is a type of beer that’s commonly served in pubs. By combining “private” and “ale,” we get “Private’s Ale,” which could be interpreted as a type of beer that’s specifically reserved for enlisted soldiers.
39 Like part of some fusion cuisine : ASIAN
Asian cuisine is known for its diverse range of flavors and ingredients, which are often combined in unique and innovative ways. “Fusion cuisine” refers to a style of cooking that combines elements of different culinary traditions, often resulting in dishes that are both familiar and new. The word “Asian” in this crossword clue refers to the fact that many fusion cuisines incorporate elements of traditional Asian cooking, such as Thai, Japanese, or Chinese cuisine.
41 Semisoft cheese : EDAM
Edam is a type of cheese that originated in the Netherlands. It’s known for its distinctive round shape and red wax coating, which helps to preserve the cheese and give it a longer shelf life. Edam cheese is classified as a “semi-soft” cheese, which means that it has a texture that’s softer than a hard cheese but firmer than a soft cheese, such as brie or camembert.
42 Vacation for a stand-up performer? : COMIC’S TRIP
This crossword clue is a play on words involving the word “trip,” which can refer to a journey or vacation. A “comic” is a stand-up performer or comedian who tells jokes and humorous stories to an audience. By combining “comic” and “trip,” we get “Comic’s Trip,” which could be interpreted as a vacation specifically for a stand-up performer.
45 Shirt part with a button : CUFF
The “cuff” of a shirt is the part at the end of the sleeve that wraps around the wrist and is often fastened with a button. Cuffs can be styled in different ways, with some featuring buttons, links, or other decorative elements.
49 Tip : POINTER
A “pointer” can refer to a tool or device that’s used to indicate or draw attention to something. For example, a computer mouse typically has a pointer that moves on the screen to indicate the user’s position. In this crossword clue, “tip” could also be interpreted as a synonym for “pointer,” since both words can refer to something that indicates or directs attention.
50 ESPN Deportes language : ESPANOL
ESPN Deportes is a Spanish-language sports channel that’s part of the ESPN network. The word “español” is Spanish for “Spanish,” which is the language used on the channel. This crossword clue is a straightforward reference to the language used on ESPN Deportes.
52 Small bill : ONE
In the United States, a “one” is a common slang term for a one-dollar bill. This crossword clue is a straightforward reference to the denomination of a small bill.
53 Crossed (out) : XED
To “cross out” something means to draw a line through it to indicate that it’s no longer valid or relevant. “Xed” is a shortened form of “crossed out,” which could be used in a sentence such as “I xed out the mistake in my notes.”
55 __ board : EMERY
An “emery board” is a type of abrasive board that’s used to shape and smooth the nails. The board is typically made of a strip of cardboard or wood that’s coated with a layer of emery, a type of abrasive mineral. Emery boards are commonly used in manicures and pedicures.
56 Pegasus pair : WINGS
In Greek mythology, Pegasus was a winged horse that was said to be able to fly. The horse was often depicted with large, powerful wings that allowed it to soar through the air. In this crossword clue, “Pegasus pair” could be interpreted as a reference to the horse’s wings.
59 Makes room, and when parsed differently, an instruction for four answers in this puzzle : MOVES OVER and MOVE “S” OVER
The clue “Makes room” is a reference to the phrase “moves over,” which means to make space for someone or something else. When the phrase is parsed differently as “move ‘s’ over,” it becomes an instruction for solving four answers in this puzzle. The “s” needs to be moved over one space to reveal the correct answer. This is a common type of crossword puzzle clue that requires the solver to think outside the box and look for alternative interpretations of the clue.
62 First name in cosmetics : ESTEE
“Estee” is the first name of Estee Lauder, a famous American businesswoman who founded the cosmetics company that bears her name. Lauder is widely recognized as a pioneer in the cosmetics industry, and her company is known for producing high-quality skincare and makeup products.
63 Netflix crime drama set in Missouri : OZARK
“Ozark” is a popular crime drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2017. The show is set in the Ozarks region of Missouri and follows the story of a financial planner who moves his family to the area to launder money for a drug cartel. The show has received critical acclaim for its intense storylines and strong performances from its cast.
64 Self-regard : EGO
The term “ego” is used to describe a person’s sense of self-importance or self-esteem. In psychology, the ego is one of the three parts of the psyche that Freud identified, along with the id and the superego. In everyday language, the term “ego” is often used to describe someone who is arrogant or overly self-involved.
65 River in a van Gogh painting : RHONE
The Rhone is a major river that flows through Switzerland and France. In art history, the Rhone is perhaps most famous for appearing in several paintings by the Dutch artist Vincent van Gogh, who painted the river in Arles, France during his time there in the late 1800s.
66 Event of passing interest? : RELAY
A “relay” is a type of track and field race in which runners take turns completing a specified distance. In this crossword clue, “event of passing interest” is a play on words, as the runners in a relay race pass a baton between each other as they run.
67 Silent approval : NOD
A “nod” is a subtle head movement that is often used to indicate agreement, approval, or recognition. The act of nodding can be a way of communicating nonverbally, and it’s often used in situations where speaking might be inappropriate or unnecessary. In this crossword clue, “silent approval” is a reference to the gesture of nodding.
DOWN
1 Ruling period : REGIME
The term “regime” refers to a period of time during which a particular government or ruling authority is in power. The word often carries a negative connotation, and is sometimes used to describe oppressive or authoritarian governments.
2 Entertainment centers? : ARENAS
In this crossword clue, “arenas” is a play on words. The word is typically used to describe large, open-air venues where sporting events or concerts are held. However, in this context, “arenas” can also be interpreted as “places of entertainment” more broadly.
3 Directions : TRENDS
While “directions” typically refers to instructions for how to get from one place to another, in this crossword clue, “directions” is used in a more abstract sense to refer to “trends” or patterns of change over time. “Trends” are often used to describe shifts in popular opinion, fashion, or technology.
4 “You honestly need me to do that?” : MUST I
This crossword clue is a sarcastic or rhetorical question that is often used to express reluctance or annoyance at being asked to do something. It implies that the speaker is being asked to do something that they feel is unnecessary or inconvenient.
5 Letters on some office suite doors : ESQ
The abbreviation “Esq.” is short for “Esquire,” and is sometimes used after a person’s name to indicate that they are a lawyer. In this crossword clue, “ESQ” refers to the letters that are often found on the doors of law offices or other professional suites.
6 Sigma follower : TAU
In the Greek alphabet, “sigma” is the eighteenth letter and “tau” is the nineteenth. In this crossword clue, “sigma follower” is a reference to the fact that “tau” comes after “sigma” in the alphabet.
7 Narrow inlets : RIAS
A “ria” is a type of coastal inlet that is formed when sea levels rise and flood the lower parts of river valleys. Rias are often characterized by narrow, winding channels that are sheltered from the open ocean by steep cliffs or hills.
8 Next: ON DECK
The phrase “on deck” comes from the sport of baseball, where it refers to the player who is due to bat next. The “on deck circle” is the area near the batter’s box where the next batter waits for their turn at bat. In a broader sense, “on deck” can be used to mean “next in line” or “upcoming.”
9 Indie rockers Death __ for Cutie: CAB
The indie rock band Death Cab for Cutie formed in 1997 and hails from Bellingham, Washington. Their name is a reference to a song by the Bonzo Dog Doo-Dah Band called “Death Cab for Cutie,” which was itself a reference to a phrase from the 1968 film “Magical Mystery Tour” by The Beatles.
10 Cassowary cousin: EMU
The cassowary and the emu are both flightless birds native to Australia. While they are not closely related (they belong to different families within the order Casuariiformes), they share some physical similarities, including their long legs and the fact that they are flightless.
11 Classic bit of slapstick: SPIT-TAKE
A “spit-take” is a comedic bit in which a character takes a drink of something (usually water or another clear liquid) and then spits it out in surprise or shock in response to something they hear or see. This type of gag has been used in movies, television shows, and comedy sketches for decades and is a classic example of physical comedy.
12 “Everyone’s accounted for”: ALL HERE
The phrase “all here” is often used to indicate that everyone who was expected to be present is indeed present. It can be used in a variety of settings, from checking attendance in a classroom to taking roll call on a ship or airplane.
13 Fires back, in a way: RETORTS
To “retort” is to respond to a comment or question in a sharp, often witty manner. This can be done in conversation or in writing, and is often used when someone feels that they have been challenged or criticized in some way. A good retort can be an effective way to deflect criticism or turn the tables on someone who is trying to argue with you.
18 K, in the NATO alphabet : KILO
In the NATO phonetic alphabet, each letter is assigned a code word to avoid confusion when communicating verbally. KILO is the code word for the letter K, which is used in radio communication, military, aviation, and other contexts.
22 Frequent question from a toddler : WHY
Toddlers are known for their curiosity and endless questioning, and “why” is often one of their favorite words. They use it to explore the world around them, learn new things, and understand cause and effect.
25 British dude : BRUV
“Bruv” is a British slang term that is short for “brother” and is often used to refer to a male friend or acquaintance. It is commonly used in London and other urban areas in the UK.
26 Buckwheat noodle : SOBA
Soba is a type of Japanese noodle made from buckwheat flour and wheat flour. It is a thin, grayish-brown noodle with a slightly nutty flavor and is often served cold with a dipping sauce or in hot broth.
28 Indian state near Bhutan : ASSAM
Assam is a state located in northeastern India, near the border with Bhutan. It is known for its tea plantations, wildlife reserves, and diverse ethnic communities.
29 Brief sign-off : TTYL
“TTYL” is an abbreviation for “talk to you later.” It is often used as a casual and informal way to end a conversation, especially in online messaging or texting.
32 Cover the spread? : CATER
“Cater” can refer to providing food or a meal for an event or a group of people. In the context of this crossword clue, “cover the spread” may be a play on words referring to the action of covering food dishes or platters with lids or covers.
33 Hint of color : TINCT
“Tinct” is a shortened form of “tincture” and refers to a small amount of color or pigment. In the context of this crossword clue, “hint of color” implies a subtle or faint coloring or tint.
35 Olive stuffing : PIMIENTO
“Pimiento” is a type of sweet pepper that is often used in cooking, especially in Mediterranean and Latin American cuisine. It is also commonly used as a stuffing for olives, giving them a mild, sweet flavor.
36 Cloudburst : RAIN
A cloudburst is a sudden, heavy rainfall that typically lasts for a short period of time. It can be accompanied by thunder and lightning and is often associated with intense storms or monsoon seasons.
37 Singer Brickell : EDIE
Edie Brickell is an American singer-songwriter and guitarist. She is best known for her work with the band Edie Brickell & New Bohemians, as well as her solo career.
38 Drains : SAPS
“Saps” can refer to drains or channels that are used to remove excess water or other liquids from an area. In a figurative sense, “saps” can also refer to things that drain or deplete energy, resources, or vitality.
39 Household outlet output : AC POWER
“AC power” refers to the alternating current that is used to power most household electrical appliances and devices. It is supplied through standard electrical outlets and is typically generated by power plants and distributed through the power grid.
40 “In a few” : SOONISH
“Soonish” is an informal term that means “in the near future” or “soon, but not immediately.” It is a humorous way to express a vague or uncertain time frame, often used when a specific date or time is not known.
43 __ ed : SEX
“Sex” is a word that can be combined with various prefixes to form different words and meanings. When combined with the prefix “-ed,” it can form words like “sexed” which can refer to the act of determining the gender of an animal or plant, or “sexed up,” which can refer to something made more interesting or exciting through the addition of sexual content.
44 Shiver : TREMOR
A “tremor” is a small, involuntary shaking or trembling of the body, often caused by nervousness, excitement, or a medical condition like Parkinson’s disease. It can also refer to a slight earthquake or seismic activity.
45 Hunting garb : CAMO
“Camo” is short for “camouflage” and refers to clothing or gear designed to blend in with the natural environment and make the wearer less visible or detectable. It is commonly used in hunting, military, and outdoor activities.
46 Bumpy : UNEVEN
“Uneven” means not level or smooth and can refer to surfaces, terrain, or other physical attributes. It can also be used in a figurative sense to describe things that are inconsistent or irregular.
47 Precede : FOREGO
“To forego” means to give up or do without something, often as a sacrifice or to make a choice. In the context of this crossword clue, “precede” can be interpreted as “to give up something that comes later,” such as a reward or benefit.
48 Casting option : FLY ROD
A “fly rod” is a type of fishing rod that is designed for fly fishing, a method of fishing where an artificial “fly” is used to lure fish. Fly rods are typically long and flexible, allowing for precise casting of the fly line and greater control over the lure.
51 Annoying : PESKY
“Pesky” is an informal term that means annoying, bothersome, or troublesome. It can refer to people, situations, or things that are causing frustration or irritation.
54 Nap : DOZE
“To doze” means to sleep lightly or briefly, often during the day or while sitting upright. A “nap” can refer to a short period of sleep taken during the day, typically lasting from a few minutes to a few hours.
57 Mil. title : GEN
“Gen” is a shortened form of “general” and is a military title that refers to a high-ranking officer who is typically in charge of a division or larger unit. Generals are responsible for planning and executing military operations, as well as providing leadership and direction to the troops under their command.
58 Match, in poker : SEE
To “see” in poker means to match the bet made by another player in a given round of betting. If a player “sees” a bet, they are essentially matching it and staying in the game, rather than folding or raising.
60 Kilmer of film : VAL
Val Kilmer is an American actor best known for his roles in movies such as “Top Gun,” “Batman Forever,” and “The Doors.” He has also appeared in numerous stage productions and television shows.
61 Cy Young stat : ERA
“Cy Young” is the name of an award given annually to the best pitchers in Major League Baseball. The award is named after Cy Young, a legendary pitcher from the early 1900s. “ERA” stands for “earned run average,” which is a statistic used to measure the effectiveness of a pitcher. It is calculated by dividing the total number of earned runs a pitcher allows by the number of innings pitched, multiplied by nine.
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