Here is the complete list of clues and answers for the Thursday May 18th 2023, LA Times crossword puzzle.
ACROSS
1 Possesses : HAS
This clue refers to the word “possesses” and the answer is “HAS”. “Has” is a verb that indicates ownership or possession of something. For example, “He has a car” means that he owns a car or is in possession of it.
4 Participate in the gig economy, say : TEMP
This clue hints at a word that describes a type of work arrangement commonly associated with the gig economy. The answer is “TEMP,” short for “temporary.” Temping refers to the act of taking on temporary or short-term jobs, often on a freelance basis, without committing to a full-time or permanent position.
8 Hornet’s defense : STING
This clue revolves around the defense mechanism of a hornet. The answer is “STING.” When threatened or provoked, a hornet can use its stinger to deliver a painful or venomous sting as a means of defending itself.
13 Moody genre : EMO
This clue suggests a genre that is associated with a particular mood or emotional tone. The answer is “EMO.” Emo is a genre of music characterized by its emotional and introspective lyrics, often expressing themes of sadness, heartbreak, and angst.
14 Added to the staff : HIRED
This clue hints at the act of bringing someone into a team or organization. The answer is “HIRED.” When someone is “hired,” it means they have been selected and employed for a job or position, often as a new addition to an existing staff or team.
16 Youngest Kardashian sister : KHLOE
This clue refers to a member of the Kardashian family, specifically the youngest sister. The answer is “KHLOE.” Khloe Kardashian is a television personality and entrepreneur who gained fame through the reality TV show “Keeping Up with the Kardashians.”
17 Legged it : RAN
This clue suggests a phrase that means to run or move quickly. The answer is “RAN.” “Legged it” is an idiomatic expression used to describe the act of running away or escaping, often hastily or urgently, from a particular situation.
18 *Pronoun for a spokesperson: EDITORIAL WE
This clue suggests a pronoun that is used to refer to a spokesperson or a group of people representing a particular organization or publication. The answer is “EDITORIAL WE.” The term “editorial we” is used when an individual, typically an editor or author, speaks on behalf of their publication or company, using the collective pronoun “we” to represent their organization.
20 Missouri’s __ Mountains: OZARK
This clue refers to a mountain range in the state of Missouri. The answer is “OZARK.” The Ozark Mountains are a region located primarily in Arkansas and Missouri, known for their scenic beauty, rolling hills, and outdoor recreational opportunities.
22 Land by the sea: COAST
This clue suggests a word that describes an area or region adjacent to the sea or ocean. The answer is “COAST.” The coast refers to the land along the shoreline, where the land and the sea meet.
23 *Decorative touch made with a small paintbrush, e.g.: DETAIL WORK
This clue hints at a phrase that describes a specific type of decorative embellishment created using a small paintbrush or fine workmanship. The answer is “DETAIL WORK.” Detail work refers to the intricate or precise finishing touches applied to a larger piece or project, often done with careful attention to small details.
26 Text incessantly: SPAM
This clue suggests a word that means to send an excessive or unwanted amount of text messages or emails. The answer is “SPAM.” Spamming refers to the act of sending unsolicited and often repetitive messages, typically advertising or promotional in nature, to a large number of recipients.
30 Mexico’s national flower: DAHLIA
This clue refers to the national flower of Mexico. The answer is “DAHLIA.” The Dahlia is a type of flower that is native to Mexico and is considered the national flower of the country. Dahlias are known for their vibrant colors and diverse varieties.
31 Upscale cosmetics chain: SEPHORA
This clue hints at a popular chain of stores that specializes in selling high-end cosmetics and beauty products. The answer is “SEPHORA.” Sephora is an international retailer known for its extensive selection of makeup, skincare, fragrance, and haircare products from various brands.
33 Boyos: LADS
This clue refers to a colloquial term for boys or young men. The answer is “LADS.” “Lads” is a noun used to refer to a group of male individuals, often in a casual or familiar context.
35 Time capsule object: RELIC
This clue suggests an item that would be commonly found in a time capsule, which is a container filled with artifacts and objects intended to be preserved and opened in the future. The answer is “RELIC.” A relic is an object that has historical, cultural, or sentimental value, often associated with a past era or event.
36 *What “we are living in,” per a Madonna hit song: MATERIAL WORLD
This clue refers to lyrics from a Madonna hit song that describe the current state of society. The answer is “MATERIAL WORLD.” The phrase “material world” is derived from the song “Material Girl” by Madonna, which emphasizes the importance of wealth, possessions, and materialism in modern culture.
41 Head-scratcher: POSER
This clue suggests a term for something that is puzzling or difficult to understand. The answer is “POSER.” A poser refers to a question, problem, or situation that causes confusion or requires careful consideration. It can also refer to a person who pretends to have knowledge or expertise they don’t actually possess.
42 Polite title: MA’AM
This clue hints at a term used to address a woman politely, particularly in formal or respectful situations. The answer is “MA’AM.” “Ma’am” is a contraction of the word “madam” and is used as a courteous and respectful form of address, typically for women of higher rank, authority, or age.
43 “You free?”: GOT A SEC
This clue represents a casual inquiry asking if someone has a moment or some free time. The answer is “GOT A SEC.” The phrase “Got a sec” is a shortened form of “Got a second” and is commonly used to ask if someone is available or has a brief moment to spare for a conversation or task.
46 Universal basic __: INCOME
This clue hints at a term that refers to a fundamental and unconditional form of financial support provided to all individuals within a society. The answer is “INCOME.” Universal Basic Income (UBI) is a concept that proposes regular and unconditional cash payments to all members of a community or country, regardless of their employment status or income level. It is intended to address poverty, inequality, and provide a basic level of economic security.
50 Symbol on the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant cooling towers: ATOM
This clue refers to a symbol associated with the Springfield Nuclear Power Plant, a fictional location in the television show “The Simpsons.” The answer is “ATOM.” The atom symbol, often represented as a nucleus surrounded by orbiting electrons, is commonly used to signify nuclear power or atomic energy.
51 *Wraps at a spa: HAIR TOWELS
This clue suggests an activity or item commonly found in a spa that involves wrapping something around the hair. The answer is “HAIR TOWELS.” Hair towels are large, absorbent towels specifically designed for wrapping around the hair to help dry it or protect it during spa treatments.
54 Skin and bones: GAUNT
This clue describes a state or appearance of extreme thinness or emaciation. The answer is “GAUNT.” When someone is described as “skin and bones” or “gaunt,” it means that they are very thin or underweight, often with visible bones and little body fat.
56 Not satisfied: UNMET
This clue suggests a term that describes a state of not having one’s desires or expectations fulfilled. The answer is “UNMET.” When something is “unmet,” it means that it has not been achieved, accomplished, or fulfilled. It can refer to unfulfilled needs, goals, or expectations.
57 Substances that never mix, except in the answers to the starred clues? : OIL AND WATER
This clue refers to a phrase that describes two substances that do not mix or blend together. The answer is “OIL AND WATER.” Oil and water are immiscible liquids, meaning they do not dissolve or mix with each other due to differences in their chemical properties and molecular structures. In the context of the crossword puzzle, the starred clues all involve answers that contain the words “oil” and “water.”
62 Egg cells: OVA
This clue refers to the reproductive cells produced by female organisms. The answer is “OVA.” Ova, also known as eggs, are the female reproductive cells involved in sexual reproduction. In humans and many other animals, ova are produced in the ovaries and serve as the female gametes.
63 Word with number or time: PRIME
This clue suggests a word that can be combined with “number” or “time” to form common phrases or concepts. The answer is “PRIME.” When combined with “number,” it refers to a prime number, which is a positive integer greater than 1 that has no divisors other than 1 and itself. When combined with “time,” it can refer to the concept of prime time, which is the period of the day when television or radio audiences are traditionally the largest.
64 “Cats” poet: ELIOT
This clue refers to a poet associated with the famous musical “Cats.” The answer is “ELIOT.” T.S. Eliot, full name Thomas Stearns Eliot, was a renowned British poet, playwright, and literary critic. His collection of poems titled “Old Possum’s Book of Practical Cats” served as the basis for the musical “Cats” by Andrew Lloyd Webber.
65 Cartoonist Sorensen who was the first woman to win the Herblock Prize: JEN
This clue mentions a cartoonist who achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first woman to win the Herblock Prize. The answer is “JEN.” Jen Sorensen is an American cartoonist known for her editorial cartoons and comic strip “Slowpoke.” In 2017, she became the first woman to receive the Herblock Prize, an esteemed award recognizing excellence in editorial cartooning.
66 “Nothing gets past me”: I KNEW
This clue represents a phrase or statement indicating that the person is highly perceptive or aware. The answer is “I KNEW.” When someone says “I knew,” it means that they were already aware or had prior knowledge of something, implying that nothing can surprise or deceive them.
67 Cravings: YENS
This clue refers to a word that represents strong desires or yearnings. The answer is “YENS.” “Yens” is a noun used to describe intense cravings or longings for something, often associated with a strong appetite or desire for specific experiences, objects, or sensations.
68 Stuff in a pen: INK
This clue hints at the substance used for writing or drawing in a pen. The answer is “INK.” Ink is a liquid or semi-solid material, typically composed of pigments or dyes suspended in a solvent, that is used for writing, printing, or drawing. It is stored in and dispensed from a pen to create marks on paper or other surfaces.
DOWN
1 Judean king: HEROD
This clue refers to a historical figure who held the title of king in Judea. The answer is “HEROD.” There were several rulers from the Herodian dynasty who held the title of king in Judea during the time of the Roman Empire. The most well-known is King Herod the Great, who is famously associated with the biblical accounts of Jesus’ birth.
2 Gobsmacked: AMAZED
This clue describes a state of being extremely surprised or astonished. The answer is “AMAZED.” When someone is “gobsmacked,” it means they are completely taken aback or stunned by something unexpected or remarkable.
3 Handel bars?: SONATA
This clue plays on the word “bars” in a musical context, hinting at a composition by Handel. The answer is “SONATA.” A sonata is a musical composition for solo instrument or a small ensemble, typically consisting of multiple movements. Handel, a renowned composer of the Baroque era, wrote numerous sonatas among his vast repertoire.
4 “Mr. Brightside” band: THE KILLERS
This clue refers to a popular rock band known for their hit song “Mr. Brightside.” The answer is “THE KILLERS.” The Killers are an American rock band formed in Las Vegas, Nevada. They gained significant success with their debut album “Hot Fuss” and are recognized for their energetic performances and catchy songs.
5 Holiday on which it’s forbidden to fast, familiarly: EID
This clue hints at a religious holiday during which fasting is prohibited. The answer is “EID.” Eid is a term used to refer to Islamic festivals or holidays. The most well-known is Eid al-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting in the Islamic calendar. On Eid al-Fitr, Muslims celebrate with feasts and communal prayers, and fasting is not observed on this day.
6 Picture of health?: MRI
This clue plays on the word “picture” in a medical context. The answer is “MRI.” MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, which is a medical imaging technique used to visualize detailed internal structures of the body. It produces high-resolution images that can assist in diagnosing and assessing various health conditions.
7 Place to buy fish: PETCO
This clue refers to a retail store specializing in pet supplies, including fish. The answer is “PETCO.” Petco is a well-known chain of pet stores that offers a wide range of products and services for various pets, including fish. They provide aquariums, fish food, and other supplies needed for fishkeeping enthusiasts.
8 Gear for Mikaela Shiffrin: SKIS
This clue refers to the equipment used by a specific person, Mikaela Shiffrin, who is known for a particular activity or sport. The answer is “SKIS.” Mikaela Shiffrin is an American professional alpine ski racer, and skis are the primary equipment she uses for her sport. Skis are long, narrow devices worn on the feet to glide over snow, enabling downhill skiing.
9 “She’s the one!”: THAT’S HER
This clue represents an exclamation or statement indicating that a specific person is the one being referred to or sought after. The answer is “THAT’S HER.” The phrase “That’s her” is used to point out or identify a particular woman as the person being discussed or indicated.
10 Not well: ILL
This clue describes a state of being in poor health or experiencing illness. The answer is “ILL.” When someone is “ill,” it means that they are not well, experiencing physical discomfort, or suffering from a medical condition.
11 “And make it snappy”: NOW
This clue represents a phrase or statement urging someone to act quickly or without delay. The answer is “NOW.” The phrase “And make it snappy” is a colloquial expression used to ask someone to do something promptly or expedite their actions.
12 “Huh!”: GEE
This clue represents an interjection or exclamation used to convey surprise, disbelief, or mild irritation. The answer is “GEE.” “Gee” is an informal exclamation often used as a substitute for stronger expressions of surprise or frustration.
15 Some portals: DOORS
This clue refers to a type of entrance or exit that allows passage between spaces. The answer is “DOORS.” Doors are common portals found in buildings and structures that can be opened or closed to provide access or separation between rooms or areas.
19 Lawn tool: RAKE
This clue hints at an implement or tool used for maintaining and grooming lawns. The answer is “RAKE.” A rake is a gardening tool with a long handle and a row of tines or teeth used to gather and remove leaves, debris, or grass cuttings from lawns or other surfaces. It is commonly used for raking leaves and leveling the soil.
21 Cheer syllable: RAH
This clue refers to a vocalization often used in cheering or expressing support. The answer is “RAH.” “Rah” is a cheer syllable commonly used to show enthusiasm, encouragement, or school spirit during sporting events or other occasions.
24 “I don’t believe you!”: LIAR
This clue represents a phrase or exclamation expressing disbelief or skepticism towards someone’s statement. The answer is “LIAR.” When someone says “I don’t believe you” or accuses someone of being a liar, it implies that they doubt the truthfulness or accuracy of the person’s words.
25 Silicon __: Israel’s counterpart to California’s Silicon Valley: WADI
This clue refers to a geographic area known for its concentration of high-tech companies and innovation, similar to California’s Silicon Valley. The answer is “WADI.” Wadi is a term used to describe a dry riverbed or valley found in desert regions. In the context of the clue, “Silicon Wadi” refers to the area in Israel, particularly around Tel Aviv, that has become a hub for technology companies and startups.
27 Opinion survey: POLL
This clue describes a method of gathering information or collecting data on people’s opinions, typically through questioning or surveying. The answer is “POLL.” A poll is a systematic collection of data or feedback from a group of individuals regarding their opinions, preferences, or experiences. It is commonly conducted to gauge public opinion or gather insights for various purposes, such as market research or political analysis.
28 Parched: ARID
This clue represents a state or condition of extreme dryness or lack of moisture. The answer is “ARID.” When an area or climate is described as “arid,” it means it is very dry and receives minimal rainfall, resulting in limited vegetation and water scarcity.
29 Cheese partner: MAC
This clue refers to a common pairing or combination involving cheese. The answer is “MAC.” “Mac” is short for macaroni, and when combined with cheese, it refers to macaroni and cheese, a popular dish made with cooked macaroni pasta and melted cheese sauce. Mac and cheese is a comfort food enjoyed by many.
32 Where teens are treated like royalty?: PROM COURTS
This clue hints at a specific event or tradition where teenagers are given special recognition and attention. The answer is “PROM COURTS.” Prom is a formal dance or social event typically held for high school students near the end of the academic year. Prom courts are groups or individuals selected as representatives of their class or school, often including a prom king and queen, who are treated with ceremonial importance and honor during the prom festivities.
34 Richardson of “The Afterparty”: SAM
This clue refers to an actor or actress who appears in the show or movie “The Afterparty.” The answer is “SAM.” Unfortunately, without additional context or information, it is not possible to determine the specific Richardson being referenced.
36 Academic: MOOT
This clue describes a term often used in academic or legal contexts. The answer is “MOOT.” In academic discussions or debates, the term “moot” is often used to refer to a point or question that is open for discussion but has no practical significance or impact on the outcome. It implies that the topic is theoretical or hypothetical and lacks real-world relevance.
37 Concerning: AS TO
This clue represents a phrase or expression that indicates the topic or subject being discussed. The answer is “AS TO.” When something is described or mentioned “as to” a particular matter, it means the discussion pertains to that specific aspect or regards that particular issue.
38 Bughouse chess, but not classic chess: TEAM GAME
This clue refers to a specific variation of chess that involves teams, unlike traditional or classic chess. The answer is “TEAM GAME.” Bughouse chess, also known as double chess, is a variant of chess played by two teams of two players each. The unique aspect of bughouse chess is that captured pieces can be passed to teammates, who can then introduce them back into the game on their own board. It is a fast-paced and dynamic form of chess.
39 Hibernation spot: LAIR
This clue describes a location where certain animals seek shelter and rest during hibernation. The answer is “LAIR.” A lair refers to a secluded or protected place where animals, such as bears or other hibernating creatures, find refuge and spend extended periods in a state of dormancy during the winter months.
40 Crave: WANT
This clue represents a verb that expresses a strong desire or longing for something. The answer is “WANT.” When someone craves something, they have a strong urge or intense desire for it, indicating a longing or yearning for a particular object, experience, or outcome.
41 Org. with carts and drivers: PGA
This clue refers to an organization associated with golf and the professionals who play the sport. The answer is “PGA.” PGA stands for the Professional Golfers’ Association, which is a well-known sports organization responsible for organizing and overseeing professional golf tournaments, as well as providing education and support to golf professionals. The PGA Tour features professional golfers competing on various golf courses worldwide, with players utilizing golf carts and being driven by caddies during tournaments.
44 Barak of Israel: EHUD
This clue refers to a prominent figure in Israeli politics named Barak. The answer is “EHUD.” Ehud Barak is an Israeli politician and former military leader who served as the Prime Minister of Israel from 1999 to 2001. He also held various other positions in the Israeli government and is known for his contributions to Israeli defense and security.
45 “Let us!”: CAN WE
This clue represents a phrase or expression indicating a request or proposal for a group to do something together. The answer is “CAN WE.” When someone says “Can we,” they are asking if it is possible for the group to engage in a particular activity or take a certain course of action collectively.
47 __ goal: bit of self-sabotage: OWN
This clue describes an action or behavior that leads to self-sabotage or undermines one’s own progress. The answer is “OWN.” When someone “owns” a goal, it means they take responsibility for it and are fully committed to achieving it. However, in the context of the clue, an “own goal” refers to a situation in sports (particularly in soccer) where a player accidentally scores a goal for the opposing team, often due to an error or misjudgment. It can metaphorically represent self-sabotage or unintentionally working against one’s own interests.
48 iOS personal avatar: MEMOJI
This clue refers to a feature or application on iOS devices that allows users to create and customize personal avatars. The answer is “MEMOJI.” Memoji is a feature introduced by Apple for their iOS devices, such as iPhones and iPads. It enables users to create personalized avatars that resemble themselves or express their individuality through various customizable features, including facial expressions, hairstyles, accessories, and more.
49 Gridiron number: ELEVEN
This clue refers to a numerical value associated with a specific context or sport. The answer is “ELEVEN.” In American football, each team typically has eleven players on the field during a game. Therefore, “eleven” is the gridiron number representing the total number of players participating in a given play.
52 European boot?: ITALY
This clue plays on the shape of a geographical region resembling a boot and is associated with a specific country. The answer is “ITALY.” Italy is a country located in southern Europe and is often depicted as a boot-shaped peninsula on maps due to its distinctive geographic shape.
53 Wasn’t fresh, in a way: STANK
This clue describes a state or condition of something not being fresh or having an unpleasant odor. The answer is “STANK.” “Stank” is the past tense of the verb “stink,” which means to emit a foul or unpleasant smell. When something “stanks,” it implies that it has a strong and offensive odor, indicating a lack of freshness or cleanliness.
55 Fresh: ANEW
This clue describes a state or condition of being new or starting again. The answer is “ANEW.” When something is “fresh” or “anew,” it means it is recently created, renewed, or in a state of beginning or restart.
57 Nail polish brand: OPI
This clue refers to a specific brand of nail polish. The answer is “OPI.” OPI is a well-known and popular brand that specializes in nail lacquers and other nail care products. They offer a wide range of colors and finishes, and their nail polishes are recognized for their quality and durability.
58 Bug: IRK
This clue represents a verb that describes a feeling of annoyance or irritation. The answer is “IRK.” When someone or something “bugs” or “irks” a person, it means they cause frustration, bother, or provoke a negative reaction.
59 “We Don’t Talk About Bruno” songwriter __-Manuel Miranda: LIN
This clue refers to a songwriter associated with the song “We Don’t Talk About Bruno.” The answer is “LIN.” Lin-Manuel Miranda is an American composer, lyricist, playwright, and actor known for his contributions to musical theater. He is the songwriter behind the hit Broadway musical “Hamilton” and has been involved in various other notable projects.
60 Connection: TIE
This clue represents a noun that signifies a link, bond, or association between things or people. The answer is “TIE.” A tie is a connection or relationship that binds or brings things together. It can refer to various types of connections, such as emotional, professional, or interpersonal relationships.
61 Geological span: EON
This clue refers to a specific timeframe in geological history. The answer is “EON.” In geology, an eon is the largest division of time, representing an extremely long and indefinite period. Eons are used to categorize and describe the vast timescales of Earth’s geological history, such as the Precambrian eon and the Phanerozoic eon.
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