Here is the complete list of clues and answers for the Tuesday March 7th 2023, LA Times crossword puzzle.
ACROSS
- Eucalyptus eater : KOALA
A koala is a small marsupial native to Australia that is known for its diet of eucalyptus leaves. Eucalyptus leaves are toxic to many other animals, but koalas have evolved to be able to digest them. Koalas have a specialized digestive system that allows them to break down the toxic compounds in eucalyptus leaves and extract the nutrients they need to survive. Koalas are often called “koala bears” because of their teddy bear-like appearance, but they are not actually bears.
- “Oh, come on!” : PSHAW
“Pshaw” is an exclamation that is used to express disbelief or disapproval. It can be used in response to something that is seen as ridiculous, foolish, or absurd. The word is believed to have originated as an expression of disgust or contempt, and it has been in use since at least the early 19th century. Other similar interjections include “pish” and “tush.”
- Chutzpah : GALL
Chutzpah is a Yiddish word that is used to describe someone who has audacity or nerve. It can refer to someone who has the confidence to do something that others might consider impossible or foolhardy. The word is often used in a positive sense to describe someone who has a strong sense of self-assurance and is not afraid to take risks.
- Baltimore’s __ Harbor : INNER
Inner Harbor is a historic seaport in Baltimore, Maryland, USA. It is known for its scenic waterfront views, shopping, dining, and entertainment options. The Inner Harbor was once a bustling center of shipping and industry, but today it is a major tourist destination and cultural hub.
- Like baggy pants : LOOSE
Something that is loose is not tight or constricting. Baggy pants are pants that are intentionally designed to be loose-fitting and comfortable. They are often associated with hip-hop fashion and were popularized in the 1990s.
- Off-Broadway award : OBIE
The Obie Awards are annual awards that recognize excellence in Off-Broadway and Off-Off-Broadway theatre. The awards were first presented in 1956 and are named after the statuette that is given to winners. The Obie Awards are considered to be one of the highest honors in the theatre industry.
- *Whisky with ice, say : SCOTCH ON THE ROCKS
“Scotch on the rocks” is a common way of ordering Scotch whisky with ice. The phrase “on the rocks” means that the drink is served over ice cubes. Some people believe that adding ice to whisky can dilute the flavor, while others enjoy the way that the melting ice changes the taste of the drink.
- Mailed : SENT
To mail something means to send it through the postal service or other delivery service. Mailing is a common way of sending letters, packages, and other items to people who are not nearby. In the age of digital communication, mailing has become less common, but it is still an important way of sending physical items.
- Molecule part : ATOM
An atom is the basic unit of a chemical element. It is the smallest unit of matter that retains the chemical properties of an element. Atoms are made up of a nucleus, which contains protons and neutrons, and electrons, which orbit the nucleus. Different elements have different numbers of protons in their nuclei, which determines their chemical properties.
- Wild West search parties : POSSES
In the American Wild West, a posse was a group of citizens who were deputized to help law enforcement. Posse members were often called upon to track down criminals, search for missing persons, or help maintain order during times of unrest. Posse members were typically armed and would ride on horseback to cover more ground during their search. The posse system was often used in rural areas where there was a lack of formal law enforcement.
- Ballpark fig. : EST
“Est” is an abbreviation for “estimate.” In a ballpark context, “est” can refer to the estimated attendance at a sporting event. This figure is often announced during the game to give fans an idea of how many people are in the stadium. The estimate can also be used to predict revenue from ticket sales and concessions.
- Rubella spot, familiarly : MEASLE
A measles spot is a red, raised spot that appears on the skin as a symptom of measles, a highly contagious viral disease. Rubella, also known as German measles, is a milder viral illness that can also cause a rash of small, red spots. The spots can appear on the face, trunk, and limbs, and they are often accompanied by a fever and other symptoms.
- *Course for a first-year student, maybe : INTRO CLASS
An intro class is a course that is designed to introduce students to a particular subject or field of study. Intro classes are often taken by first-year students who are exploring different majors and areas of interest. Intro classes are typically less advanced than upper-level courses and may cover foundational concepts, theories, and practices.
- Sunny spot for a potted plant : LEDGE
A ledge is a narrow horizontal surface that protrudes from a vertical surface, such as a wall or cliff. In a home or office, a ledge can be a great spot for a potted plant because it provides a sunny location that is elevated off the ground. Ledges can be found in many different areas of a building, such as windowsills, mantles, or shelves.
- Monopoly cube : DIE
A die is a small, cubic object with six faces, each of which is marked with a different number of dots or pips. Dice are often used in games of chance, such as Monopoly, to determine the outcome of certain actions. In Monopoly, players roll two dice to determine how many spaces they move their game piece on the board.
- P-like Greek letter : RHO
Rho is the 17th letter of the Greek alphabet. It is similar in shape to the letter “P” in the English alphabet, but it is pronounced differently. Rho is used in mathematics, science, and engineering to represent various mathematical concepts, such as density, resistivity, and correlation coefficients.
- Sunblock letters : SPF
SPF stands for “sun protection factor,” which is a measure of the amount of protection that a sunscreen or sunblock provides against harmful UV rays from the sun. Sunscreens with higher SPF ratings provide more protection against sunburn, skin aging, and skin cancer. SPF is an important factor to consider when choosing a sunscreen.
- The Bee __: “Saturday Night Fever” group : GEES
The Bee Gees were a popular music group that formed in the 1950s and gained widespread fame in the 1970s with their disco hits. The group consisted of three brothers from England: Barry, Robin, and Maurice Gibb. The Bee Gees are best known for their soundtrack to the movie “Saturday Night Fever,” which included hits such as “Stayin’ Alive” and “How Deep Is Your Love.”
- Fretting : IN A STEW
To be “in a stew” is to be excessively worried or anxious about something. This expression originated in the 1500s and comes from the idea of a pot of stew that is constantly being stirred and simmered, suggesting a state of agitation or anxiety.
- Tastefully stylish : ELEGANT
Something that is elegant is tastefully stylish and refined. This term can be used to describe a wide range of things, such as clothing, furniture, architecture, or behavior. An elegant design is often simple, harmonious, and balanced, with a sense of grace and sophistication.
- Pixar clownfish : NEMO
Nemo is the name of the clownfish protagonist in the 2003 animated film “Finding Nemo,” which was produced by Pixar Animation Studios. The movie follows the adventures of Nemo, who gets separated from his father and has to navigate the dangers of the ocean to find his way back home.
- Hi-__ monitor : RES
A hi-res monitor is a high-resolution computer monitor that displays images and text with high levels of detail and clarity. The term “hi-res” is short for “high resolution,” which refers to the number of pixels that the monitor can display. The higher the resolution, the more detailed and sharp the images will appear on the screen.
- Dot or rom follower : -COM
The suffix “-com” can be added to the end of many different words to create new words that refer to a company or organization that is involved in a particular field or industry. For example, “dot-com” refers to companies that conduct business primarily over the internet, while “rom-com” refers to romantic comedy movies.
- Untruth : LIE
A lie is a deliberate false statement that is intended to deceive someone. Lies can take many different forms, such as outright falsehoods, exaggerations, or omissions of important details. Lying is generally considered to be unethical and can have serious consequences in personal and professional relationships.
- Tiling job supply : GROUT
Grout is a material that is used to fill the gaps between tiles in a tiling job. Grout is typically made from a mixture of cement, water, and sand, and it can be tinted to match the color of the tiles. Grout serves both a functional and an aesthetic purpose, helping to hold the tiles in place and creating a smooth, finished surface.
- *Decathlete who throws a metal ball : SHOT-PUTTER
A shot-putter is an athlete who competes in the track and field event known as the shot put. The shot put involves throwing a heavy metal ball as far as possible, with the athlete who throws the farthest distance being declared the winner. Shot putters are typically strong and powerful athletes who combine speed, technique, and strength to achieve their throws.
- [Is this microphone working?] : TAP TAP
The phrase “tap tap” is often used to check the functionality of a microphone or sound system. By tapping on the microphone or making a tapping sound into it, the user can test whether the microphone is picking up sound and transmitting it through the speakers.
- Tire inflation abbr. : PSI
PSI stands for “pounds per square inch,” which is a unit of pressure that is commonly used to measure tire inflation. The recommended PSI for a particular tire can vary depending on the size of the tire, the weight of the vehicle, and other factors. Proper tire inflation is important for safety, fuel efficiency, and tire longevity.
- Vietnamese sandwich: BANH MI
Banh mi is a type of Vietnamese sandwich that typically consists of a baguette-style bread, filled with a variety of ingredients such as meat, vegetables, herbs, and sauces. Banh mi has become popular in many countries around the world and can be found in many Vietnamese restaurants and food trucks.
- Donburi grain: RICE
Donburi is a Japanese rice bowl dish that typically consists of a bowl of rice topped with meat, vegetables, and other ingredients. The rice used in donburi is typically short-grain Japanese rice, which is sticky and has a slightly sweet flavor.
- Black-eyed __: PEAS
Black-eyed peas are a type of legume that are commonly used in Southern cuisine. They are typically small and round, with a black spot on one end. Black-eyed peas are often used in stews, soups, and salads, and are a good source of protein, fiber, and other nutrients.
- Trivial distance, or what can be paired, in order, with the starts of the answers to the starred clues: A HOP, SKIP AND A JUMP
The phrase “a hop, skip, and a jump” is used to describe a very short distance, typically one that can be covered in a few quick steps. In the context of the crossword puzzle, “a hop, skip, and a jump” is also a clue that hints at the fact that the first words of each starred clue can be paired in order to form this phrase.
- Fiery volcanic output: LAVA
Lava is molten rock that is expelled by a volcano during an eruption. When lava cools and solidifies, it can form different types of igneous rock, such as basalt or pumice. Lava can be very dangerous and destructive, as it can flow quickly and cover large areas, destroying everything in its path.
- Top-tier: ELITE
The term “elite” is used to describe the most powerful, influential, or skilled members of a particular group or society. The elite are often seen as a privileged class with access to resources, opportunities, and privileges that are not available to the general population. The concept of the elite is often associated with issues of power, inequality, and social justice.
- Educator Montessori: MARIA
Maria Montessori was an Italian physician and educator who developed the Montessori method of education. This approach emphasizes student-centered learning, self-directed activity, and hands-on, experiential learning. Montessori believed that children have a natural desire to learn and that education should be tailored to their individual needs and interests.
- Caesar’s “vidi”: I SAW
The Latin phrase “veni, vidi, vici” (“I came, I saw, I conquered”) is often attributed to Julius Caesar, one of the most famous military commanders in ancient Rome. The phrase is believed to refer to Caesar’s quick victory over the king of Pontus in 47 BCE, and it has since become a popular expression of triumph or success.
- Sport with clay targets: SKEET
Skeet shooting is a sport that involves shooting clay targets that are launched into the air at high speeds. The targets are typically launched from two different directions, and the shooter must hit as many targets as possible while moving through a series of stations. Skeet shooting requires a combination of skill, accuracy, and speed, and is enjoyed by many people around the world as a recreational activity.
“Nudges” is a verb that refers to the act of pushing someone or something gently, often with the goal of getting their attention or encouraging them to take action. “Prods” is a synonym for “nudges,” and can also refer to gently pushing or urging someone to do something. In both cases, the action is typically done with the intent of helping or encouraging someone, rather than forcing or pressuring them. Nudges or prods can be physical or metaphorical, and can be used in a wide range of contexts, from encouraging a hesitant friend to speak up in a meeting, to urging a child to finish their homework, to prompting a co-worker to complete a task on time.
DOWN
1 Foil-wrapped Hershey’s chocolate: KISS – Hershey’s KISSES are small, bite-sized chocolates made by the Hershey Company. They are known for their unique shape, which resembles a small drop or a Hershey’s kiss. The chocolates are wrapped in foil, which is often brightly colored and decorated with various designs, making them a popular choice for gifts or holiday treats.
2 __ and for all: ONCE – This phrase is often used to indicate that something is happening or has happened for the final time. For example, “I’m quitting smoking once and for all,” or “I’m going to clean my room once and for all.”
3 Mystery writer, briefly?: ANON – “ANON” is a short form of “anonymous,” which means that the identity of the person is unknown or withheld. In the context of a mystery writer, “ANON” could refer to an author who writes under a pseudonym or whose true identity is unknown.
4 Pen pal product: LETTER – A letter is a written or printed message that is usually sent by mail. In the context of a pen pal, a letter is a means of communication between two people who are often located in different parts of the world. Pen pals typically exchange letters on a regular basis, sharing their thoughts, experiences, and cultural backgrounds.
5 Curved shape: ARC – An arc is a curved shape or a segment of a circle. It can be found in various contexts, such as in mathematics, architecture, or design. For example, an arch in a building or a bridge is a type of arc.
6 “The __ thickens!”: PLOT – This phrase is often used to describe a situation in which a mystery or problem becomes more complex or difficult to solve. It is commonly used in literature, television, and film to create suspense and intrigue. For example, if a detective discovers a new clue that leads them in a completely different direction, they might exclaim, “The plot thickens!”
7 California wine valley: SONOMA – Sonoma Valley is located in Northern California and is known for its wine production. The region is home to numerous vineyards and wineries, producing a wide variety of wines, including Chardonnay, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Noir.
8 Chaotic yet appealing person: HOT MESS – “Hot mess” is a slang term used to describe a person who appears disorganized, chaotic, or emotionally unstable, but who is also perceived as attractive or charismatic. It is often used in a playful or affectionate way, to describe someone who is charming despite their flaws.
9 Blonde shade: ASH – Ash blonde is a hair color that is characterized by its cool, muted tones. It is a lighter shade of blonde that is often achieved through a combination of bleach and toner, and is sometimes referred to as “platinum blonde.”
10 Cries: WEEPS – To weep is to cry or shed tears, often as a result of sadness, pain, or strong emotion. It can also be used to describe the sound of someone crying, as in “I could hear her weeping in the next room.”
11 Slangy zero: GOOSE EGG – “Goose egg” is a slang term for zero. It is commonly used in sports to describe a score of zero, such as “The team ended the game with a goose egg.” The term “goose egg” is thought to have originated from the shape of a zero, which resembles a goose egg.
12 Pre-K basics: ABCS – The ABCs are the basic building blocks of reading and writing. They are the letters of the alphabet, which are typically taught to children in their early years of education. Learning the ABCs is considered a fundamental step in the development of literacy.
13 Take a shine to: LIKE – “Take a shine to” is an idiomatic expression that means to develop a liking or fondness for someone or something. For example, “I really took a shine to that new person in the office” means that the speaker developed a liking for the new person.
14 __ is more: LESS – “Less is more” is a phrase that suggests that simplicity and minimalism are often better than excess or extravagance. It is often used in design and fashion, as well as in other areas such as writing and communication. The phrase is attributed to the architect Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, who believed that simplicity was the ultimate form of sophistication.
19 Actress Teri: HATCHER – Teri Hatcher is an American actress who is best known for her role as Susan Mayer on the television series “Desperate Housewives.” She has also appeared in numerous films and television shows throughout her career, including “Lois & Clark: The New Adventures of Superman” and “Tomorrow Never Dies.”
20 Breadbasket item: ROLL – A roll is a small, round piece of bread that is often served as a side dish or used as the base for a sandwich. Rolls can be made from a variety of breads, such as white, wheat, or sourdough, and can be flavored with herbs or spices.
25 Arrange by color, say: SORT – To sort is to arrange items into groups based on certain criteria. In this context, “arrange by color” means to sort items based on their color, such as sorting a pile of shirts by their color.
27 Characteristic: ASPECT – An aspect is a particular feature or characteristic of something. For example, “The most important aspect of this project is its sustainability” means that sustainability is the most important feature of the project.
28 Naming names, briefly: ID’ING – “ID’ing” is a shortened form of “identifying,” which means to name or recognize someone or something. In this context, “naming names” means to identify or specify particular individuals or groups.
29 Bay Area NFLer: NINER – “Niner” is a nickname for the San Francisco 49ers, a professional football team based in the San Francisco Bay Area. The nickname “Niners” comes from the team’s name, which is a reference to the California Gold Rush of 1849.
30 Spanish “I love you”: TE AMO – “Te amo” is a Spanish phrase that means “I love you.” It is a common way to express love and affection in Spanish-speaking cultures. The phrase can be used between romantic partners, family members, or close friends.
31 Most shameful: LOWEST – “Lowest” is a comparative adjective that describes the least desirable or honorable option or action. It can refer to a wide range of situations, from personal behavior to societal issues.
33 Gave out, as cards: DEALT – To “deal” cards is to distribute them to players in a card game. The term can also be used more broadly to refer to the distribution of other items, such as goods or services.
34 Wish-granter in Aladdin’s lamp: GENIE – In the story of Aladdin, a genie is a magical being that lives inside a lamp and can grant wishes to the person who releases them from the lamp. The genie is often depicted as a powerful and sometimes mischievous character.
35 Perfume compound: ESTER – An ester is a type of organic compound that is often used in the production of perfumes and fragrances. Esters are known for their sweet, fruity scent and can be found in a variety of natural and synthetic fragrances.
39 Went belly-up: FLOPPED – To “flop” or “go belly-up” means to fail or be unsuccessful, often in a dramatic or sudden way. The term is commonly used to describe business ventures or creative projects that do not meet expectations.
42 Lefty: SOUTHPAW – “Southpaw” is a term used to describe a left-handed person, particularly in sports. The origin of the term is unclear, but it is thought to come from the position of a baseball diamond, where the pitcher’s mound is to the south.
44 Kangaroo Island birds: EMUS – Emus are large flightless birds that are native to Australia. They are known for their distinctive appearance, which includes long necks and legs, and shaggy feathers. Kangaroo Island is an island off the coast of South Australia, known for its diverse wildlife.
47 Marker brand: SHARPIE – Sharpie is a brand of permanent markers that are known for their bold, long-lasting ink. Sharpies come in a variety of colors and sizes and are used for a wide range of purposes, from labeling to art projects.
51 Scottish hats: TAMS – A tam or tam o’shanter is a type of Scottish hat that is often worn with traditional Highland dress. Tams are typically made of wool and have a pom-pom on top. They are sometimes worn as a fashion accessory outside of Scottish culture.
53 Morphine, for one: OPIATE – Opiates are a class of drugs that are commonly used to relieve pain. They work by binding to specific receptors in the brain and spinal cord, which can lead to feelings of euphoria and sedation in addition to pain relief.
54 Container near a cash register: TIP JAR – A tip jar is a container typically found near a cash register in a restaurant or other service-based business. Customers can leave extra money as a tip for their server or other staff members.
56 Colorado’s __ Peak: PIKES – Pikes Peak is a mountain located in the Rocky Mountains of Colorado. It is one of the most famous peaks in the United States and is known for its stunning views and challenging hiking trails.
58 Indonesian island: BALI – Bali is an island located in Indonesia and is known for its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture. It is a popular tourist destination and is home to many temples, art galleries, and other cultural attractions.
59 “I got it!” cries: AHAS – “Aha!” is an exclamation that is often used to express a sudden realization or understanding. It can also be used more broadly to indicate success or triumph.
60 __ Scotia: NOVA – Nova Scotia is a province located in eastern Canada. It is known for its rugged coastline, historic landmarks, and strong Scottish and Acadian heritage.
62 Tech news site: C|NET – C|Net is a technology news website that provides up-to-date coverage of the latest gadgets, software, and tech trends. It also provides product reviews and other resources for tech enthusiasts and professionals.
64 Continental currency: EURO – The euro is the currency used by many countries in the European Union. It was introduced in 1999 and is now used by more than 300 million people across the continent.
65 Surrounded by: AMID – “Amid” is a preposition that means in the middle of or surrounded by. It is often used to describe a situation where something is happening or existing in the midst of other things.
66 Mani-pedi spots: SPAS – Spas are establishments that offer a range of health and beauty treatments, such as massages, facials, and manicures/pedicures. They are often seen as a place to relax and unwind from the stresses of daily life.
68 Category: ILK – “Ilk” is a term used to describe a type or category of something. It is often used to group things together based on shared characteristics or attributes.
69 Band’s sound booster: AMP – An amp, short for amplifier, is a device used to increase the volume and clarity of an audio signal. It is commonly used by musicians to amplify the sound of their instruments, such as guitars or keyboards.
Leave a Reply