USA Today Crossword August 26, 2024 Puzzle Answers

Spring bloom with a bearded variety Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is IRIS. The clue "Spring bloom with a bearded variety," with the answer "IRIS," refers to a type of flower known for its vibrant colors and unique structure.

The Iris is a popular spring flower that blooms in a range of colors, including purple, blue, yellow, and white. One distinctive feature of some Iris species is their "bearded" variety, where a fuzzy, beard-like structure appears on the lower petals, known as "falls."

Piece for a single operatic voice Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is ARIA. The clue "Piece for a single operatic voice," with the answer "ARIA," refers to a solo vocal performance in an opera. An aria is a melodic and expressive piece written for one singer, allowing the performer to showcase their vocal skills and emotional depth.

It is a key moment in an opera, where the character often reveals their innermost thoughts, feelings, or desires. Arias are distinct from other musical forms in an opera, such as recitatives, which are more speech-like and narrative-driven.

Beef cut named for a New York restaurant Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is DELMONICOSTEAK. The clue "Beef cut named for a New York restaurant," with the answer "DELMONICO STEAK," refers to a specific cut of beef that originated from Delmonico's, one of the first fine dining establishments in New York City.

The Delmonico steak is a thick, boneless steak, traditionally cut from the ribeye or the short loin of the cow. It's known for its rich flavor and tenderness, often prepared with simple seasoning and cooked to perfection.

Rankings above corporals (Abbr.) Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is SGTS. The clue "Rankings above corporals (Abbr.)," with the answer "SGTS," refers to the abbreviation for "Sergeants," a military rank that is higher than the rank of corporal.

In many armed forces, including the U.S. military, a sergeant (often abbreviated as "SGT" or "SGTS" for plural) holds a position of greater responsibility and authority than a corporal. Sergeants typically oversee a small group of soldiers, providing leadership, training, and guidance.

“Shea Butter Baby” artist Lennox Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is ARI. The clue “‘Shea Butter Baby’ artist Lennox,” with the answer “ARI,” refers to Ari Lennox, an American singer and songwriter known for her soulful and smooth R&B music.

Ari Lennox gained significant attention with her hit single "Shea Butter Baby," which was released in 2019 and featured rapper J. Cole. The song, known for its sultry vocals and nostalgic vibes, became a fan favorite and helped solidify Lennox's place in the contemporary R&B scene.

Place with a carnitas or chorizo option, perhaps Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is TACOSTAND. The clue "Place with a carnitas or chorizo option, perhaps," with the answer "TACO STAND," refers to a casual food vendor that specializes in tacos, a popular Mexican dish.

A taco stand is typically a small, often outdoor establishment where you can order freshly made tacos with a variety of fillings, including carnitas (slow-cooked, seasoned pork) or chorizo (spicy pork sausage).

University with the Chile Pepper Institute Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is NEWMEXICOSTATE. The clue "University with the Chile Pepper Institute," with the answer "NEW MEXICO STATE," refers to New Mexico State University (NMSU), which is home to the renowned Chile Pepper Institute.

Located in Las Cruces, New Mexico, NMSU is a major research institution with a strong emphasis on agricultural sciences. The Chile Pepper Institute, established at the university, is dedicated to the study, research, and promotion of chile peppers.

“___ Virgin” (Gabriela Cabezon Camara novel) Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is SLUM. The clue "‘___ Virgin’ (Gabriela Cabezón Cámara novel)," with the answer "SLUM," refers to the novel "Slum Virgin" by Argentine author Gabriela Cabezón Cámara.

The novel, originally titled "La Virgen Cabeza" in Spanish, is a critically acclaimed work that explores themes of social inequality, marginalized communities, and the clash between reality and mysticism in the slums of Buenos Aires.

Like food in the “prepared foods” section Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is PREMADE. The clue "Like food in the 'prepared foods' section," with the answer "PREMADE," refers to food items that are already cooked or assembled and ready to eat or heat up.

In grocery stores or supermarkets, the "prepared foods" section typically features a variety of premade meals and dishes, such as salads, sandwiches, soups, and hot entrees. These items are convenient options for those who want a quick meal without the need for cooking from scratch.

Some Pepperidge Farm cookies Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is MILANOS. The clue "Some Pepperidge Farm cookies," with the answer "MILANOS," refers to a popular variety of cookies produced by Pepperidge Farm. Milano cookies are known for their distinctive shape and texture, featuring a layer of rich chocolate sandwiched between two delicate, buttery cookies.

These cookies have become a classic treat, appreciated for their elegant simplicity and indulgent taste. Originally inspired by European confections, Milano cookies have been a staple in the Pepperidge Farm lineup for decades, offering a refined snack that pairs well with coffee, tea, or enjoyed on their own.

McKellen who played Gandalf Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is IAN. The clue "McKellen who played Gandalf," with the answer "IAN," refers to Sir Ian McKellen, the distinguished British actor renowned for his portrayal of Gandalf in both "The Lord of the Rings" and "The Hobbit" film trilogies.

Ian McKellen brought a powerful and iconic presence to the character of Gandalf, the wise and formidable wizard in J.R.R. Tolkien's fantasy world. His performance was widely acclaimed for its depth, gravitas, and nuanced interpretation, contributing significantly to the success of the films.

City home to the Munch Museum and Vigeland Park Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is OSLO. The clue "City home to the Munch Museum and Vigeland Park," with the answer "OSLO," refers to the capital city of Norway, which is renowned for its rich cultural offerings.

The Munch Museum in Oslo is dedicated to the life and works of Edvard Munch, the famous Norwegian painter known for his iconic piece "The Scream." This museum showcases a significant collection of Munch's art, including paintings, drawings, and prints.

Condition that may involve compensatory behaviors Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is OCD. The clue "Condition that may involve compensatory behaviors," with the answer "OCD," refers to Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.

OCD is a mental health condition characterized by persistent, intrusive thoughts (obsessions) and repetitive behaviors or mental acts (compulsions) performed to alleviate the anxiety caused by these thoughts.

Twinkler in the night sky Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is STAR. The clue "Twinkler in the night sky," with the answer "STAR," refers to celestial objects that are visible from Earth and appear to twinkle in the night sky. Stars are luminous spheres of plasma held together by gravity, and they shine by emitting light through nuclear reactions occurring in their cores.

The twinkling effect, known as stellar scintillation, occurs due to the Earth's atmospheric turbulence causing the light from stars to bend and fluctuate as it reaches our eyes. This phenomenon creates the characteristic shimmering effect of stars against the dark backdrop of space.

“Shop ___ You Drop” Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is TIL. The clue "‘Shop ___ You Drop’," with the answer "TIL," refers to the title of the popular television game show "Shop 'Til You Drop." The show, which originally aired in the 1990s and 2000s, featured contestants competing in shopping-related challenges and games, often in a retail setting.

The phrase "Shop 'Til You Drop" implies a fun and frenzied experience of shopping until one can no longer continue. The abbreviation "TIL" in the clue stands for "Until," completing the phrase and hinting at the show's focus on enthusiastic and exhaustive shopping.

Coastal region of France Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is RIVIERA. The clue "Coastal region of France," with the answer "RIVIERA," refers to the French Riviera, also known as the Côte d'Azur. This renowned coastal region stretches along the Mediterranean Sea in southeastern France, from the Italian border to the city of Toulon.

The French Riviera is celebrated for its stunning beaches, luxurious resorts, and picturesque towns such as Nice, Cannes, and Monaco. It has long been a favored destination for tourists seeking sun, beauty, and glamour.

Costume Institute Benefit, familiarly Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is METGALA. The clue "Costume Institute Benefit, familiarly," with the answer "MET GALA," refers to the Metropolitan Museum of Art's annual fundraising gala in New York City.

Commonly known as the "Met Gala," this prestigious event supports the museum's Costume Institute, which is dedicated to preserving and exhibiting fashion and costume history. The Met Gala is renowned for its high-profile guest list, extravagant fashion, and thematic dress codes, often reflecting the Costume Institute's annual exhibition theme.

“Who we are” webpage Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is ABOUTUS. The clue “‘Who we are’ webpage,” with the answer "ABOUT US," refers to a section commonly found on websites that provides information about the organization or individuals behind the site.

The "About Us" page typically includes details such as the company's mission, values, history, team members, and goals. It serves to inform visitors about the background and purpose of the organization, helping to establish credibility and foster a connection with the audience.

They might be e-filed Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is TAXES. The clue "They might be e-filed," with the answer "TAXES," refers to the process of electronically filing tax returns. Taxes are financial charges imposed by governments on individuals and businesses, and filing them involves submitting detailed reports of income, deductions, and other financial information.

E-filing, or electronic filing, is a modern method that allows taxpayers to submit their tax returns online using specialized software or through government websites. This method offers several advantages, including faster processing times, immediate confirmation of receipt, and reduced risk of errors compared to traditional paper filing.

Takes home after 55-Down Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is NETS. The clue "Takes home after 55-Down," with the answer "NETS," refers to the amount of income or revenue that remains after deductions and expenses.

In the context of the puzzle, 55-Down would be a clue leading to the term "NETS," which commonly denotes the final amount of money someone receives, especially in financial and business contexts.

Passed with flying colors Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is ACED. The clue "Passed with flying colors," with the answer "ACED," refers to achieving a high level of success or excellence in a task or examination. To "ace" something means to perform exceptionally well, often receiving top marks or a perfect score.

The phrase "passed with flying colors" is an idiom that signifies not just passing but doing so with outstanding results, akin to how flags (or colors) that flutter proudly indicate victory and distinction. In academic or professional contexts, if someone has "aced" a test or project, it means they excelled and achieved remarkable success, often surpassing expectations.

Degree for many execs Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is MBA. The clue "Degree for many execs," with the answer "MBA," refers to the Master of Business Administration degree. The MBA is a graduate-level program designed to equip students with comprehensive business knowledge and management skills.

It is a highly regarded qualification among executives and professionals aiming to advance their careers in business and leadership roles. The degree covers various aspects of business management, including finance, marketing, operations, and strategy.

Type of cooking oil Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is CANOLA. The clue "Type of cooking oil," with the answer "CANOLA," refers to a popular vegetable oil derived from the seeds of the canola plant. Canola oil is widely used in cooking due to its neutral flavor, high smoke point, and heart-healthy properties.

It is low in saturated fat and contains beneficial omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which can support cardiovascular health. Canola oil is versatile and suitable for various cooking methods, including frying, baking, and sautéing. Its light taste makes it a preferred choice for many recipes where the flavor of the oil should not overpower the dish.

Guitar pioneer Paul Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is LES. The clue "Guitar pioneer Paul," with the answer "LES," refers to Les Paul, an influential American guitarist and inventor. Les Paul is renowned for his pioneering work in the development of electric guitars, particularly through his collaboration with Gibson to create the iconic Les Paul guitar model.

His innovations in guitar design and recording techniques, including multi-track recording, significantly impacted the music industry. Les Paul's contributions to music and guitar technology have left a lasting legacy, making him a celebrated figure in the world of rock and roll and popular music.

Slips into, like clothing Crossword Clue

The answer to this clue is DONS. The clue "Slips into, like clothing," with the answer "DONS," refers to the act of putting on or wearing clothing. The term "dons" means to put on an article of clothing or an accessory, such as a jacket, hat, or suit. When someone "dons" a garment, they are slipping it on or dressing themselves in it.

This verb is often used to describe the action of donning specific attire, particularly in a formal or deliberate manner. For example, one might don a uniform for a job or a costume for a special occasion, signifying the act of putting on and wearing the clothing.

Monday, August 26, 2024, USA Today Crossword Puzzle Answers

Across

1 Dashboard stat: RPM
4 Spring bloom with a bearded variety: IRIS
8 “Say it isn’t so!”: OHNO
12 Piece for a single operatic voice: ARIA
14 Mom’s sister: AUNT
15 Havana’s country: CUBA
16 Beef cut named for a New York restaurant: DELMONICOSTEAK
19 Some prayer leaders: IMAMS
20 Hit the ___ on the head: NAIL
21 Rankings above corporals (Abbr.): SGTS
23 Type of cooking oil: CANOLA
25 The “C” of UCLA, for short: CAL
27 “Shea Butter Baby” artist Lennox: ARI
28 Hubbub: ADO
29 Eight, in Spanish: OCHO
32 Baby ___: BOOMER
34 Guitar pioneer Paul: LES
35 Slips into, like clothing: DONS
37 Slushy frozen drinks: ICEES
38 Place with a carnitas or chorizo option, perhaps: TACOSTAND
41 Harm’s way: PERIL
44 Notable achievement: FEAT
45 ___ tai (rum cocktail):MAI
48 Banishes: EXILES
50 Walked heavily: TROD
52 Grocery payment method: EBT
53 Off-roader: ATV
54 Use a stool: SIT
56 Speckled horses: PINTOS
58 Luau garlands: LEIS
60 “See ya!”: TATA
63 Conversational transition: SEGUE
64 University with the Chile Pepper Institute: NEWMEXICOSTATE
67 Ho-hum: DRAB
68 ___ out (barely obtained): EKED
69 “___ Virgin” (Gabriela Cabezon Camara novel): SLUM
70 Epic tale: SAGA
71 Rice or beans, often: SIDE
72 Pack animal: ASS

Down

1 Extreme: RADICAL
2 Like food in the “prepared foods” section: PREMADE
3 Some Pepperidge Farm cookies: MILANOS
4 McKellen who played Gandalf: IAN
5 Totally destroy: RUIN
6 Quechua speakers: INCA
7 Emotionless: STOIC
8 Canadian Thanksgiving mo.: OCT
9 Shades of colors: HUES
10 Magic or Jazz performance: NBAGAME
11 Acorn producer: OAKTREE
13 Paintballs, e.g. AMMO
17 City home to the Munch Museum and Vigeland Park: OSLO
18 Big hunk of cake: SLAB
22 Knighted men: SIRS
24 Electrically flexible: ACDC
26 Pork cut: LOIN
30 Place for a horseshoe: HOOF
31 Initial stage: ONSET
33 Condition that may involve compensatory behaviors: OCD
36 Twinkler in the night sky: STAR
38 “Shop ___ You Drop”: TIL
39 Pub orders: ALES
40Perched on: ATOP
41 Loud bell sound: PEAL
42 Makes longer: EXTENDS
43 Coastal region of France: RIVIERA
45 Costume Institute Benefit, familiarly: METGALA
46 “Who we are” webpage: ABOUTUS
47 “Looks like . . .”: ITSEEMS
49 Surfer’s destination: SITE
51 Bad-mouth: DISS
55 They might be e-filed: TAXES
57 Takes home after 55-Down: NETS
59 Goodie bag contents: SWAG
61 ___ torch: TIKI
62 Passed with flying colors: ACED
65 Degree for many execs: MBA
66 Tribute poem: ODE