USA Today Crossword Puzzle Answers September 02, 2024

House for some campus bros Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue House for some campus bros is FRAT. The clue "House for some campus bros" with the answer "FRAT" refers to the abbreviation for "fraternity," which is a type of social organization commonly found on college campuses in the United States.

Fraternities are often referred to as "frats" and typically consist of male students who live together and participate in various social, academic, and philanthropic activities. The term "bros" in the clue is a colloquial way to refer to male friends or brothers, which aligns with the idea of fraternity members who are often considered "brothers" within their organization.

Wild dog found Australia Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Wild dog found Australia is DINGO. The clue "Wild dog found Australia" with the answer "DINGO" refers to a type of wild dog native to Australia. The dingo is an iconic Australian species known for its distinctive appearance, often featuring a sandy or reddish coat.

Dingoes are unique because they are neither fully domesticated nor entirely wild, occupying a special place in Australia's ecosystem. The clue highlights that this wild dog is specifically found in Australia, making "DINGO" the correct and fitting answer.

"You're being really critical" Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue "You're being really critical" is HARSH. The clue "You're being really critical" with the answer "HARSH" captures the essence of someone being overly severe or unkind in their criticism. The word "HARSH" is often used to describe a manner of speaking or behavior that is unreasonably strict, severe, or unkind.

In this context, if someone is told they are being "really critical," it suggests that their words or actions are not just critical but excessively so, which aligns perfectly with the meaning of "HARSH." Therefore, "HARSH" is the appropriate answer for this clue.

Start a life in a video game Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Start a life in a video game is SPAWN. The clue "Start a life in a video game" with the answer "SPAWN" refers to a common gaming term where a character or entity is generated or brought into the game environment.

"SPAWN" is often used to describe the point where a player begins their life in the game, either at the start or after being eliminated and re-entering the game. This term is particularly associated with first-person shooters and online multiplayer games, where players "spawn" at specific locations or "spawn points" to continue playing.

Co. for whom Elwood Edwards voiced "You've got mail" Crossword Clue 3 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Co. for whom Elwood Edwards voiced "You've got mail" is AOL. The clue "Co. for whom Elwood Edwards voiced 'You've got mail'" with the answer "AOL" refers to the iconic phrase associated with America Online (AOL), one of the earliest and most popular internet service providers in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Elwood Edwards was the voice behind the famous "You've got mail" notification, which users would hear when they received a new email. This simple, yet memorable phrase became a cultural touchstone, symbolizing the early days of internet communication and the excitement of receiving digital messages.

Footballer who called soccer "The Beautiful Game" Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Footballer who called soccer "The Beautiful Game" is PELE. The clue "Footballer who called soccer 'The Beautiful Game'" with the answer "PELE" refers to the legendary Brazilian footballer Pelé, who is widely regarded as one of the greatest players of all time.

Pelé popularized the phrase "The Beautiful Game" (in Portuguese, "O Jogo Bonito") to describe the sport of soccer, emphasizing its artistry, grace, and global appeal. His exceptional skills, sportsmanship, and influence on and off the field helped elevate soccer to a worldwide phenomenon, and the phrase has since become synonymous with the sport itself.

Like an overfamiliar phrase Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Like an overfamiliar phrase is TRITE. The clue "Like an overfamiliar phrase" with the answer "TRITE" refers to something that has become clichéd or worn out due to overuse. "TRITE" describes expressions, sayings, or ideas that have lost their originality and impact because they are repeated so often.

When a phrase becomes trite, it no longer carries the same meaning or effect, as it feels stale and unoriginal. This term is often used in literature, speech, and writing to critique language that lacks freshness or creativity.

Part of a Venetian blind Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Part of a Venetian blind is SLAT. The clue "Part of a Venetian blind" with the answer "SLAT" refers to the individual horizontal or vertical pieces that make up a Venetian blind.

A "SLAT" is a thin, flat strip of material, typically made of wood, metal, or plastic, that can be adjusted to control the amount of light entering a room. By tilting the slats, you can open or close the blind to varying degrees, providing privacy or allowing in light. The design of Venetian blinds allows for both functionality and style, making slats an essential component.

Person stereotypically dressed in all black Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Person stereotypically dressed in all black is GOTH. The clue "Person stereotypically dressed in all black" with the answer "GOTH" refers to someone associated with the Gothic subculture, which is often characterized by a preference for dark, moody aesthetics.

"GOTH" individuals are typically known for wearing all-black clothing, often paired with dark makeup, distinctive accessories, and sometimes elaborate hairstyles. The Gothic subculture emerged from the post-punk music scene in the late 1970s and early 1980s, embracing a style and ethos that reflects a fascination with the darker aspects of life, including themes of melancholy, mystery, and romanticism.

Mark up, like a musical score Crossword Clue 6 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Mark up, like a musical score is NOTATE. The clue "Mark up, like a musical score" with the answer "NOTATE" refers to the act of writing or marking musical notation on a score. To "NOTATE" means to add symbols, notes, dynamics, and other musical instructions to a piece of music to guide performers on how it should be played.

This process involves carefully marking the pitch, rhythm, tempo, and expression on the sheet music, ensuring that the composer's intentions are clearly communicated to the musicians. Notation is a fundamental part of music composition and performance, allowing complex musical ideas to be preserved and shared accurately.

Sports fan watching a gam Crossword Clue 9 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Sports fan watching a gam is SPECTATOR. The clue "Sports fan watching a game" with the answer "SPECTATOR" refers to a person who attends or observes a sporting event. A "SPECTATOR" is someone who enjoys watching sports, either in person at a stadium or arena or through various media like television or streaming services.

Spectators play a crucial role in the sports experience, bringing energy, enthusiasm, and support to the event. Their reactions and involvement can add to the atmosphere and excitement of the game, making them an integral part of the sporting world.

Appliance with a lint trap Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Appliance with a lint trap is DRYER. The clue "Appliance with a lint trap" with the answer "DRYER" refers to a household appliance designed to dry clothes and other fabrics after they have been washed.

A "DRYER" typically includes a lint trap or filter that captures lint, dust, and fibers that come off the clothing during the drying process. This trap helps maintain the appliance's efficiency and prevents lint buildup, which can be a fire hazard. Regularly cleaning the lint trap is important for both the safe operation of the dryer and the effective drying of garments.

"Grace and Frankie" co-star Jane Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue "Grace and Frankie" co-star Jane is FONDA. The clue ""Grace and Frankie" co-star Jane" with the answer "FONDA" refers to Jane Fonda, an acclaimed actress who starred in the Netflix series "Grace and Frankie." In the show, Fonda plays Grace Hanson, one of the two titular characters.

Jane Fonda is renowned for her extensive career in film and television, including notable roles in movies such as "Klute," "Coming Home," and "9 to 5." Her portrayal in "Grace and Frankie" showcases her ability to deliver both dramatic and comedic performances, contributing significantly to the show's success and her continued prominence in the entertainment industry.

Involuntary muscle contraction Crossword Clue 6 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Involuntary muscle contraction is TETANY. The clue "Involuntary muscle contraction" with the answer "TETANY" refers to a medical condition characterized by intermittent or continuous involuntary muscle contractions and spasms.

Tetany often results from an imbalance in electrolytes, such as calcium or magnesium, which disrupts normal muscle function. These contractions can be painful and may affect various muscle groups in the body. Tetany can be associated with various conditions, including hypoparathyroidism, vitamin D deficiency, or other metabolic disorders.

Like something with a high center of gravity Crossword Clue 8 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Like something with a high center of gravity is TOPHEAVY. The clue "Like something with a high center of gravity" with the answer "TOPHEAVY" refers to an object or structure that is disproportionately heavy or weighted at the top compared to the bottom.

When something is "TOPHEAVY," its center of gravity is situated higher up, which can make it unstable and prone to tipping over or toppling. This characteristic is often observed in various contexts, such as in buildings with narrow bases and tall structures, vehicles with high cargo loads, or even in certain designs and arrangements where the upper portion is significantly heavier than the lower part.

Brandy in lobster thermidor Crossword Clue 6 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Brandy in lobster thermidor is COGNAC. The clue "Brandy in lobster thermidor" with the answer "COGNAC" refers to a type of brandy used in the preparation of lobster thermidor. Cognac is a specific variety of brandy that originates from the Cognac region in France.

It is made from distilled white wine and aged in oak barrels, which gives it a rich and complex flavor. In lobster thermidor, a classic French dish, Cognac is often added to enhance the sauce's depth and flavor, complementing the lobster meat and other ingredients. This inclusion of Cognac is a hallmark of the dish's luxurious and sophisticated profile.

Custardy dessert with caramel sauce Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Custardy dessert with caramel sauce is FLAN. The clue "Custardy dessert with caramel sauce" with the answer "FLAN" refers to a popular dessert known for its smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor. Flan is a type of custard that is baked in a caramel-coated mold.

After baking, it is inverted onto a plate, allowing the caramel sauce to flow over the custard. This dessert typically features a delicate balance of sweetness from the caramel and a silky custard base made from eggs, milk, and sugar. Flan is enjoyed in various cuisines around the world and is celebrated for its elegant presentation and indulgent taste.

"Hamilton" playwright ___-Manue| Miranda Crossword Clue 3 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue "Hamilton" playwright ___-Manue| Miranda is LIN. The clue ""Hamilton" playwright ___-Manuel Miranda" with the answer "LIN" refers to Lin-Manuel Miranda, the acclaimed creator and playwright of the groundbreaking musical "Hamilton."

Lin-Manuel Miranda is renowned for his innovative and influential contributions to theater, particularly for blending hip-hop with traditional musical elements in "Hamilton," which explores the life of Alexander Hamilton. His full name is Lin-Manuel Miranda, and he has received widespread acclaim for his work, including multiple awards and honors for his achievements in theater and music.

What candles signify on a birthday cake Crossword Clue 3 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue What candles signify on a birthday cake is AGE. The clue "What candles signify on a birthday cake" with the answer "AGE" refers to the tradition of placing candles on a birthday cake to represent the number of years a person has lived.

Each candle typically symbolizes one year of the individual's age, and as the candles are lit and then extinguished, it marks the celebration of another year of life. This practice is a common custom at birthday parties and serves as a visual and symbolic representation of the passage of time and the person's growth.

Nicktoon whose alter ego is Quailman Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Nicktoon whose alter ego is Quailman is DOUG. The clue "Nicktoon whose alter ego is Quailman" with the answer "DOUG" refers to the character Doug Funnie from the animated television series "Doug," which originally aired on Nickelodeon.

In the show, Doug creates a superhero alter ego named Quailman, who is characterized by wearing a pair of underpants over his regular clothes and a belt on his head as a makeshift mask. As Quailman, Doug embarks on imaginative adventures and battles fictional villains, reflecting his inner thoughts and feelings in a playful, creative way.

Light ___ feather, stiff - board Crossword Clue 3 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Light ___ feather, stiff - board is ASA. The clue "Light ___ feather, stiff - board" with the answer "ASA" refers to a specific type of lightweight, yet sturdy material. In this context, "ASA" stands for Acrylonitrile Styrene Acrylate, a type of thermoplastic known for its durability and resistance to weathering.

It is commonly used in various applications, including the production of high-quality boards and components. The phrase "Light as a feather, stiff as a board" is a common idiom describing something that is both extremely light and rigid, qualities that ASA material embodies.

Surgery prep area, for short Crossword Clue 5 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Surgery prep area, for short is PREOP. The clue "Surgery prep area, for short" with the answer "PREOP" refers to the abbreviation for "preoperative," which denotes the area or procedures related to preparing a patient for surgery.

In a medical context, "PREOP" encompasses all the preparations and assessments that occur before a surgical procedure, including evaluations, consent processes, and necessary preparations to ensure the patient is ready for the operation. This stage is crucial for minimizing risks and ensuring the safety and effectiveness of the surgical procedure.

Components in Scattergories and Boggle Crossword Clue 6 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Components in Scattergories and Boggle is TIMERS. The clue "Components in Scattergories and Boggle" with the answer "TIMERS" refers to the use of timers in these popular word games. In Scattergories, players use a timer to limit the amount of time they have to come up with words that fit specific categories, adding a sense of urgency and challenge.

Similarly, in Boggle, a timer is used to determine the duration for which players can search for words within a grid of letters. The timer helps create a fast-paced and competitive atmosphere in both games, making the gameplay more exciting and engaging.

___-com (genre with meet-cutes) Crossword Clue 3 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue ___-com (genre with meet-cutes) is ROM. The clue "___-com (genre with meet-cutes)" with the answer "ROM" refers to "ROM-com," short for "romantic comedy." This genre features a blend of romance and comedy, often including "meet-cutes," which are charming or amusing first encounters between the romantic leads.

Romantic comedies typically focus on the development of a romantic relationship through humorous situations and misunderstandings, providing both entertainment and heartwarming moments. The term "ROM-com" is widely used to describe films and TV shows that fit this genre.

Sport played on horseback Crossword Clue 4 Letters

The right answer to the crossword clue Sport played on horseback is POLO. The clue "Sport played on horseback" with the answer "POLO" refers to a team sport where players ride horses and use mallets to hit a ball into the opposing team's goal. Polo is known for its fast-paced action and requires a combination of horsemanship, strategy, and teamwork.

Each team typically consists of four players, and the game is played on a large, grassy field divided into periods called chukkas. The objective is to score goals by hitting the ball through the goalposts, and the sport is often associated with elegance and sophistication.

Monday, September 02, 2024, USA Today Crossword Puzzle Answers

Across

1 Confuse: SHAKE
7 House for some campus bros: FRAT
11 Shrug: IDK
14 Substitute: HELP
15 Italian meat sauce: BOLOGNESE
16 Sushi topping: ROE
17 Show off: PUBLISH
18 Comes to be level: EVENSOUT
20 Tax form IDs: SSNS
21 Assuage: MAKE PEACE
23 Wild dog found Australia: DINGO
24 "You're being really critical": HARSH
26 Display at a gallery: ART
27 Start a life in a video game: SPAWN
30 Gave a standing O: APPLAUDED
35 Planets' paths: ORBITS
37 Co. for whom Elwood Edwards voiced "You've got mail": AOL
38 Footballer who called soccer "The Beautiful Game": PELE
39 Kempt: RULY
40 Like an overfamiliar phrase: TRITE
42 Part of a Venetian blind: SLAT
43 Person stereotypically dressed in all black: GOTH
44 Place for a stud: NOSE
45 Mark up, like a musical score: NOTATE
47 Sports fan watching a gam: SPECTATOR
50 Appliance with a lint trap: DRYER
51 Intention: WISH
52 "Grace and Frankie" co-star Jane: FONDA
54 Involuntary muscle contraction: TETANY
57 Display at an expo: DEMO
58 Tiniest speck: ATOM
62 Like something with a high center of gravity: TOP HEAVY
64 Brandy in lobster thermidor: COGNAC
66 Craft brewery product: ALE
67 Like very pink steak: RARE
68 Quite some time: AMONTHOFSUNDAYS
69 Fight in the ring: WRESTLE
70 Give lip to: SASS
71 Stroked gently: CARESSED

Down

1 Totes close pals: BFFS
2 Feels sick: AILS
3 Custardy dessert with caramel sauce: FLAN
4 Abundantly wealthy: FLUSHWITHCASH
5 "Hamilton" playwright ___-Manue| Miranda: LIN
6 Join a contest: COMPETE
7 New perspective: FRESHPAIROFEYES
8 Party with EDM music: RAVE
9 What candles signify on a birthday cake: AGE
10 Biome north of the taiga: TUNDRA
11 Metal in rust: IRON
12 Nicktoon whose alter ego is Quailman: DOUG
13 High-fat/low-carb diet: KETO
19 "Don't slouch!": SITUP
22 Light ___ feather, stiff - board: ASA
25 Insect in a colony: SAP
26 "Chopped" host Ted: ALLEN
27 Playlist makeup: TUNES
28 Surgery prep area, for short: PREOP
29 Lessen in intensity: LETUP
31 Item in a cookware set: POT
32 Commuter's frustration: DELAY
33 Send to cloud nine: OVERJOY
34 Discourage: SHAKE
36 Prepare, like dumplings: STEAM
41 Snitch: BLOWTHEWHISTLE
46 "How strange!": ODD
48 Components in Scattergories and Boggle: TIMERS
49 ___-com (genre with meet-cutes): ROM
53 "I swear!": TRULY
54 Wild guess: ASHOTINTHEDARK
55 Sport played on horseback: POLO
56 ___ predator: APEX
57 Some recording devices: TIVOS
59 Handling the matter: ONIT
60 Narrative: WHOLEPICTURE
61 Got a 100% on: ACED
63 Org. that tows: AAA
65 Need to pay: OWE