NYT Crossword Answers - Jul 16

By Zhou Zhang and Mallory Montgomery

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Across

  1. 1SmartPOSH
  2. 5SensationSMASH
  3. 10Acquisition on the big dayINLAW
  4. 15"That's a good one!"HAHA
  5. 16Galápagos island that was home to Lonesome George, the last tortoise of his subspeciesPINTA
  6. 17Who knows what preceded the Big BangNOONE
  7. 18*Yes -- three arduous onesIRONMANTRIATHLON
  8. 21February 14, informallyVDAY
  9. 22Scratch that!ITCH
  10. 23El ___CID
  11. 24Like novicesGREEN
  12. 26SpoilDEFILE
  13. 28Preceder of how, way or whereANY
  14. 29*Yes -- sometimes more than 1,000MILLIPEDE
  15. 31PatootiesBUTTS
  16. 33Little dipper?TOE
  17. 34"Tout à fait!"OUI
  18. 35TireFLAG
  19. 37*Yes -- exactly one, in common usageDIRECTFLIGHT
  20. 42First line on many a formNAME
  21. 43Common garnish in a chirashi bowlROE
  22. 44Had at present?HAS
  23. 47Article of lab wearSMOCK
  24. 50*No -- but it does have three feetYARDSTICK
  25. 53Elizabethan cursePOX
  26. 54Country that las islas Canarias are part ofESPANA
  27. 57Important blood lineAORTA
  28. 58"___ is the proper task of life": NietzscheART
  29. 59Business whose rewards program gives "Stackholder Perks"IHOP
  30. 60RavingAVID
  31. 61Question during a brainstorming session ... or of the answers to the starred cluesDOESTHISHAVELEGS
  32. 67Popular Japanese brewASAHI
  33. 68Alcohol, slangilySAUCE
  34. 69Literary heroine who says "I would always rather be happy than dignified"EYRE
  35. 70Its capital is SanaaYEMEN
  36. 71HeavensETHER
  37. 72Debugging component?DEET

Down

  1. 1Letter after upsilonPHI
  2. 2Trireme toolOAR
  3. 3Cleared, as snowSHOVELED
  4. 4"Messiah" composerHANDEL
  5. 5NeuterSPAY
  6. 6What a big hand indicates: Abbr.MIN
  7. 7Its colony can be considered one superorganismANT
  8. 8StruggleSTRIFE
  9. 9World's most populous Creole-speaking countryHAITI
  10. 10Pretty much assuredINTHEBAG
  11. 11Japanese dramaNOH
  12. 12Feline in a 2000s memeLOLCAT
  13. 13Dub ... or rubANOINT
  14. 14Fast-food restaurant that sells FrostysWENDYS
  15. 19___-pediMANI
  16. 20Oft-injured part of the knee, for shortACL
  17. 24Clock-setting std.GMT
  18. 25___ Bravo (México/Tejas border)RIO
  19. 26Certain tie scoreDEUCE
  20. 27Mince words?EDIT
  21. 30Frost piecePOEM
  22. 32Sound of dissatisfactionUGH
  23. 35Botanist's studyFLORA
  24. 36Told storiesLIED
  25. 38Business endingINC
  26. 39Roll in doughRAKEITIN
  27. 40Actress/union leader DrescherFRAN
  28. 41Symbol of spiritual insight, in HinduismTHIRDEYE
  29. 45Class ___ACT
  30. 46Music genre with "walking" bass linesSKA
  31. 47Steamy occasion?SPADAY
  32. 48LugubriousMOROSE
  33. 49Pioneers' prairie pullersOXTEAM
  34. 50HaranguesYAPSAT
  35. 51StoreSAVE
  36. 52Worked sufferinglyTOILED
  37. 55"Pipe down!"SHH
  38. 56ComposurePOISE
  39. 60AttestAVER
  40. 62___-goatSHE
  41. 63"Wait ... really?"HUH
  42. 64One of a kindACE
  43. 65Test for future Ph.D.sGRE
  44. 66Not needing anything elseSET

Crossword clues, hints, and answers

Across

  1. 1. Smart — Answer: POSH. Hint: This word often describes someone with style and sophistication! ✨
  2. 5. Sensation — Answer: SMASH. Hint: This powerful impact is sure to leave an impression! 💥
  3. 10. Acquisition on the big day — Answer: INLAW. Hint: Sometimes, a new family member joins the celebration! 🎉
  4. 15. "That's a good one!" — Answer: HAHA. Hint: This expression often signals laughter or amusement! 😂
  5. 16. Galápagos island that was home to Lonesome George, the last tortoise of his subspecies — Answer: PINTA. Hint: This island's name rhymes with a small drink you might enjoy at a cafe! 🍹
  6. 17. Who knows what preceded the Big Bang — Answer: NOONE. Hint: When pondering cosmic mysteries, sometimes the answer is simply not there! 🌌
  7. 18. *Yes -- three arduous ones — Answer: IRONMANTRIATHLON. Hint: Think of a grueling test of endurance that involves swimming, biking, and running! 🏊‍♂️
  8. 21. February 14, informally — Answer: VDAY. Hint: It’s the day for sweethearts to celebrate their love! 💕
  9. 22. Scratch that! — Answer: ITCH. Hint: Sometimes you just need to scratch the surface of discomfort! 🐾
  10. 23. El ___ — Answer: CID. Hint: Think of the classic TV series about a clever detective! 🕵️
  11. 24. Like novices — Answer: GREEN. Hint: Think of someone who is just starting out and still has a lot to learn! 🌱
  12. 26. Spoil — Answer: DEFILE. Hint: Think about how something can be tarnished or made unclean. 🚫
  13. 28. Preceder of how, way or where — Answer: ANY. Hint: Think of a word that indicates a choice, often used before questions! 🤔
  14. 29. *Yes -- sometimes more than 1,000 — Answer: MILLIPEDE. Hint: Think of those many-legged critters that count their legs in the hundreds! 🐛
  15. 31. Patooties — Answer: BUTTS. Hint: These are often humorously referenced in jokes and playful banter! 🍑
  16. 33. Little dipper? — Answer: TOE. Hint: It's something you might use to splash in a small pool! 🦶
  17. 34. "Tout à fait!" — Answer: OUI. Hint: A simple affirmation in French that shows you agree! 🇫🇷
  18. 35. Tire — Answer: FLAG. Hint: Think of a signal that can wave in the wind! 🏴
  19. 37. *Yes -- exactly one, in common usage — Answer: DIRECTFLIGHT. Hint: Think about the simplest route from point A to point B without any stops! ✈️
  20. 42. First line on many a form — Answer: NAME. Hint: What's the title that often precedes your details on a form? 📝
  21. 43. Common garnish in a chirashi bowl — Answer: ROE. Hint: This tasty addition can be found swimming in sushi dishes! 🍣
  22. 44. Had at present? — Answer: HAS. Hint: Think about what you possess right now! 🤔
  23. 47. Article of lab wear — Answer: SMOCK. Hint: It's a protective garment often worn over clothes while creating something messy! 🎨
  24. 50. *No -- but it does have three feet — Answer: YARDSTICK. Hint: It measures length, but it's not a ruler! 📏
  25. 53. Elizabethan curse — Answer: POX. Hint: It's a historical ailment that was often wished upon enemies! 🦠
  26. 54. Country that las islas Canarias are part of — Answer: ESPANA. Hint: This country is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious tapas! 🇪🇸
  27. 57. Important blood line — Answer: AORTA. Hint: This major artery is crucial for pumping blood from the heart! ❤️
  28. 58. "___ is the proper task of life": Nietzsche — Answer: ART. Hint: Consider what expresses the essence of human experience! 🎨
  29. 59. Business whose rewards program gives "Stackholder Perks" — Answer: IHOP. Hint: Think of a place famous for pancakes and breakfast treats! 🥞
  30. 60. Raving — Answer: AVID. Hint: When you're deeply enthusiastic about something, you might say you're really into it! 😄
  31. 61. Question during a brainstorming session ... or of the answers to the starred clues — Answer: DOESTHISHAVELEGS. Hint: Consider whether your idea can stand on its own! 🤔
  32. 67. Popular Japanese brew — Answer: ASAHI. Hint: This refreshing drink is often enjoyed with sushi or after a long day! 🍺
  33. 68. Alcohol, slangily — Answer: SAUCE. Hint: Think of a term used to describe a fun night out when drinks are involved! 🍹
  34. 69. Literary heroine who says "I would always rather be happy than dignified" — Answer: EYRE. Hint: Think of a strong woman who defies societal expectations in a classic novel! 📚
  35. 70. Its capital is Sanaa — Answer: YEMEN. Hint: This Middle Eastern country is known for its ancient architecture and stunning landscapes! 🌍
  36. 71. Heavens — Answer: ETHER. Hint: Think of the upper regions of the sky or atmosphere! ☁️
  37. 72. Debugging component? — Answer: DEET. Hint: This insect repellent might help debug your outdoor plans! 🦟

Down

  1. 1. Letter after upsilon — Answer: PHI. Hint: This letter is often associated with a symbol representing harmony in ancient philosophy! 🎶
  2. 2. Trireme tool — Answer: OAR. Hint: This ancient vessel needed a long pole to glide through the waves! 🚣‍♂️
  3. 3. Cleared, as snow — Answer: SHOVELED. Hint: Think about what you do to snow to make your pathway clear! ❄️
  4. 4. "Messiah" composer — Answer: HANDEL. Hint: Think of a composer famous for a particular oratorio that celebrates a holiday! 🎶
  5. 5. Neuter — Answer: SPAY. Hint: This procedure ensures that pets can't reproduce, keeping them and the environment safe! 🐾
  6. 6. What a big hand indicates: Abbr. — Answer: MIN. Hint: Think of the small measurement that often gets overlooked! 🕰️
  7. 7. Its colony can be considered one superorganism — Answer: ANT. Hint: Think of tiny builders working together in a complex society! 🐜
  8. 8. Struggle — Answer: STRIFE. Hint: Sometimes life's challenges can feel like a constant battle. ⚔️
  9. 9. World's most populous Creole-speaking country — Answer: HAITI. Hint: This Caribbean nation has a vibrant culture and is known for its unique blend of French and African influences! 🇭🇹
  10. 10. Pretty much assured — Answer: INTHEBAG. Hint: When something is guaranteed to go your way, it's often said to be a sure thing! 🎉
  11. 11. Japanese drama — Answer: NOH. Hint: This traditional form of theater showcases masked performers and ancient stories. 🎭
  12. 12. Feline in a 2000s meme — Answer: LOLCAT. Hint: Think of a playful cat that loves to make you laugh online! 😺
  13. 13. Dub ... or rub — Answer: ANOINT. Hint: This word describes a sacred act of applying oil, often seen in ceremonies. ✨
  14. 14. Fast-food restaurant that sells Frostys — Answer: WENDYS. Hint: Think of a place where you can enjoy a chilly treat alongside a classic square burger! 🍔
  15. 19. ___-pedi — Answer: MANI. Hint: This beauty treatment often involves nail polish and a little pampering! 💅
  16. 20. Oft-injured part of the knee, for short — Answer: ACL. Hint: This crucial ligament often gets the spotlight in sports injuries! 🏃‍♂️
  17. 24. Clock-setting std. — Answer: GMT. Hint: This time zone is often used as a reference for global timekeeping! 🌍
  18. 25. ___ Bravo (México/Tejas border) — Answer: RIO. Hint: This flowing body of water separates nations and is a vital lifeline! 🌊
  19. 26. Certain tie score — Answer: DEUCE. Hint: In tennis, when the score is tied at a crucial moment, it's more than just a draw! 🎾
  20. 27. Mince words? — Answer: EDIT. Hint: When you change something to make it clearer, you're not being vague! ✂️
  21. 30. Frost piece — Answer: POEM. Hint: Think of a literary work that captures beauty in a few lines! 📜
  22. 32. Sound of dissatisfaction — Answer: UGH. Hint: When you feel frustrated, this sound often escapes your lips! 😩
  23. 35. Botanist's study — Answer: FLORA. Hint: Think of a plant lover's reference guide! 🌿
  24. 36. Told stories — Answer: LIED. Hint: Sometimes, the truth is a little too hard to swallow! 😉
  25. 38. Business ending — Answer: INC. Hint: This abbreviation often signals a company's official status. 📈
  26. 39. Roll in dough — Answer: RAKEITIN. Hint: Think of how you might gather or collect something when you're banking on a big score! 💰
  27. 40. Actress/union leader Drescher — Answer: FRAN. Hint: This star is known for her distinctive voice and a hit TV show about a nanny! 🎤
  28. 41. Symbol of spiritual insight, in Hinduism — Answer: THIRDEYE. Hint: Think about a mystical vision that goes beyond ordinary sight! 👁️
  29. 45. Class ___ — Answer: ACT. Hint: Think about a performance that showcases talent and skills! 🎭
  30. 46. Music genre with "walking" bass lines — Answer: SKA. Hint: Think of a lively genre that originated in Jamaica and often gets you on your feet! 🎶
  31. 47. Steamy occasion? — Answer: SPADAY. Hint: Treat yourself to a day of relaxation and pampering! 🧖‍♀️
  32. 48. Lugubrious — Answer: MOROSE. Hint: Feeling a bit gloomy or down in the dumps? 😶‍🌫️
  33. 49. Pioneers' prairie pullers — Answer: OXTEAM. Hint: Think of strong animals that helped settlers travel across vast lands! 🐂
  34. 50. Harangues — Answer: YAPSAT. Hint: These loud and persistent talks can really get your attention! 🗣️
  35. 51. Store — Answer: SAVE. Hint: Think about what you do when you're putting something away for later! 🏦
  36. 52. Worked sufferingly — Answer: TOILED. Hint: Think of a labor-intensive task that requires effort and perseverance! 💪
  37. 55. "Pipe down!" — Answer: SHH. Hint: A quiet request often made to silence a loud environment! 🤫
  38. 56. Composure — Answer: POISE. Hint: Think about how you carry yourself with grace and confidence! 😊
  39. 60. Attest — Answer: AVER. Hint: Think of a word that means to declare something as true, often used in legal contexts! 📜
  40. 62. ___-goat — Answer: SHE. Hint: Think of a female companion to a kid in the wild! 🐐
  41. 63. "Wait ... really?" — Answer: HUH. Hint: This word expresses your surprise or disbelief, perfect for when something unexpected happens! 🤔
  42. 64. One of a kind — Answer: ACE. Hint: Think of someone who always stands out in a game! 🎴
  43. 65. Test for future Ph.D.s — Answer: GRE. Hint: This standardized assessment is often a stepping stone for aspiring graduate students! 🎓
  44. 66. Not needing anything else — Answer: SET. Hint: When all parts are in order and complete, you're good to go! 🎯

Recent NYT Crossword Answers

The last 7 days of solutions

NYT Crossword 15 July 2026NYT Crossword 14 July 2026NYT Crossword 13 July 2026NYT Crossword 12 July 2026NYT Crossword 11 July 2026NYT Crossword 10 July 2026NYT Crossword 9 July 2026

Here are the NYT Crossword answers for Thursday, July 16, 2026 — every solution for that day's 15×15 (21×21 on Sunday) puzzle, listed at the top of this page. Whether you're catching up on a puzzle you missed, settling a “what was the answer on July 16?” question, or checking a grid you finished that day, the complete clue-by-clue solution is right here. Looking for today's puzzle instead? Head to our live NYT Crossword answers page.

NYT Crossword answers for July 16, 2026

The full solution for the July 16 NYT Crossword is shown above, laid out clue by clue — every Across answer followed by every Down answer, exactly as that day's grid read. Each answer is listed separately, so you can check just the clue you were stuck on and leave the rest. This is the confirmed grid as published on Thursday, July 16.

Full NYT Crossword answer list for July 16, 2026

Every clue from the July 16 grid next to its solution — the same answers as the board above, in one plain list you can scan without tapping.

Across

#ClueAnswer
1SmartPOSH
5SensationSMASH
10Acquisition on the big dayINLAW
15"That's a good one!"HAHA
16Galápagos island that was home to Lonesome George, the last tortoise of his subspeciesPINTA
17Who knows what preceded the Big BangNOONE
18*Yes -- three arduous onesIRONMANTRIATHLON
21February 14, informallyVDAY
22Scratch that!ITCH
23El ___CID
24Like novicesGREEN
26SpoilDEFILE
28Preceder of how, way or whereANY
29*Yes -- sometimes more than 1,000MILLIPEDE
31PatootiesBUTTS
33Little dipper?TOE
34"Tout à fait!"OUI
35TireFLAG
37*Yes -- exactly one, in common usageDIRECTFLIGHT
42First line on many a formNAME
43Common garnish in a chirashi bowlROE
44Had at present?HAS
47Article of lab wearSMOCK
50*No -- but it does have three feetYARDSTICK
53Elizabethan cursePOX
54Country that las islas Canarias are part ofESPANA
57Important blood lineAORTA
58"___ is the proper task of life": NietzscheART
59Business whose rewards program gives "Stackholder Perks"IHOP
60RavingAVID
61Question during a brainstorming session ... or of the answers to the starred cluesDOESTHISHAVELEGS
67Popular Japanese brewASAHI
68Alcohol, slangilySAUCE
69Literary heroine who says "I would always rather be happy than dignified"EYRE
70Its capital is SanaaYEMEN
71HeavensETHER
72Debugging component?DEET

Down

#ClueAnswer
1Letter after upsilonPHI
2Trireme toolOAR
3Cleared, as snowSHOVELED
4"Messiah" composerHANDEL
5NeuterSPAY
6What a big hand indicates: Abbr.MIN
7Its colony can be considered one superorganismANT
8StruggleSTRIFE
9World's most populous Creole-speaking countryHAITI
10Pretty much assuredINTHEBAG
11Japanese dramaNOH
12Feline in a 2000s memeLOLCAT
13Dub ... or rubANOINT
14Fast-food restaurant that sells FrostysWENDYS
19___-pediMANI
20Oft-injured part of the knee, for shortACL
24Clock-setting std.GMT
25___ Bravo (México/Tejas border)RIO
26Certain tie scoreDEUCE
27Mince words?EDIT
30Frost piecePOEM
32Sound of dissatisfactionUGH
35Botanist's studyFLORA
36Told storiesLIED
38Business endingINC
39Roll in doughRAKEITIN
40Actress/union leader DrescherFRAN
41Symbol of spiritual insight, in HinduismTHIRDEYE
45Class ___ACT
46Music genre with "walking" bass linesSKA
47Steamy occasion?SPADAY
48LugubriousMOROSE
49Pioneers' prairie pullersOXTEAM
50HaranguesYAPSAT
51StoreSAVE
52Worked sufferinglyTOILED
55"Pipe down!"SHH
56ComposurePOISE
60AttestAVER
62___-goatSHE
63"Wait ... really?"HUH
64One of a kindACE
65Test for future Ph.D.sGRE
66Not needing anything elseSET

Hints for the July 16 puzzle

Not ready for the full answer? Here are lighter, spoiler-free nudges for that day's grid, above the solutions. The July 16 puzzle fell on a Thursday, and with the New York Times crossword that matters: the grid gets harder as the week goes on, from an easy Monday to a fiendish Saturday, with a large themed puzzle on Sunday. So a Thursday grid tells you how much misdirection to expect — and if a clue that day seemed to make no sense, the weekday is usually the reason. Use the hints for the trickiest clues, then reveal the answers above only if you need them.

Looking for a different day?

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Frequently asked questions

What were the NYT Crossword answers on July 16, 2026?

Every answer for the Thursday, July 16, 2026 NYT Crossword is listed at the top of this page — the confirmed grid as published that day.

Where can I find today's NYT Crossword answers?

Today's live puzzle is on our NYT Crossword answers today page, updated the moment each new grid goes live.

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