In the realm of crossword puzzles,
phrases and idioms often provide intriguing challenges. The New York Times crossword, known for its clever clues and intricate wordplay, frequently features such phrases. One such clue that has recently captured the attention of solvers is “Overflows with.” If you’ve been grappling with this clue, you’re in the right place for a detailed explanation.
The Clue: Overflows With
Clue: Overflows with
Answer: RUNS OVER
The answer to this clue is “RUNS OVER.” This phrase is commonly used to describe a situation where something spills or exceeds its limits, such as liquid spilling over the edge of a container or a schedule being overly packed. In the context of the crossword, it elegantly fits into the grid, making it both a challenging and satisfying solution for solvers.
Understanding the Phrase
“Runs over” is a versatile phrase that can be applied in various contexts:
- Physical Overflow: When a liquid container is overfilled and the liquid spills out, it “runs over.” For example, if you fill a cup with water beyond its rim, the water will run over.
- Time or Schedule: If an event or appointment exceeds its allotted time, it can be said to “run over.” This usage is common in discussions about meetings or schedules that extend beyond their expected duration.
- Emotional or Metaphorical Overflow: The phrase can also be used metaphorically to describe an abundance of emotions or experiences. For instance, someone might say their joy “runs over” to convey that their happiness is so great it’s almost overflowing.
Crossword Puzzle Context
In crossword puzzles, phrases like “runs over” are chosen not only for their meaning but also for how well they fit into the grid. The answer needs to match the number of spaces provided and align with intersecting clues. “Runs over” is an apt choice for a clue about overflowing because it encapsulates the essence of something exceeding its limits in a way that is both literal and figurative.
Related Crossword Clues
If you’re working through the NYT Crossword and find yourself intrigued by clues like “Overflows with,” here are some related clues and answers that might help:
- Clue: “Has a lot of”
Answer: ABOUNDS - Clue: “Overfilled with emotion”
Answer: BREATHLESS - Clue: “Spills out”
Answer: LEAKS
These related clues often share a common theme of abundance or excess, making them complementary to “runs over.”
The New York Times Crossword: A Brief History
The New York Times crossword puzzle has been a cornerstone of American culture since its introduction in 1942. Known for its clever and often challenging clues, the puzzle has evolved to include a wide range of themes and wordplay. With grids ranging from 15×15 on weekdays to larger 21×21 grids on Sundays, the puzzles offer varying levels of difficulty to engage solvers of all skill levels.
The NYT Crossword is crafted by a team of skilled constructors and editors who strive to deliver puzzles that are both entertaining and intellectually stimulating. The clues and answers often play with language in inventive ways, making each puzzle a unique experience.
Conclusion
The clue “Overflows with” in the NYT Crossword, with the answer “RUNS OVER,” exemplifies how crosswords challenge solvers to think about language and its nuances. Whether describing a physical spill, an overrun schedule, or an emotional excess, the phrase captures the essence of overflowing in a way that fits neatly into the crossword grid. As solvers work through these types of clues, they engage in a mental exercise that sharpens their cognitive skills while enjoying the playful nature of word puzzles.
