61 Across

NYT Daily • August 6, 2025

Regular fixed compensation

Answer:

BASEPAY

Hint:

"Here’s a helpful hint for the clue "Regular fixed compensation": "It's the starting salary before bonuses or overtime." This hint guides the solver toward the concept of a standard wage without directly giving away "BASEPAY." It’s easier than the original clue but still requires some thought to connect the idea to the answer."

Explanation:

Clue: "Regular fixed compensation" Answer: "BASEPAY" Explanation: The clue is a straightforward definition where "regular fixed compensation" directly describes "base pay." In employment terms, "base pay" refers to the standard, fixed salary an employee receives before any additional bonuses, overtime, or incentives.