Sweethearts

BABES

Affectionate slang for your beloved, often used in playful or vintage romance.

"Sweethearts" is a term of endearment for romantic partners, but in crosswords, it often hints at a shorter, slangier synonym. Here, "babes" fits perfectly—it’s a casual, affectionate nickname for loved ones, especially in pop culture and everyday speech. The clue plays on the idea of informal language, where "sweethearts" and "babes" mean the same thing but with a more modern, relaxed tone. Think of how someone might greet their partner: "Hey, babe!" instead of "Hey, sweetheart!"