21 Across
NYT Daily • September 3, 2025
Break in the action
Answer:
LULL
Hint:
Think of a quiet moment when the wind dies down or a conversation pauses briefly—this word captures that temporary calm.
Explanation:
Break in the action" hints at a pause or quiet moment, which is exactly what "lull" means—a temporary calm or slowdown. The word itself sounds gentle, matching the idea of things settling down, like a lull in a storm or conversation. It’s straightforward here, with no hidden wordplay—just a direct definition where the answer fits the clue’s meaning perfectly.