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.

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