17 Across

NYT Daily ? September 6, 2025

Animal that’s born with a full set of teeth

Answer:

SHARK

Hint:

This apex predator is known for its cartilaginous skeleton and can grow and replace its teeth continuously throughout its life. Often found in the ocean, it’s a key part of many marine ecosystems.

Explanation:

This clue plays on a surprising fact about sharks—they’re one of the few animals born with a complete set of teeth, ready to hunt right away. The wording is straightforward with no hidden wordplay, just a direct biological trait that points to the answer. If you know that sharks are unique in this way, the answer clicks immediately. Otherwise, it’s a fun bit of trivia that makes the clue memorable.

More Clues from This Puzzle

31 Down

4 letters

Some farm sounds

45 Down

5 letters

Unprecedented

52 Down

4 letters

Verb before lips and palms

13 Across

14 letters

Swing states?

General solving tip

'Perhaps,' 'maybe,' or 'e.g.' usually signal an example, not the category name. You're looking for one member of a broader set.

More tips → General Hints