123 Across

NYT Daily • September 7, 2025

Beat one’s chest

Answer:

BRAG

Hint:

Think of a boastful way to show off your achievements, often done loudly or with exaggerated pride. It starts with a sound a donkey might make.

Explanation:

Beat one’s chest" hints at the answer "BRAG" by referencing the boastful behavior often associated with showing off or drawing attention to oneself. The phrase plays on the literal act of thumping your chest—a gesture tied to pride or arrogance—as well as the figurative meaning of bragging. It’s a straightforward clue where the action (beating the chest) mirrors the definition of the word. Think of someone puffing themselves up to impress others.

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