35 Across
NYT Daily ? September 11, 2025
Treats, as a sprain
Answer:
ICES
Hint:
Think of what you might wrap around an injury to reduce swelling and numb the pain—it’s often kept in the freezer.
Explanation:
The clue "Treats, as a sprain" points to "ICES" because icing is a common first-aid method for sprains to reduce swelling. The word "treats" here means "handles medically," not "gives rewards," which is a slight twist in meaning. It’s a straightforward definition with no hidden wordplay—just a direct reference to how you’d care for an injury.
More Clues from This Puzzle
General solving tip
Words like 'said,' 'reportedly,' or 'sounds like' point to homophones—an answer that sounds like another word or phrase. Read the clue aloud in your head.
More tips → General Hints