37 Across

NYT Daily ? September 18, 2025

Heart-pumping stuff?

Answer:

PLASMA

Hint:

Think of the liquid part of blood that carries cells, often donated alongside platelets—it’s not red or white, but still essential.

Explanation:

"Heart-pumping stuff" plays on two meanings. First, it hints at blood, which the heart pumps—plasma is the liquid part of blood. Second, "pumping" can also suggest excitement or energy, but the real trick is focusing on the biological side. The clue cleverly misdirects with the word "stuff" to keep it light while pointing straight to plasma.

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General solving tip

A question mark usually flags wordplay or a non-literal reading. Expect a pun, a twist, or a definition that's one step removed from the surface meaning.

More tips → General Hints