53 Across

NYT Daily ? September 21, 2025

Self-love

Answer:

EGO

Hint:

Think of the part of your personality that seeks recognition and can sometimes overshadow humility—Freud might mention it.

Explanation:

"Self-love" hints at ego because the ego is often tied to self-perception and confidence. In psychology, it represents the part of the mind focused on identity and self-worth, which can be seen as a form of self-love. The clue plays on the idea that a healthy ego involves valuing oneself, though it can also carry a negative connotation when overinflated. It’s a straightforward definition with no hidden wordplay—just a direct link between the concept and the term.

More Clues from This Puzzle

15 Down

5 letters

Make a big step, perhaps

25 Across

4 letters

Pro ___

32 Across

9 letters

Kicked off, as a business

51 Across

3 letters

Small square

General solving tip

Location/language tags (in Paris, in México, in Roma) often want an answer in that language. Try the basic word in French/Spanish/Italian, confirmed by crosses.

More tips → General Hints