23 Across
NYT Daily ? September 23, 2025
*Gymgoer's goal, perhaps
Answer:
WASHBOARDABS
Hint:
Think of the toned midsection often showcased in fitness magazines or beach photos, named for its resemblance to a kitchen tool’s ridged surface.
Explanation:
This clue plays on the idea of a gymgoer’s fitness goal while hiding a pun. "Washboard abs" refers to a toned, rippled stomach resembling the ridges of an old-fashioned washboard used for laundry. The answer is written as one word, "WASHBOARDABS," blending the two parts together for a compact crossword fit. It’s a lighthearted way to clue a common fitness aspiration.
More Clues from This Puzzle
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