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.

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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