38 Down

NYT Daily ? September 23, 2025

Gaping opening

Answer:

MAW

Hint:

Think of the wide, toothy mouth of a hungry predator or the dark entrance to a deep cave.

Explanation:

"Gaping opening" is a straightforward definition for "maw," which refers to a wide, gaping mouth or opening—often used to describe something large and hungry, like an animal’s jaws. The word can also imply a deep, cavernous space, making it a fitting answer for a dramatic or ominous-sounding hole. It’s a short, punchy word that crossword setters love for its vivid imagery and concise letter count.

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General solving tip

Match the clue's grammar: plural with plural, past with past. If the clue ends in 's' or uses a past-tense verb, mirror that form in the entry.

More tips → General Hints