1 Across

NYT Daily ? October 3, 2025

Smooths out some rough edges

Answer:

SANDS

Hint:

Think of what you might use at the beach to polish a piece of driftwood or a shell over time.

Explanation:

The word "sands" can mean using sandpaper to smooth rough surfaces, which directly ties to the clue "smooths out some rough edges." It’s also a clever play on words because "sands" sounds like the plural of "sand," hinting at the action of sanding down edges. The clue keeps it simple by focusing on the literal meaning while letting the solver connect the dots.

More Clues from This Puzzle

20 Across

5 letters

They help you get a grip

33 Across

15 letters

Professional juggling act?

40 Across

4 letters

Vans alternative

49 Across

4 letters

Welcoming

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