10 Across

NYT Mini • September 24, 2025

“Keep it down!”

Answer:

SHH

Hint:

This quieting sound is often paired with a finger to the lips or used in libraries to maintain silence.

Explanation:

The clue “Keep it down!” is a direct hint to the sound people make when asking for quiet. “Shh” is the common onomatopoeic word used to hush someone, often whispered or said sharply. It’s a straightforward example where the clue mimics the answer’s real-world use—no wordplay, just a natural phrase matching a familiar noise. Think of a librarian or parent shushing a loud group.

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General solving tip

A question mark usually flags wordplay or a non-literal reading. Expect a pun, a twist, or a definition that's one step removed from the surface meaning.

More tips → General Hints