Quick Answer
Clue: Gutsy boldness
Answer: MOXIE
What is Moxie?
Moxie is that special blend of courage, nerve, and determination. It’s the spark that pushes you to take risks, face challenges head-on, and persevere even when the odds are stacked against you. Think of someone who speaks their mind, takes a leap of faith, or stands up for what they believe in – they’ve got moxie. It’s that gutsy boldness that makes things happen.
Why “Moxie” is the Perfect Fit
The clue “gutsy boldness” perfectly captures the essence of moxie. It hints at both courage and daring, that spirited determination to try, even when things get tough. While words like “courage,” “bravery,” or “audacity” come close, they don’t quite capture the nuanced blend of grit, nerve, and almost defiant spirit that moxie embodies. It suggests a certain feistiness, a dash of sass that elevates it beyond simple boldness.
A Deeper Dive into Moxie
Where does this word even come from? Interestingly, “moxie” has roots in a now-defunct soft drink brand, “Moxie Nerve Food,” popular in the early 20th century. Marketed for its invigorating properties, the drink’s name eventually became synonymous with energy, pep, and, of course, gutsy boldness. This historical context adds another layer to the word’s meaning, hinting at a connection between physical vitality and strength of character. Ongoing research into the evolution of language might reveal further insights into the word’s journey and changing connotations.
Some researchers suggest that moxie might be linked to resilience, the ability to bounce back from setbacks. Others theorize a connection to creativity and risk-taking. There’s likely a complex interplay of personality traits, experiences, and even genetics at play. The precise nature of moxie remains a topic of ongoing study, and future research may offer more definitive answers.
Full Solution – June 23, 2024 NYT Mini Crossword
| Across | Down |
|---|---|
| 1. ITEMS | 1. IMPEL |
| 6. MOXIE | 2. TORSO |
| 7. PRIDE | 3. EXIST |
| 8. ESSAY | 4. MIDAS |
| 9. LOTSA | 5. SEEYA |
Where to Find More NYT Crosswords
A subscription to the New York Times Crossword provides access to a wide range of daily puzzles, from the Mini to the Sunday edition. Numerous other platforms and apps also offer crossword puzzles, often with helpful tools and resources. Exploring different styles and difficulty levels can be a great way to hone your wordplay skills.
The Power of Puzzles
The June 23rd, 2024 NYT Mini, with its memorable “gutsy boldness” clue, serves as a reminder of the power of words and the joy of puzzles. It showcases how a single word can evoke a range of emotions, images, and ideas. And perhaps, by solving this puzzle, you’ve not only found the answer “moxie” but also discovered a little bit of it within yourself.
