The answer to the “More Frosty” clue in the New York Times Crossword puzzle for September 19, 2024, is RIMIER.
(Copyright The New York Times Company)
More Frosty Explained
RIMIER, a six-letter word, means covered with or resembling rime, a type of frost formed by the freezing of supercooled water droplets in fog. This differs from frost, which forms from the direct freezing of water vapor on a surface. While less common than “frostier” or “icier,” RIMIER likely offers a more precise description of a heavy frost coating, aligning with the crossword clue’s comparative phrasing (“More Frosty”).
RIMIER vs. Other Clues
The “More Frosty” clue has occasionally been misattributed to September 20, 2024. While the answer remains RIMIER, the official publication date is September 19, 2024. The clue “Icier,” appearing in the NYT Crossword on April 23, 2025, shares a similar concept but has a different solution.
| Clue | Answer | Publication Date |
|---|---|---|
| More Frosty | RIMIER | 09/19/2024 |
| Icier | ICIER | 04/23/2025 |
Why RIMIER? Exploring Nuance in Language
The use of RIMIER in the crossword highlights subtleties within the English language. While synonyms like “frostier” exist, RIMIER likely provides a more evocative image of a scene heavily coated in rime. This choice reflects the constructors’ (Josh Goodman) and editor’s (Joel Fagliano) intent to challenge solvers with less common yet more precise vocabulary.
The perceived difficulty of this clue may stem from RIMIER’s infrequent use in everyday conversation. Ongoing linguistic research explores how such words are used in varying contexts and dialects, which could offer further insight into crossword clue selection and solver interpretation.
Tips and Resources for Crossword Enthusiasts
Several online resources and crossword solver websites offer helpful tips and tricks for navigating challenging clues, including strategies for deciphering cryptic clues, understanding common crossword abbreviations, and exploring the nuances of language.
It is important to remember that language is dynamic and meanings can change. While current understanding supports RIMIER as the correct solution for this particular puzzle, there’s always a chance that future interpretations may emerge, reflecting the ever-evolving nature of language.
