NY Times Crossword

September 16, 2025 

Jonathan Daly

 

The following phrases have something in common that is hinted at by the last clue. Can you determine what it is? 

 

1. Black card*

2. Key cutting

3. Head cheese

4. Backwash 

5. Sea floor

6. Train conductor's cry 

 

Answer to Clue 6:

ALL ABOARD!

 

Answers to Clues 1-5:

 

Both words in each clue (and each half of Clue 4) can be followed by BOARD:

 

1. Blackboard - Cardboard

2. Keyboard - Cutting board

3. Headboard - Cheese board

4. Backboard - Washboard

5. Seaboard - Floor board

 

*A black card is an exclusive credit card issued by invitation only to the wealthiest clients.