NPR Weekend Edition Sunday Puzzle

November 9, 2025

Will Shortz 

 

Answer each clue with a two-word phrase in which both words start with the same US state postal abbreviation. 

 

Example: Everyday ailment for which there is no cure 

Answer: COmmon COld (CO = Colorado)

 

Note: In the radio puzzle, Will gave the name of the state as a hint along with the clue. I've taken the liberty to place the state names as hints after the clues - for a more challenging version of the puzzle.

 

1. Sudden rush of water down a stream or river bed

2. Aid in seeing the road while driving in the rain

3. Deep blue gem with a Latin name

4. Christmas decoration you can eat

5. Tricky maneuver for a new driver

6. What a stock broker cannot share

7. Female disciple of Jesus

8. Tribal doctors

9. City in state known for apples 

10. Dashboard indicator that goes from Full to Empty 

11. Event where cars intentionally crash into each other 

 

HINTS:

1. Florida

2. Wisconsin

3. Louisiana

4. California

5. Pennsylvania

6. Indiana

7. Massachusetts

8. Maine

9. Washington

10. Georgia

11. Delaware

Answers:

 

1. Flash flood

2. Windshield wiper

3. Lapis lazuli

4. Candy cane

5. Parallel parking

6. Inside information

7. Mary Magdalene

8. Medicine men

9. Walla Walla

10. Gas gauge

11. Demolition derby