This clue might have made you stare at your crossword grid like it just betrayed you. “Upturned parts of a canoe” sounds oddly poetic—but it’s actually one of those clever NYT misdirects designed to make you overthink. Let’s get into it.
The Clue, Decoded
You’re looking at a canoe. What parts are “upturned”? Your mind might jump to boat anatomy—bow, stern, keel… but crossword land doesn’t always play by textbook rules.
This clue is about shape, not shipbuilding.
Misfires That Might’ve Tripped You Up
- Bows – Only gets half the job done.
- Tips – You’re on the right track, but still too vague.
- Sides – Not what’s being “upturned” here.
All of them sound kinda right, but none hit the exact target the NYT is aiming for.
✅ The Correct Answer: ENDS
The front and back of a canoe curve upward—that’s literally what “upturned” means here. And what are those parts called together? ENDS.
It’s simple, a little sly, and very crossword-core.
Why “ENDS” Is a Perfect Fit
- Plural – The clue says “parts,” so you need more than one.
- Visual – If you picture a canoe from the side, both ends clearly rise up.
- Classic crossword style – A normal word used in a clever way.
This is NYT crossword gold: an ordinary word wearing a clever disguise.
