In today’s Monday crossword puzzle, constructor Kiran Pandey delivers a theme that feels right at home alongside comic strip classics. The theme is built on a playful phonetic pun — the phrase “Oh, geez!” is interpreted literally, with themed entries beginning with the letters “O” and “G.” It’s a lighthearted and clever way to begin the week.
Each themed entry follows the “O.G.” pattern:
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OLIVE GARDEN (17A) — Casual dining chain known for unlimited breadsticks.
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OLYMPIC GAMES (28A) — Global event represented by five interlocking rings.
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OPERA GLASSES (46A) — Binoculars used at theatrical performances.
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ORANGE GROVE (61A) — A source of juice brands like Tropicana and Florida’s Natural.
These entries serve up a subtle phonetic punchline, rewarding solvers who catch the “O.G.” pattern behind the clues. Readers are even encouraged to contribute their own “O.G.” phrases, adding a touch of interactive fun to the puzzle. Read more news click here.
Tricky Clues:
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23A: [Capital of Italia] — The clue subtly signals a foreign language. Answer: ROMA, the Italian name for Rome.
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58A: [Govt. rule] — Abbreviation match. “Govt.” leads to the abbreviated REG (regulation).
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1D: [Place in an overhead compartment] — Interpreted as a verb, the correct answer is STOW.
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29D: [Calves, kittens and cubs] — Here, YOUNG is used as a noun, referring to juvenile animals.
Constructor Notes:
This puzzle includes the Shortz-era debut of the entry DAV, referencing children’s author Dav Pilkey, best known for “Captain Underpants.” Pilkey’s unique name spelling reportedly came from a broken name tag machine during his teenage job at Pizza Hut — a fun anecdote that adds personality to the puzzle.
This Monday edition delivers classic crossword charm with just enough linguistic twist to keep solvers on their toes. It’s a puzzle that fits perfectly between comics nostalgia and the satisfying structure of theme-based clues.