Image Credit: Bethesda
Forgot password
Enter the email address you used when you joined and we'll send you instructions to reset your password.
If you used Apple or Google to create your account, this process will create a password for your existing account.
This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
Reset password instructions sent. If you have an account with us, you will receive an email within a few minutes.
Something went wrong. Try again or contact support if the problem persists.

Head lock NYT Crossword clue hints and answers

It's not what you think.

Boy, the “Head lock?” clue threw me for a loop in the July 11 NYT Mini Crossword. It’s easy to let it confuse you, so let’s take a step forward before we lose you.

Recommended Videos

Words and phrases with multiple meanings highlight how fantastic and utterly perplexing the English language can be. On paper, “Head lock?” as a clue seems relatively straightforward, but it’s not.

‘Head lock?’ NYT Mini Crossword solution and hints

head lock nyt times crossword clue
Tricky. Screenshot by Dot Esports
  • Hint 1: You can put an “S” in front to make a new word.
  • Hint 2: It ends with the same two letters.
  • Hint 3: It’s nothing to do with someone else.
  • Hint 4: It begins with a “T.”

I’ve done all I can, so if you still need help, the answer is below.

The solution is “TRESS,” meaning a long lock of hair or a long curl emanating from your head. Again, when I referred to the clue as being direct, it is. It’s a lock on your head, and I can hear you tut as the realization hits home. It’s a nifty little clue, and its position on the board should make the rest of the crossword easier.

All answers for the July 11 NYT Crossword puzzle

Across

Down

  • 1D Shopper’s excuse to “save money” — SALE
  • 2D Head lock? — TRESS
  • 3D Wipe, as memory card — ERASE
  • 4D Common date night activity — MOVIE
  • 6D Fast-growing plant — WEED

Head lock clue difficulty, explained

Flummoxed doesn’t even describe how I felt staring at this clue. I completely misinterpreted the clue as a “headlock,” and tried “CHOKE” to no avail. This is why clues are so precise in crosswords and why picking up on details is important. It’s not the most challenging clue and solution in the world, so I give it a three out of five for difficulty.

How to play more Crosswords like the NYT Mini Crossword puzzle

If you want more Crossword-specific puzzles and mind-bending teasers like this, the LA Times and Washington Post are as challenging. If you want to test facets of your knowledge in more varied ways, Strands and Spelling Bee offer equally testing twists on the medium.


Dot Esports is supported by our audience. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small affiliate commission. Learn more about our Affiliate Policy
Author
Image of Andrew Highton
Andrew Highton
Andy is a Game Guides Writer at Dot Esports with a host of experience working at Dexerto, Twinfinite, Keengamer, and more. He's about as passionate a gamer as you're likely to find and spreads that love across a ton of different titles, but will also talk everything football, golf, and wrestling! Be sure to follow his thoughts and ramblings over at @AndyHighton8 on Twitter.