New York Times crossword puzzles have a well-deserved reputation as the most clever use of wordplay, pop culture allusions, and linguistic tomfoolery. Most clues are fairly straight forward though some will involve thinking outside the box and will need both logic and lateral thinking to solve.
One such clue that has sparked curiosity among solvers is:
Clue: bumped things nyt crossword
And you are not the only one, should you have come across this in the NYT Crossword and hesitated, trying to figure out its actual meaning. Luckily, that is what we are here to do; to simplify it, look at the potential meanings, and provide you with the confidence to tackle clues such as this in the future.
The Short Answer: ELBOWS
The most accepted and likely solution for “bumped things” in the NYT crossword is:
ELBOWS
At first glance, this might seem odd—how are elbows “things” that are bumped? But when you consider the clue in a modern, slightly metaphorical sense, it clicks.
Why “ELBOWS” Makes Perfect Sense
The clue is an example of cryptic simplicity—a surface-level reading misdirects the solver, while the real meaning lies in modern context and idiomatic language.
Here’s the breakdown:
- “Bumped” is the key action. While it can refer to colliding or nudging, it also relates to a modern form of greeting: the elbow bump.
- The word things is used vaguely in reference to body parts. And this ambiguity is not accidental one: the door is open to interpretation.
- So, the “things” that are bumped in social settings? You got it: elbows.
This hint messes with the mind of the solver. It is not an object that is hit, but a social gesture that was used more frequently in recent years, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic when, due to hygienic considerations, elbow bumps substituted handshakes and hugs.
Context Matters: Crossword Clues and Social Trends
Among the most interesting aspects of the NYT Crossword is its ability to change with times. Clues edited in by producers of books and magazines often include cultural changes and trends, and even memes and slang. The clue is called bumped things, which would have been less sensible to most people until 2020 but after the pandemic, it is absolutely clear what is meant by it.
That is one of the most dynamic things about the crossword puzzles-it is not only a matter of vocabulary to solve them. It is keeping in touch with the world.
Alternate Interpretations (And Why They Don’t Work)
When looking at a clue like “bumped things,” your brain might wander through several possible interpretations. You might think of:
- Fender benders – cars bumping.
- Collision in sports – like shoulders or heads.
- Accidental bumps – bumping into people on the subway.
These are valid interpretations in everyday conversation, but when placed in a crossword grid with a set number of letters (e.g., 6), and especially when other intersecting clues provide certain letters, the word “elbows” becomes the best fit.
Other Clues That Could Hint at ELBOWS
The NYT and other puzzles often recycle themes or use synonymous clues. Here are examples of clues where “elbows” might be the answer:
- “Body parts used in a pandemic greeting”
- “Joint bumpers”
- “Parts not allowed on the table”
- “What you might bump in greeting”
Being familiar with these kinds of clues will allow you to expect similar ones in upcoming puzzles.
Hints in Working out Trick Crossword Clues
Understanding a clue like “bumped things” becomes easier when you apply general crossword-solving strategies:
1. Don’t Take the Clue Literally
Most clues aren’t meant to be taken at face value, especially in NYT puzzles from Thursday onward. Look for double meanings, puns, or social references.
2. Look for the Number of Letters
If the clue is “bumped things” and the answer requires 6 letters, mentally list words that fit both the clue and the format. “Elbows” is one of the few body parts that:
- Comes in pairs
- Can be “bumped”
- Is 6 letters long
3. Use the Crosses
Fill in neighboring clues and see what letters emerge. Often, just one or two correct crossing answers can help you guess the main clue.
4. Think About Word Trends
Consider current events, pop culture, and health trends. Clues often reference what’s happening in the world subtly.
5. Practice Often
The more puzzles you complete, the more you become familiar with a constructor’s style and the editor’s tendencies. Over time, even tricky clues like “bumped things” become easier to spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: When did the clue “bumped things” appear in the NYT Crossword?
While clues vary by day and edition, “bumped things” or similar clues referencing elbow bumps began to appear more frequently in puzzles from 2020 onward, following the global emphasis on pandemic-friendly greetings.
Q2: Is “elbows” a common crossword answer?
Yea, it happens to be common enough. The word elbows works well in a lot of grid patterns because it is six letters and has common consonants and vowels. It is also a multifunctional solution, which can be applied in various situations: anatomy, etiquette, and sports.
Q3: Could “bumped things” have another valid answer?
Technically, other answers could fit depending on the puzzle structure and clue interpretation, but in the NYT context, “elbows” is the most thematically appropriate. If another 6-letter word fits the grid and makes sense based on crosses, it might work—but few alternatives offer the same clarity and cultural relevance.
Q4: How can I improve my crossword-solving skills?
- Solve puzzles regularly, starting from Monday (easiest) and progressing through the week.
- Study past puzzles to see recurring clue styles.
- Join crossword forums or apps like Rex Parker’s blog or Crossword Fiend.
- Learn common crosswordese, i.e., filler words and abbreviations that appear often.
Q5: Where can I find more puzzles like this?
In addition to the NYT Crossword, check out:
- The New Yorker Crossword
- The LA Times Crossword
- The Atlantic Puzzle
- Crossword apps like Crossword Club, NYT Games, and Puzzazz
Final Thoughts
An ideal illustration of how what appears to be a simple phrase in crossword puzzle may contain several layers of meaning is the clue name bumped things. And then, when you see that it leads to the word denoting elbows, it all of a sudden becomes absolutely obvious- and even makes you smile.
Whether you carry the title of experienced solver or are new to the game, identifying the whimsy and cultural references within clues such as this will help you hone your skills and bring you a better understanding of the art of crossword construction.
I really appreciate how you broke down the clue ‘bumped things’ and explained why ‘ELBOWS’ is such a fitting answer. The emphasis on idiomatic language and lateral thinking is spot on—it’s a great reminder that crossword clues often rely on context more than literal meanings. This kind of insight makes tackling tricky puzzles a lot more enjoyable.