Introduction to the New York Times (NYT) Crossword Puzzle

The New York Times crossword is a fun word game where you fill in blank squares with letters to make words. You get clues to help you figure out each word, and the words connect with each other going across and down. The puzzles start off easy on Mondays, perfect for beginners, and get harder as the week goes on. By Saturday, they’re really challenging! Sunday puzzles are bigger but not quite as tough. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been solving for years, these puzzles are a great way to test your brain, learn new words, and have fun. Millions of people do them every day as part of their morning routine.

The Clue: Useless Leftovers NYT

The clue “Useless Leftovers” is asking for words that describe remains or scraps that have no value or purpose. This could refer to waste material, unwanted remnants, or things left behind that can’t be used anymore. Possible answers include DROSS (5 letters) for waste or impurities left over from a process, SCRAPS (6 letters) for small pieces of leftover material, DREGS (5 letters) for worthless remains at the bottom of something, WASTE (5 letters) for discarded or useless material, or TRASH (5 letters) for garbage or things thrown away. The word “useless” is the key—it tells you these aren’t just any leftovers, but specifically ones that have no value or can’t be used. 

Tips for Solving the Clue Useless Leftovers NYT

• Focus on the Word “Useless”

The key word here is “useless”—this isn’t just about any leftovers, but specifically ones that have no value or can’t be used anymore. Think about words that emphasize waste, worthlessness, or discarded material.

• Count the Letter Spaces

Check how many blank squares you need to fill in your puzzle. This immediately narrows your options—5 letters could be DROSS, DREGS, WASTE, or TRASH, while 6 letters might be SCRAPS.

• Think About Waste and Residue

Brainstorm words that describe what’s left after something useful is taken away—like waste, refuse, remnants, or byproducts. Focus on terms that specifically mean worthless remains.

• Check Your Crossing Letters

Look at any letters already filled in from words that intersect with this clue. Even one or two letters can point you toward the right answer and help eliminate options that don’t fit.

• Consider Technical Terms

Sometimes crossword puzzles use more specific or technical vocabulary. Words like DROSS (impurities from melting metal) or DREGS (sediment at the bottom) are more precise than general terms like “trash.”

• Test Your Answer

Once you fill in your best guess, check if it helps solve the crossing clues. If those answers make sense and fit naturally, you’ve found the right solution.

Final Answer of Useless Leftovers NYT

The final answer to the clue “Useless Leftovers NYT” in the New York Times crossword is DROSS (5 letters). Which refers to waste matter or impurities that remain after a process, especially the scum that forms on molten metal. Dross perfectly captures the idea of useless leftovers because it specifically describes material that has no value and must be discarded. Other possible answers depending on your puzzle’s letter count include DREGS (5 letters) for the worthless sediment at the bottom of a liquid, SCRAPS (6 letters) for small leftover pieces, WASTE (5 letters) for discarded material, or TRASH (5 letters) for general garbage. To confirm the right answer, count your letter spaces and check your crossing letters.