admin Struggling with the “Vault opener?” clue in today’s New York Times Crossword? You’re not alone—this cryptic little question has tripped up even seasoned solvers. But don’t worry, we’ve got the answer and a breakdown to help you sharpen your crossword skills.
✅ Clue: Vault opener?
Answer: POLE
Published in: New York Times Crossword
Date: September 20, 2024 Crossword Clues
Explanation: Why Is the Answer “POLE”?
In true NYT Crossword style, the clue “Vault opener?” includes a question mark, signaling that it’s a play on words. At first glance, you might think of a bank vault and consider answers like key or code.
But here’s the twist: the word “vault” refers not to a safe, but to the pole vault—the Olympic track and field event. The athlete begins the vault using a pole, which serves as the “opener” for the vaulting action.
So in this case:
- Vault = pole vault (not bank vault)
- Opener = the tool used to initiate it
- Answer = POLE
Simple once you see it—but a classic NYT-style misdirection if you don’t!
Common Misleads for This Clue
Because “vault” is such a versatile word, it leads many solvers down the wrong path. Here are some common incorrect guesses:
- KEY – Logical for a physical vault, but not fitting the wordplay
- LEG – A plausible gymnastics connection, but not quite right here
- CODE – Too digital for this context
Always remember: in the New York Times Crossword, question marks almost always mean “think figuratively.”
About the Clue Style in NYT Crossword
The Vault opener NYT Crossword clue is a perfect example of the type of wordplay that the NYT is famous for. Puzzles ramp up in difficulty through the week, and clues like this tend to appear mid-to-late week—often Wednesday to Saturday—when misdirection is most fun.
If you’re stuck often on these kinds of clues, here are two quick tips:
- Question marks = pun or double meaning.
- Context is everything—vault can mean a jump, a safe, or even a leap in logic.
More Clues Like “Vault Opener?”
Here are some related clues and themes that often pop up in NYT puzzles:
- Track and field equipment – Like spikes, baton, or pole
- Gymnastics actions – Flip, tumble, spring
- Wordplay-based clues – Where literal meaning isn’t enough
You’ll often find the Vault opener NYT Crossword clue grouped with other sporty or pun-based hints.
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Final Thoughts
The clue “Vault opener?” might be short, but it’s a perfect showcase of the NYT Crossword’s cleverness. The answer POLE unlocks not just the puzzle but a reminder: in crosswords, words don’t always mean what they seem.
Keep playing, keep solving—and if you’re ever stuck again, Try Hard Wordle is here to help.
