If you’re searching for a quick and clear solution to the vaults NYT crossword clue, you’re in the right place. Whether you’re a casual puzzler or a devoted crossword enthusiast, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about this common clue, its potential answers, and the nuances behind each one. Let’s dive into every possible variation to help you complete your grid with confidence.
What Does “Vaults” Mean in Crosswords?
The clue “Vaults” can have multiple interpretations depending on the context of the crossword puzzle. That’s what makes it a clever and sometimes tricky clue to solve. It may refer to:
- A physical structure (like an arched ceiling or underground room),
- A movement (to leap or spring over something),
- Or even a safe or strongroom used to store valuables.
Given its variety of meanings, vaults NYT crossword clue can be answered in several ways, depending on the number of letters required and the specific crossword version you’re solving (NYT, LA Times, Telegraph, etc.).
Most Common Answers for “Vaults” in NYT and Other Puzzles
Below are the most frequently seen answers categorized by their letter count. Use this list to match your current puzzle format and fill in the blanks accurately.
5-Letter Answers
- JUMPS – Referring to leaping, as in track and field vaulting events.
- LEAPS – Similar to “jumps”, describing a vaulting movement.
- SAFES – Used when the clue refers to strongboxes or places to store valuables.
6-Letter Answers
- SPRING – Suggesting a quick leap or vault.
- TUMBLES – A more acrobatic interpretation of vaulting, as in gymnastics.
7-Letter Answers
- ARCHWAY – Structural vaults like those in architecture.
- OVERLAP – Can imply going over or across something.
8-Letter Answers
- STRONGBOX – A vault used to secure valuable items.
- TREASURY – A place where valuables or funds are stored securely.
9-Letter Answers
- SAFEHOUSE – Sometimes used in cryptic puzzles, implying a hidden, secure place.
- MAUSOLEUM – In historical contexts, a stone vault for the dead.
Understanding the Context of the Clue
The New York Times crossword puzzle often includes clever wordplay, and “vaults” can lean heavily on double meanings. To figure out which answer fits:
- Check the theme of the puzzle.
- Look at the crossing clues for hints.
- Consider the tense – is the clue in present or past form?
For example:
- If the clue is “Vaults (past tense)”, an answer like “LEAPT” or “JUMPED” may be more suitable.
- If it’s plural and present, “JUMPS” or “LEAPS” could fit better.
Clues Similar to “Vaults” You Should Recognize
Many crossword creators use synonyms or related verbs and nouns. Here are some variations you might encounter that mean the same or similar as vaults:
| Clue | Possible Meaning | Answer Example |
| Makes a leap | Jumping over something | LEAPS, JUMPS |
| Places for cash | Secure location | SAFES, VAULTS |
| Gymnastic moves | Physical vaults or tumbles | FLIPS, TUMBLES |
| Bank storage | Where valuables are kept | STRONGBOX |
| Arch design | Architectural vault | ARCHWAY |
The History and Use of Vaults
The term vault originates from the Latin word voluta, meaning “a roll” or “spiral scroll,” which reflects its early use in architecture. Over time, its definition expanded to include both secure containers and springing movements.
This double entendre is what makes it a recurring challenge in crossword clues—players must discern whether it refers to a motion or a physical structure.
Expert Tips for Solving the Vaults NYT Crossword Clue
Solving tough clues like vaults NYT crossword clue becomes easier with these strategies:
- Check for clues in adjacent boxes. Sometimes, solving a nearby word gives context that clarifies a vague clue.
- Look for puns or wordplay. NYT puzzles, especially on Thursdays and Sundays, are famous for sneaky tricks.
- Think laterally. Don’t get stuck in one interpretation; try shifting your thinking between nouns and verbs.
- Use a pencil or crossword app. Being flexible allows for quick edits when a word doesn’t fit later on.
Diagram: How Crossword Clues Like “Vaults” Are Interpreted
mermaid
CopyEdit
graph TD
A[Vaults Clue]
A –> B[Noun Meaning]
A –> C[Verb Meaning]
B –> D[Safe / Strongbox]
B –> E[Architectural Arch]
B –> F[Treasury / Mausoleum]
C –> G[Leaps / Jumps]
C –> H[Gymnastic Movement]
Quick Reference List of Vaults Clue Answers by Context
| Meaning Type | Description | Example Answers |
| Physical Vault | Secure place or container | SAFES, STRONGBOX |
| Movement Vault | Leaping or jumping over something | JUMPS, LEAPS, SPRING |
| Architectural Vault | Arched ceiling or design element | ARCHWAY, DOME |
| Metaphorical Vault | Secure, hidden place (in cryptic clues) | SAFEHOUSE, CRYPT |
How “Vaults” Appears in Popular Crossword Puzzles
The term vaults doesn’t only show up in the New York Times Crossword. Many other major publications regularly feature this versatile clue. Let’s look at how it’s typically used across the most notable crossword platforms.
NYT (New York Times)
- Known for its double-meaning clues.
- “Vaults” is often used in both physical (safes) and action-based (jumps) contexts.
- Example: Vaults in a bank → SAFES
LA Times Crossword
- Uses more straightforward clues than the NYT but occasionally adopts tricky interpretations.
- Example: Gymnast’s vaults → FLIPS
The Guardian / Telegraph (UK)
- Favors cryptic puzzles where “vaults” could be hidden in wordplay or anagrams.
- Example: Vaults under church perhaps contain treasure → CRYPTS
USA Today Crossword
- More accessible, with direct clues.
- “Vaults” is often seen as movement-related.
- Example: Olympic vaults → LEAPS
Extended List of Synonyms and Clue Variations
Here’s a broader view of words you might encounter that relate to vaults across different crossword puzzles:
| Clue Variation | Likely Answer | Interpretation |
| Bank vaults | SAFES | Secure storage |
| Gymnast’s vaults | FLIPS, TUMBLES | Acrobatics |
| Vaulted over | LEAPT, JUMPED | Action of leaping |
| High vaults | ARCHES, DOMES | Architectural design |
| Storage vaults | STRONGBOXES, CRYPTS | Hidden secure areas |
| Jumps over fences | SPRINGS, HOPS | Movement |
| Crypts or tombs | MAUSOLEUM, VAULTS | Burial sites |
Real-Life Examples That Help Decode the Clue
Understanding how “vaults” works in real-world context can sharpen your interpretation in puzzles:
- Bank Vaults: Reinforced, secure spaces used to store cash and valuables. Clue may simply be “Vaults at Wells Fargo.”
- Athletic Vaults: Events in gymnastics or pole vaulting. Could be clued as “Olympic events involving jumping.”
- Architectural Vaults: Structural elements like domes or arches. Clues might read as “Vaults in cathedrals.”
- Historical/Religious Vaults: Underground tombs or crypts. Think “Vaults beneath old churches.”
Why Vaults Is a Favorite Among Crossword Creators
Crossword constructors love the clue vaults because it:
- Fits Different Word Lengths: Works well in 5- to 9-letter puzzle slots.
- Has Multiple Meanings: Keeps solvers guessing.
- Offers Both Verb and Noun Usage: Ideal for clue variation and misdirection.
- Easily Paired with Themed Grids: Great for sports, banking, architecture, or mystery themes.
How to Guess the Right Vaults Crossword Answer Faster
Here’s a quick cheat sheet:
- Puzzle Theme is Financial? → Try SAFES, TREASURY, STRONGBOX
- Sports/Gymnastics Clues? → Try LEAPS, JUMPS, FLIPS
- Architecture Context? → Try ARCHWAY, DOME
- Mysterious/Underground Settings? → Try CRYPT, MAUSOLEUM
Always check the tense and cross letters for accuracy.
Additional Tools to Solve Crossword Clues Like “Vaults”
If you’re still stuck, these resources can give you an edge:
- Crossword Solver Sites
- Example: OneAcross, Crossword Tracker, Crossword Heaven
- Enter known letters and pattern (e.g., V_A_ _ S).
- Example: OneAcross, Crossword Tracker, Crossword Heaven
- NYT Crossword App or Web Version
- Offers hints and puzzle difficulty ratings.
- Offers hints and puzzle difficulty ratings.
- Online Crossword Communities
- Reddit’s r/crossword or Discord puzzle servers can provide daily discussion and insight.
- Reddit’s r/crossword or Discord puzzle servers can provide daily discussion and insight.
- Thesaurus Check
- Cross-reference meanings of “vaults” for synonym ideas.
- Cross-reference meanings of “vaults” for synonym ideas.
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Conclusion: Be Ready for the Next “Vaults” Puzzle
Whether “vaults” refers to a leap, a secure room, or an architectural element, you’re now equipped to solve it from every angle. The vaults NYT crossword clue is a classic that demands flexibility, observation, and sometimes a leap of logic.
Next time it shows up in the puzzle, you won’t just guess—you’ll know.
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