TUXEDO
A formal evening suit, usually dark and worn with a dress shirt and bow tie.
Other meanings and uses
- “Tux” is a common informal shortening of the word tuxedo.
- The word can modify a garment, as in the ordinary phrase “tuxedo jacket.”
Definitions of the day · 2026-10-29
Spoiler-safe definitions for the October 29, 2026 board
An alphabetical-free, board-order glossary explains each entry without arranging words into answer categories.
Open the dated hints and answers →Definitions of the day · 2026-10-29
All 16 words, explained without the answers.
Use this utility to clarify an unfamiliar board entry without seeing words grouped by theme. The items remain in their original board order, and alternate uses are limited to ordinary meanings that do not disclose the puzzle’s answer structure.
TRAFFIC LIGHT
A roadside signaling device that controls the movement of vehicles or pedestrians.
Other meanings and uses
- Figuratively, a traffic-light system can label progress, risk or readiness at a glance.
ROMAN
Relating to ancient Rome, its inhabitants, institutions, culture or historical empire.
Other meanings and uses
- As a noun, a Roman is a person from ancient Rome or a modern resident of Rome.
- The adjective also describes things associated with the city of Rome more generally.
EMPEROR
A male sovereign who rules an empire and conventionally ranks above a king.
Other meanings and uses
- The title can be used figuratively for a man regarded as supreme in a particular field.
PARKING METER
A street-side device used to record or authorize paid parking for a limited time.
Other meanings and uses
- The term is used attributively in phrases such as “parking-meter payment” or “parking-meter space.”
CANDY CORN
A small, sweet, kernel-shaped confection especially associated with the autumn season.
Other meanings and uses
- The expression functions as a mass noun for the candy and as a count noun for individual pieces.
NEAPOLITAN
Relating to Naples, a major city in southern Italy, or to its people and culture.
Other meanings and uses
- As a noun, a Neapolitan is a native or resident of Naples.
PIGGY BANK
A small container, traditionally pig-shaped, used for keeping personal savings.
Other meanings and uses
- The phrase can be used figuratively for a private reserve of money saved for later.
TYPEWRITER
A mechanical or electromechanical machine with keys for printing characters on paper.
Other meanings and uses
- The word is often used attributively in phrases such as “typewriter key” and “typewriter ribbon.”
WISHING WELL
A well traditionally associated with making wishes in the hope that they will come true.
Other meanings and uses
- The phrase can also describe a decorative garden feature modeled on a traditional well.
GOTHIC
Relating to a medieval European architectural style marked by pointed arches and high vaults.
Other meanings and uses
- Gothic literature emphasizes mystery, terror, gloomy settings or supernatural events.
- The word can also relate to the Goths, their history or their language.
ANTARCTICA
Earth’s southernmost continent, situated around the South Pole and largely covered by ice.
Other meanings and uses
- The name is used as a proper noun for the continent rather than as a general place term.
CALICO
A plain-woven cotton cloth, often unbleached or printed with a simple pattern.
Other meanings and uses
- CALICO can modify objects made from the cloth, including bags, curtains and clothing.
WADDLE
To walk with short steps while the body sways noticeably from side to side.
Other meanings and uses
- As a noun, a waddle is the swaying gait produced by that manner of walking.
SANS
A preposition meaning without, often used as a concise or slightly playful alternative.
Other meanings and uses
- In everyday writing, SANS may lend a lightly formal or humorous tone to “without.”
PAYPHONE
A public telephone that a caller uses by making payment at or before the call.
Other meanings and uses
- The word is commonly used attributively in phrases such as “payphone booth” and “payphone call.”