Crossword puzzles often feature clever wordplay, making some clues more challenging than they first appear. The New York Times crossword is famous for its tricky and pun-filled clues, and “Vault Opener?” is a perfect example.
Answer: POLE
The answer to “Vault Opener?” in the New York Times crossword is POLE. At first glance, you might think of a bank vault or a treasure vault. However, the question mark at the end of the clue is a signal that the answer involves wordplay rather than a straightforward definition.
In this case, “vault” refers to pole vaulting, a track and field sport where an athlete uses a long, flexible pole to propel themselves over a bar. The “opener” part of the clue hints at something that initiates or starts the vault—hence, the POLE is what allows the athlete to vault.
Understanding the Trickery
New York Times crossword clues with question marks often involve puns, indirect meanings, or plays on words. The key to solving them is to think beyond the obvious.
For example, if you were thinking of a bank vault, you might have considered answers like “key” or “code.” But stepping back and considering “vault” as a verb—meaning “to jump over something”—helps unlock the answer.
Other Clues Like This
If you enjoy these kinds of clever clues, here are a few similar ones from past NYT crosswords:
- “Spring forward?” → LEAP (playing on the phrase “spring forward” but referring to jumping)
- “Shooting star?” → ACTOR (a pun on “shooting” as in filming movies)
- “Match point?” → TINDER (wordplay on a match and the app Tinder)
Final Thoughts
“Vault Opener?” is a great example of how the New York Times crossword puzzles challenge solvers with wit and wordplay. If you come across clues with question marks, try thinking outside the box—you might just vault over the challenge!