By Morkel 
If you’re a regular solver of The New York Times Crossword, you know how cryptic and playful some clues can be. One such clue that has puzzled solvers is “Bumped things”. It may appear simple at first, but like many NYT crossword entries, it likely holds a clever twist beneath its surface.
Clue: “Bumped Things”
Let’s break it down:
- Literal interpretation: When something is “bumped,” it might mean physically knocked or moved.
- Figurative usage: “Bumped” can also mean postponed, promoted, or even removed from a position, depending on context.
- Common NYT answer (4 letters): CDS
Why Bumped Things“CDS”?
Here’s the logic:
- In the past, CDs (compact discs) were commonly played in cars or on stereos.
- When driving, people would sometimes say, “I Bumped that new track yesterday,” meaning they played it loudly.
- Hence, “bumped things” refers to CDs, which were often “bumped” (played with volume and enthusiasm), particularly in slang or colloquial language.
Alternative Interpretations of Bumped
While “CDs” fits in many crossword grids and is the popular answer for this clue, depending on the puzzle’s theme or wordplay, other possible answers might include:
- Hips – things you might “bump” when dancing.
- Carts – “bumped” in a crowded grocery store.
- Elbows – “bumped”Things as a greeting (especially popular during the pandemic).
- Things” as a greeting (especially popular during the pandemic).
Still, “CDS” remains the most common and accepted answer for this clue in NYT Crossword archives.
Final Thoughts
The clue “Bumped things” showcases the wit and dual-meaning strategy that makes The New York Times Crossword such a beloved challenge. Whether you’re a seasoned solver or a beginner, clues like this remind us that sometimes thinking outside the box — or inside the boombox — is exactly what’s needed.
FAQs
Q: What does “bum ped” mean in slang?
A: In slang, “bum ped” can mean playing music, especially loud or with enthusiasm — e.g., “bum ped that album all day.”
Q: Is “CDS” a common crossword answer?
A: Yes, “CDS” is a frequently used answer in crosswords for clues relating to music, media, or outdated tech.
Q: Can “bum ped have other correct answers?
A Bum ped : Potentially, depending on the context or theme of the puzzle, but “CDS” is the most recognized solution in NYT Crossword clues.