Stuck on the New York Times Crossword clue “Roll around in the morning?”? Below you’ll find layered hints, a spoiler-safe answer reveal, and a short explanation of the clever wordplay behind this clue. For more daily crossword help, visit Clue of the Day.
Hints (no spoilers)
Reveal the Answer
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For more wordplay explanations and NYT Crossword insights, visit Clue of the Day.
Why “BAGEL” Fits This Clue
The clue “Roll around in the morning?” uses a classic bit of crossword misdirection. “Roll” might first make you think of movement, but the question mark signals a pun — here, it refers to a breakfast roll. The answer BAGEL is a round bread roll commonly eaten in the morning.
The humor of the clue comes from the word “around,” which describes both the shape of the bagel and its everyday presence at breakfast tables. It’s a witty example of how NYT constructors layer literal and figurative meanings.
Crossword clues like this one often hinge on subtle double meanings — learning to spot the “question mark” pun helps solvers recognize when a clue is being playful rather than literal.
Strategy: Watch for the Question Mark
The “?” at the end of a clue signals wordplay. In this case, “roll” isn’t about motion — it’s about something you eat. Once you shift from a literal to a culinary context, BAGEL stands out as the perfect fit.