The New York Times Crossword · 25-Across · 5 letters
Noted magnate on the Titanic The New York Times Crossword clue
Editorially reviewed October 7, 2026
Answer · 5 letters
ASTOR
ASTOR fills the five squares of the September 1 NYT 25-Across clue. The passenger was John Jacob Astor IV, a wealthy real-estate investor and hotel developer. The clue gives his occupation and the ship, then asks for the family name; it does not ask for the earlier John Jacob Astor from whom he descended.
Different crossing letters? Check another fit →Identify the passenger, not just the family
The Titanic passenger was John Jacob Astor IV. A Titanic passenger record identifies him as a first-class traveler and describes his work in New York hotels and real estate. His ancestor John Jacob Astor was a fur trader, so the ship detail selects the later namesake. Both share the same surname, which is all the five-square entry needs.
Let the number and crossings settle the entry
The September 1 puzzle places this clue at 25-Across and gives ASTOR, five letters. Do not enter JOHN, JACOB or a title such as COLONEL: those identify parts of the man's name but do not fit this numbered answer. If a solver result lacks the source date or number, check the crossing letters before borrowing its fill.
References behind this explanation
- September 1 NYT 25-Across numbered clue and answer
- Encyclopedia Titanica passenger record for John Jacob Astor IV
- Smithsonian Titanic exhibition names John Jacob Astor IV
These references support the meaning or background; they are not publisher endorsements.
Where this clue appeared
25-Across in The New York Times Crossword puzzle for September 1, 2026.
Browse selected The New York Times Crossword clues →More selected clues from The New York Times Crossword · September 1, 2026
Continue with independently explained clues from the same puzzle date. This is a selected learning set, not a complete answer list.
Related reviewed clues
Solve the next clue here.
Paste another clue, add the letters you trust, and keep solving without returning to search.
This independently written explanation is for learning and clue analysis. Crossword Clue Tutor is not affiliated with or endorsed by The New York Times Crossword or its publisher.