Unsmiling WSJ Crossword Clue

By Last Update: JAN 29, 2026 Follow on Google

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Frequently Asked Questions About This Clue

The most common and recent 5-letter answer for "Unsmiling" is STERN.
The word 'stern' is often used to describe someone who is serious and not smiling, synonymous with unsmiling. It conveys a sense of strictness or severity, aligning with the clue's meaning.
Stern means serious and unrelenting, often in a strict or severe manner.
Ship back?, Barge back, Serious in manner, Serious, Taxing, as a test
WSJ Crossword - November 15, 2025 - WSJ Crossword - January 29, 2026

The clue “Unsmiling” is a classic crossword staple, frequently appearing in puzzles like the WSJ crossword. For the puzzle dated January 29 2026, the definitive 5-letter answer is: STERN.

Expert Tip: When you’re stuck, try to analyze the structure of the clue itself. Is it a direct definition, a pun, a fill-in-the-blank, or a pop culture reference? Identifying the type of clue you’re dealing with is a key skill for improving your solving speed.

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