Philosopher with a contradictory surname WSJ Crossword Clue

By Narcissa Kh Date: JAN 16, 2026 Follow on Google

Crossword Answer

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Hint 1

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Hint 2

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Hint 3

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Q1.

What is the most likely answer for the crossword clue "Philosopher with a contradictory surname"?

The most common and recent 5-letter answer for "Philosopher with a contradictory surname" is NOYES.

Q2.

Why is "NOYES" the answer to the clue "Philosopher with a contradictory surname"?

The clue refers to a philosopher whose surname is a contradiction in itself. 'NOYES' combines 'NO' and 'YES,' which are opposites, making the surname contradictory.

Q3.

In which puzzle was the clue "Philosopher with a contradictory surname" last seen?

This clue was last seen in the WSJ Crossword on January 16, 2026.

Q4.

What does the word "NOYES" mean in this context?

A surname that juxtaposes the concepts of negation and affirmation.

Q5.

What are some other crossword clues that share the same answer?

Poet Alfred

The clue “Philosopher with a contradictory surname” is a classic crossword staple, frequently appearing in puzzles like the WSJ crossword. For the puzzle dated January 16 2026, the definitive 5-letter answer is: NOYES.

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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