Wastebasket, jokingly
Published by Naitik Mehta · March 30, 2026
Stuck on the clue Wastebasket, jokingly from the New York Times Daily for March 30, 2026? We have the correct 12-letter answer, including the definition, alternative hints, as well as other answers from the same crossword. Ready to learn more about this clue?
Clue
Wastebasket, jokingly (12)
Answer
The answer to Wastebasket, jokingly is Circular File (12 letters).
Why does Circular File fit this clue?
This clue uses humorous slang to point to CIRCULAR FILE, a jocular office term for a wastebasket. A circular file is literally a wastebasket, playing on the idea that documents placed there are 'filed' in a round container rather than stored for future reference. The joke works because office workers use filing systems to organize important papers, but the circular file is where unwanted documents go to be discarded. This tongue-in-cheek expression has been workplace humor for decades, turning the mundane act of throwing something away into mock-bureaucratic language.
What does Wastebasket, jokingly mean?
We break down each word in the clue and show its dictionary definitions below.
wastebasket
noun
•a container for holding trash or discarded items
jokingly
adverb
•in a humorous or playful manner, not seriously
Where did this clue appear?
This clue appeared as 20-across in the New York Times Daily on March 30, 2026, by Gary Cee, edited by Will Shortz. See all answers for this puzzle.
Read the NYT Wordplay column for this puzzle.
NYT Daily — Mar 30, 2026
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What does Circular File mean?
noun
•humorous term for a wastebasket or trash can, implying that documents are 'filed' by being thrown away in a circular motion
How to use Circular File in a sentence
Here are 3 examples of how to use the word Circular File.
•“After reading the rejection letter, Jim tossed it into the circular file with a shrug.”
•“The boss's latest memo about mandatory overtime went straight to the circular file.”
•“When the telemarketer called for the third time today, I sent their offer directly to the circular file.”
Learn about related clues
All clues from the New York Times Daily, Mar 30, 2026 crossword
The New York Times Daily for March 30, 2026 was published by Gary Cee and has 78 clues. Curious about all the answers from this crossword puzzle? View all answers here.
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Frequently asked questions about Wastebasket, jokingly
- What is the answer to Wastebasket, jokingly?
- The answer is Circular File (12 letters).
- Where did this clue appear?
- This clue was last seen in the New York Times Daily on March 30, 2026.
- How many letters does the answer to Wastebasket, jokingly have?
- The answer has 12 letters: Circular File.
Author
Naitik Mehta
Co-founder
Naitik is a gaming enthusiast who loves solving daily word games and enjoys the friendly competition from time to time. He is the co-founder of Crossword Chef and enjoys thinking about how to make crossword solving more fun for everyone around the world.
Puzzle
NYT Daily — Mar 30, 2026
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provider
editor
Will Shortz
date
position
20 Across
answer length
12 letters