Gutsy determination NYT crossword clue

The answer to the clue “Gutsy determination” is **moxie**. This slang term captures a blend of courage, nerve, and spirited determination. Someone with moxie is bold, unafraid to take risks, and persistent in pursuing their goals—even when the odds are stacked against them. It conveys a plucky attitude and a fearless confidence.

In crossword puzzles, clues like this often use informal or colorful language to test your grasp of idiomatic expressions. “Moxie” originally came from the name of a soft drink that advertised itself as giving pep and energy, and over time, the term evolved into slang for a gutsy kind of spunk or boldness.