Search Clues
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query MS. Sort by date Show all posts
Showing posts sorted by relevance for query MS. Sort by date Show all posts

Thursday, May 21, 2026

NYT Mini Crossword Trivia Week 3 May 21, 2026 - Daily Answers

Quick NYT Mini Crossword May 21, 2026 (Trivia Week 3) - Solutions

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Mini Crossword has 20 clues total. We have all the answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Popular Puzzles: Todays 55 NYT Mini December 13 2025 | May 28 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | February 07 2020 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Puzzle

NYT Mini Crossword solutions for May 21, 2026
NYT Mini Crossword Grid - Thursday, May 21, 2026
Puzzle Statistics
Detail Information
Date May 21, 2026
Grid Size 5 x 5 squares
Total Clues 20 clues
Across Clues 10 clues
Down Clues 10 clues
Average Solve Time Under 1 minute

Today's Trivia Week {week_num} NYT Mini Crossword Grid Layout

This puzzle uses a 5 by 5 grid. That means 5 boxes across and 5 boxes down.

5x5 Crossword Grid Pattern
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Column 5
Row 1          
Row 2          
Row 3          
Row 4          
Row 5          

How to Solve This Puzzle Fast

  1. Read all the clues first - your brain will start working on them
  2. Fill in the short words first (3 letters or less)
  3. Use the crossing letters to help with harder words
  4. If a clue has a question mark (?), it's probably a joke or play on words
  5. Common short words: THE, AND, ARE, FOR, NOT

Quick Facts About This Puzzle

  • Total squares in grid: 25 (5 times 5)
  • Average time to solve: Less than 1 minute
  • Best time to play: During a coffee break
  • Difficulty level: Made for everyone to enjoy

Across Clues - 10 Total

These clues go from left to right in the puzzle.

Across Clues List
Number Clue
1 Across 5. River whose southernmost source is found in Burundi
2 Across 65. German Ms.
3 Across 1. Gossiped-about duo
4 Across 16. Traditional Vietnamese garment whose name means "long shirt"
5 Across 62. "Beware the ___ of a patient man": John Dryden
6 Across 38. Move like a fox
7 Across 63. Ordered
8 Across 64. Increase, as interest
9 Across 34. Goat's cry
10 Across 46. Legal boundaries?

Hints and Answers for Across Clues

Need help? Here are hints and answers for each clue above. Also check out these helpful guides:

1 Across: "5. River whose southernmost source is found in Burundi"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: N__E

Answer:

Click to reveal NILE

2 Across: "65. German Ms."

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'U'
  • Word pattern: F__U

Answer:

Click to reveal FRAU

3 Across: "1. Gossiped-about duo"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'M'
  • Word pattern: I__M

Answer:

Click to reveal ITEM

4 Across: "16. Traditional Vietnamese garment whose name means "long shirt""

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'I'
  • Word pattern: A___I

Answer:

Click to reveal AODAI

5 Across: "62. "Beware the ___ of a patient man": John Dryden"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: F__Y

Answer:

Click to reveal FURY

6 Across: "38. Move like a fox"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: S___K

Answer:

Click to reveal SKULK

7 Across: "63. Ordered"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: B__E

Answer:

Click to reveal BADE

8 Across: "64. Increase, as interest"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: P___E

Answer:

Click to reveal PIQUE

9 Across: "34. Goat's cry"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'A'
  • This is a short form or acronym

Answer:

Click to reveal MAA

10 Across: "46. Legal boundaries?"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Another word like this: ALT

Answer:

Click to reveal ELS

Down Clues - 10 Total

These clues go from top to bottom in the puzzle.

Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. Short negative review
2 Down 9. The so-called "Pineapple Isle"
3 Down 3. "Bingo!"
4 Down 58. End piece?
5 Down 13. ChatGPT, Claude, etc.
6 Down 8. Philanthropic group with a clock face in its logo
7 Down 32. "Changed my mind," in editing notation
8 Down 49. Fixate
9 Down 61. Some test figs.
10 Down 53. Far from house-trained

Hints and Answers for Down Clues

Need help? Here are hints and answers for each clue above. You might also like:

1 Down: "1. Short negative review"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 6 letters
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: I____D

Answer:

Click to reveal ITSBAD

2 Down: "9. The so-called "Pineapple Isle""

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'I'
  • Word pattern: L___I

Answer:

Click to reveal LANAI

3 Down: "3. "Bingo!""

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 11 letters
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: E_________O

Answer:

Click to reveal EXACTAMUNDO

4 Down: "58. End piece?"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: O__T

Answer:

Click to reveal OBIT

5 Down: "13. ChatGPT, Claude, etc."

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Another word like this: AI

Answer:

Click to reveal AIS

6 Down: "8. Philanthropic group with a clock face in its logo"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: E__S

Answer:

Click to reveal ELKS

7 Down: "32. "Changed my mind," in editing notation"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: S__T

Answer:

Click to reveal STET

8 Down: "49. Fixate"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 6 letters
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: O____S

Answer:

Click to reveal OBSESS

9 Down: "61. Some test figs."

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'S'
  • Another word like this: IQ

Answer:

Click to reveal IQS

10 Down: "53. Far from house-trained"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'F' and ends with 'L'
  • Word pattern: F___L

Answer:

Click to reveal FERAL

How to Solve the NYT Mini Crossword Faster

Here are the best tips from expert solvers:

Step-by-Step Strategy

  1. Quick Scan: Read all clues once. Your brain starts working on them right away.
  2. Easy First: Fill in the shortest words (2-3 letters). These are usually simple words like "IT" or "ON".
  3. Use Crossings: When letters cross, they help you figure out harder words.
  4. Watch for Wordplay: Clues with question marks (?) are jokes or puns.
  5. Common Words: Remember these appear often: ERA, ORE, ATE, ICE.

Letter Tips That Really Help

  • The letter E is the most common in English
  • Words ending in S are often plurals
  • If you see "___" in a clue, the answer fits those blanks exactly
  • Abbreviations in clues mean the answer is also abbreviated

Time Goals to Aim For

Your Time Skill Level What It Means
Under 30 seconds Expert You know the puzzle patterns very well!
30-60 seconds Advanced Great job! You solve quickly.
1-2 minutes Good You're doing well. Keep practicing!
Over 2 minutes Learning You'll get faster with practice.

Puzzle Numbers and Facts

Today's Puzzle by the Numbers
Total Clues: 20 clues to solve
Grid Size: 5 boxes across, 5 boxes down
Total Squares: 25 squares to fill
Average Time: Most people solve in 1 minute 3 seconds
Difficulty: Normal

More Puzzle Help

If you like the NYT Mini, you might enjoy these other puzzles too:

Recent Crossword Solutions:

Common Questions About Trivia Week 3

When can I play the Trivia Week 3 Mini?

The Trivia Week 3 puzzle is available at 10 PM Eastern Time the night before.

How fast should I be able to solve Trivia Week 3?

Most people solve the Trivia Week 3 Mini in 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Don't worry if you take longer - speed comes with practice!

Do I need to pay to play Trivia Week 3?

No! The Trivia Week 3 NYT Mini is completely free. You don't need a subscription like the big crossword.

What makes a good Trivia Week 3 solver?

Good Trivia Week 3 solvers know common short words, can spot wordplay quickly, and use crossing letters well. Practice helps a lot!

Are the puzzles harder during Trivia Week 3?

Trivia Week 3 puzzles can vary in difficulty. Saturdays are often the hardest, while Mondays are the easiest.

About This Page: We provide hints and answers for the NYT Mini Crossword to help you learn and improve. This site is not connected to The New York Times.

Last Updated: May 21, 2026 at 07:04 AM

Search terms: NYT Mini Trivia Week, Trivia Week {week_num}, Mini crossword Trivia Week, Trivia Week answers, NYT Trivia Week, May 21 2026 mini crossword

on No comments:

Wednesday, October 23, 2024

No 27378, Wed Oct 23, 2024 NY Times Crossword by Matthew Stock and Brooke Husic

Across Clues :

1. Birth day party?, 6. Oyster relative, 10. Pick up the tab, 13. Canvas holder, 14. Princess with "space buns", 15. Warrior I or Warrior II, in yoga, 16. B.A. in Communications?, 19. Energizing force, 20. Doha native, 21. "Is that true about me?", 24. Stat for a successful squeeze play, 25. Confident, 26. M.S. in Biology?, 32. Cunning plans, 33. Accessory that might read "Prom King" or "Bride to Be", 34. Website builder, for short, 35. Reasonable, 36. Not accidental, 38. Tinder can be used for this, 39. College, to an Aussie, 40. Spot for drying dishes, 41. Contribute to the mix, 42. Ph.D. in Computing?, 46. "It seems to me," in online shorthand, 47. "___ Mubarak!" (greeting around Ramadan), 48. Marshall's friend on "How I Met Your Mother", 49. Genre for James Baldwin's "Giovanni's Room," familiarly, 52. "Nothing runs like a ___" (ad slogan), 54. Not distinguished by large differences … or an apt title for this puzzle?, 59. Gets along well, 60. Source of many an anonymous political quote, 61. Needing rinsing, maybe, 62. ___ throwing (trendy sport), 63. Secure to a dock, 64. Fashion sense

Wed Oct 23, 2024 NY Times Crossword
Wed Oct 23, 2024 NY Times Crossword


Down Clues :

1. Cabinet member Haaland, 2. Item fit into a thole, 3. Largest NATO member, 4. Graduation day wear at the University of Hawaii, 5. Distinguished athletes, 6. Dungeons & Dragons character with healing powers, 7. Hissing tire's problem, 8. Afflict, 9. Website that contributed to the decline of road atlases, 10. "Pearls" in a drink, 11. Word with error or experience, 12. Creature in the animated film "Abominable", 15. Pi's last name in "Life of Pi", 17. Bloodwork and such, in medical lingo, 18. Severe, 21. Energizes, 22. Italian fashion capital, to Italians, 23. Truly legendary, 25. Time period, 27. Alternative to white or wheat, 28. Tennis champion Naomi, 29. "Hooray for me!", 30. Obtain through logic, 31. Balanced, 36. Group of problem solvers?, 37. Bounce off the walls, say, 38. Prez depicted in a wheelchair at his D.C. memorial, 40. Verb on an invoice, 41. Speak to, 43. Garments worn by caber tossers, 44. Pot, 45. Ran out of battery, 49. Madly in love, 50. Plastic option, for short, 51. School that's home to Grace Hopper College, 52. Bird symbolizing obsolescence, 53. Acronymic achievement for Viola Davis, 55. South America's ___ de la Plata, 56. Sunbeam, 57. Soccer org. for Chelsea and Manchester United, 58. Symbol atop the pyramid on a dollar bill

Break down the NYT Crosswords: October 23, 2024

Let's go into the puzzle, starting with the across clues and answers, followed by the down clues and answers.

Across Clues with Answers:

  • The clue is 1. Birth day party?. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: DOULA

    Possible Answer : monitrice, birthing_coach, doula, labor_coach


  • The clue is 6. Oyster relative. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: CLAM

    Possible Answer : clam, buck, dollar, one_dollar_bill, dollar_bill


  • The clue is 10. Pick up the tab. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: BUY

    Possible Answer : grease_one's_palms, steal, purchase, corrupt, bargain, bribe, buy

    Possible Opposite Answer : sell


  • The clue is 13. Canvas holder. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: EASEL

    Possible Answer : easel


  • The clue is 14. Princess with "space buns". Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: LEIA


  • The clue is 15. Warrior I or Warrior II, in yoga. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: POSE

    Possible Answer : puzzle, dumbfound, posture, get, position, perplex, stick, flummox, bewilder, baffle, personate, nonplus, sit, beat, gravel, vex, set, pose, mystify, model, amaze, mannerism, impersonate, airs, put, affectation, present, stupefy, affectedness, lay, place


  • The clue is 16. B.A. in Communications?. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (15 letters)

    The answer: BRAILLEALPHABET


  • The clue is 19. Energizing force. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: SPARK

    Possible Answer : spark, trigger_off, flicker, trip, trigger, set_off, Muriel_Sarah_Spark, twinkle, Spark, discharge, sparkle, electric_arc, light, electric_discharge, touch_off, Muriel_Spark, arc, Dame_Muriel_Spark, spark_off, actuate, glint, activate


  • The clue is 20. Doha native. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (6 letters)

    The answer: QATARI

    Possible Answer : Qatari, Katari


  • The clue is 21. "Is that true about me?". Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: AMI


  • The clue is 24. Stat for a successful squeeze play. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: RBI

    Possible Answer : run_batted_in, rbi


  • The clue is 25. Confident. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: SURE

    Possible Answer : trusted, for_certain, sure_enough, sure, certain, indisputable, surely, certainly, sure_as_shooting, for_sure

    Possible Opposite Answer : uncertain, unsure


  • The clue is 26. M.S. in Biology?. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (15 letters)

    The answer: MICROSCOPESLIDE


  • The clue is 32. Cunning plans. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: PLOYS

    Possible Answer : stratagem, ploy, gambit


  • The clue is 33. Accessory that might read "Prom King" or "Bride to Be". Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: SASH

    Possible Answer : cincture, girdle, window_sash, waistband, waistcloth, sash


  • The clue is 34. Website builder, for short. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: DEV


  • The clue is 35. Reasonable. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: SANE

    Possible Answer : sane, reasonable

    Possible Opposite Answer : insane


  • The clue is 36. Not accidental. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: MEANT

    Possible Answer : entail, signify, imply, think, mean, intend, stand_for, have_in_mind, think_of


  • The clue is 38. Tinder can be used for this. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: FIRE

    Possible Answer : flame, raise, fervor, fervency, flak, can, blast, flaming, evoke, arouse, fervidness, attack, ardour, flack, fire, burn, give_the_axe, displace, go_off, fervour, give_notice, ardor, discharge, force_out, elicit, sack, enkindle, fuel, dismiss, open_fire, burn_down, kindle, firing, give_the_sack, provoke, terminate, send_away

    Possible Opposite Answer : hire


  • The clue is 39. College, to an Aussie. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: UNI


  • The clue is 40. Spot for drying dishes. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: RACK

    Possible Answer : gouge, squeeze, wheel, wrack, scud, extort, rack, torture, excruciate, wring, stand, single-foot, torment


  • The clue is 41. Contribute to the mix. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: ADDIN


  • The clue is 42. Ph.D. in Computing?. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (15 letters)

    The answer: POCKETHARDDRIVE


  • The clue is 46. "It seems to me," in online shorthand. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: IMHO


  • The clue is 47. "___ Mubarak!" (greeting around Ramadan). Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: EID


  • The clue is 48. Marshall's friend on "How I Met Your Mother". Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: TED

    Possible Answer : Teddy_boy, Ted


  • The clue is 49. Genre for James Baldwin's "Giovanni's Room," familiarly. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (6 letters)

    The answer: GAYLIT


  • The clue is 52. "Nothing runs like a ___" (ad slogan). Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: DEERE

    Possible Answer : John_Deere, Deere


  • The clue is 54. Not distinguished by large differences … or an apt title for this puzzle?. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (15 letters)

    The answer: AMATTEROFDEGREE


  • The clue is 59. Gets along well. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: GELS

    Possible Answer : gelatin, gel, colloidal_gel, mousse


  • The clue is 60. Source of many an anonymous political quote. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: AIDE

    Possible Answer : aide-de-camp, adjutant, auxiliary, aide


  • The clue is 61. Needing rinsing, maybe. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: SOAPY

    Possible Answer : fulsome, buttery, unctuous, oleaginous, saponaceous, smarmy, soapy, oily


  • The clue is 62. ___ throwing (trendy sport). Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: AXE

    Possible Answer : ax, axe


  • The clue is 63. Secure to a dock. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: MOOR

    Possible Answer : moorland, moor, wharf, tie_up, Moor, berth


  • The clue is 64. Fashion sense. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: STYLE

    Possible Answer : fashion, trend, mode, style, way, expressive_style, elan, title, dash, stylus, vogue, manner, flair, panache


Down Clues and Answers:

  • The clue is 1. Cabinet member Haaland. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: DEB

    Possible Answer: debutante, deb

  • The clue is 2. Item fit into a thole. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: OAR

    Possible Answer: oar

  • The clue is 3. Largest NATO member. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: USA

    Possible Answer: U.S., Army, United_States_Army, US_Army, USA, United_States, U._S._Army, U.S.A., United_States_of_America, the_States, America, US

  • The clue is 4. Graduation day wear at the University of Hawaii. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: LEIS

    Possible Answer: lei, coronal, chaplet, wreath, garland

  • The clue is 5. Distinguished athletes. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (7 letters)

    The answer: ALLPROS

  • The clue is 6. Dungeons & Dragons character with healing powers. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (6 letters)

    The answer: CLERIC

    Possible Answer: divine, cleric, ecclesiastic, churchman

  • The clue is 7. Hissing tire's problem. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: LEAK

    Possible Answer: making_water, leak_out, wetting, news_leak, leak, outflow, escape, leakage, passing_water

  • The clue is 8. Afflict. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: AIL

    Possible Answer: garlic, pain, trouble, ail

  • The clue is 9. Website that contributed to the decline of road atlases. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (8 letters)

    The answer: MAPQUEST

    Possible Answer: MapQuest, mapquest

  • The clue is 10. "Pearls" in a drink. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: BOBA

  • The clue is 11. Word with error or experience. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: USER

    Possible Answer: exploiter, user, drug_user, substance_abuser

  • The clue is 12. Creature in the animated film "Abominable". Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: YETI

    Possible Answer: yeti, abominable_snowman

  • The clue is 15. Pi's last name in "Life of Pi". Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: PATEL

  • The clue is 17. Bloodwork and such, in medical lingo. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: LABS

    Possible Answer: science_lab, science_laboratory, research_lab, laboratory, research_laboratory, lab

  • The clue is 18. Severe. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: HARSH

    Possible Answer: harsh, rough, abrasive, coarse

    Possible Opposite Answer : fine

  • The clue is 21. Energizes. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (6 letters)

    The answer: AMPSUP

  • The clue is 22. Italian fashion capital, to Italians. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (6 letters)

    The answer: MILANO

    Possible Answer: Milan, Milano

  • The clue is 23. Truly legendary. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (6 letters)

    The answer: ICONIC

    Possible Answer: iconic

  • The clue is 25. Time period. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: SPAN

    Possible Answer: duo, couplet, cross, twosome, sweep, brace, pair, duad, twain, yoke, dyad, straddle, traverse, duet, span, couple, distich, bridge

  • The clue is 27. Alternative to white or wheat. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: RYE

    Possible Answer: rye, rye_whisky, Secale_cereale, rye_whiskey

  • The clue is 28. Tennis champion Naomi. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: OSAKA

    Possible Answer: Osaka

  • The clue is 29. "Hooray for me!". Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (6 letters)

    The answer: IDIDIT

  • The clue is 30. Obtain through logic. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (6 letters)

    The answer: DERIVE

    Possible Answer: descend, derive, come, deduce, infer, educe, deduct, gain

  • The clue is 31. Balanced. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (6 letters)

    The answer: EVENED

    Possible Answer: level, flush, even, even_out

  • The clue is 36. Group of problem solvers?. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (8 letters)

    The answer: MATHTEAM

  • The clue is 37. Bounce off the walls, say. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: ECHO

    Possible Answer: repeat, Echo, reverberate, replication, ring, echo, sound_reflection, reverberation, resound, recall

  • The clue is 38. Prez depicted in a wheelchair at his D.C. memorial. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: FDR

    Possible Answer: President_Roosevelt, Franklin_Roosevelt, Franklin_Delano_Roosevelt, F._D._Roosevelt, President_Franklin_Roosevelt, Roosevelt, FDR

  • The clue is 40. Verb on an invoice. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: REMIT

    Possible Answer: send_back, defer, table, remitment, hold_over, put_over, slacken, remission, prorogue, shelve, set_back, put_off, remit, postpone, remand

  • The clue is 41. Speak to. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (7 letters)

    The answer: ADDRESS

    Possible Answer: direct, treat, deal, speech, reference, turn_to, name_and_address, call, address, savoir-faire, speak, destination, cover, handle, accost, plow, come_up_to, computer_address

  • The clue is 43. Garments worn by caber tossers. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (5 letters)

    The answer: KILTS

    Possible Answer: kilt

  • The clue is 44. Pot. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (6 letters)

    The answer: REEFER

    Possible Answer: marijuana_cigarette, reefer, joint, stick, spliff

  • The clue is 45. Ran out of battery. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: DIED

    Possible Answer: decease, drop_dead, perish, break_down, conk, give_out, give_way, croak, die_out, break, pass, go, fail, give-up_the_ghost, become_flat, buy_the_farm, go_bad, expire, exit, kick_the_bucket, snuff_it, cash_in_one's_chips, choke, pass_away, pall, pop_off, conk_out, die

    Possible Opposite Answer : be_born

  • The clue is 49. Madly in love. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: GAGA

    Possible Answer: doddering, senile, wild, doddery, dotty, gaga, crazy

  • The clue is 50. Plastic option, for short. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: AMEX

    Possible Answer: American_Stock_Exchange, Curb, AMEX

  • The clue is 51. School that's home to Grace Hopper College. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: YALE

    Possible Answer: Yale, Yale_University, Elihu_Yale

  • The clue is 52. Bird symbolizing obsolescence. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: DODO

    Possible Answer: dodo, fossil, Raphus_cucullatus, fogey, fogy

  • The clue is 53. Acronymic achievement for Viola Davis. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (4 letters)

    The answer: EGOT

  • The clue is 55. South America's ___ de la Plata. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: RIO

    Possible Answer: Rio_de_Janeiro, Rio

  • The clue is 56. Sunbeam. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: RAY

    Possible Answer: shaft, beam_of_light, ray_of_light, irradiation, re, radiate, electron_beam, irradiate, shaft_of_light, light_beam, beam, ray

  • The clue is 57. Soccer org. for Chelsea and Manchester United. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: EPL

  • The clue is 58. Symbol atop the pyramid on a dollar bill. Can you find the Answer?

    Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (3 letters)

    The answer: EYE

    Possible Answer: heart, center, middle, centre, eyeball, eye, oculus, optic

on No comments:
Tags: , , , , , , , , ,

Wednesday, April 1, 2026

Trivia Week 1 Manual for NYT Mini April 01, 2026

NYT Mini Trivia Week 1 April 01, 2026 - Hints & Answers

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Mini Crossword has 20 clues total. We have all the answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Popular Puzzles: January 30 2020 NYT Clues Solutions | Quick NYT Mini Crossword December 04 | February 01 2021 NYT Clues Solutions |

About Today's Puzzle

NYT Mini Crossword solutions for April 01, 2026
NYT Mini Crossword Grid - Wednesday, April 01, 2026
Puzzle Statistics
Detail Information
Date April 01, 2026
Grid Size 5 x 5 squares
Total Clues 20 clues
Across Clues 10 clues
Down Clues 10 clues
Average Solve Time Under 1 minute

Today's Trivia Week {week_num} NYT Mini Crossword Grid Layout

This puzzle uses a 5 by 5 grid. That means 5 boxes across and 5 boxes down.

5x5 Crossword Grid Pattern
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3 Column 4 Column 5
Row 1     
Row 2     
Row 3     
Row 4     
Row 5     

How to Solve This Puzzle Fast

  1. Read all the clues first - your brain will start working on them
  2. Fill in the short words first (3 letters or less)
  3. Use the crossing letters to help with harder words
  4. If a clue has a question mark (?), it's probably a joke or play on words
  5. Common short words: THE, AND, ARE, FOR, NOT

Quick Facts About This Puzzle

  • Total squares in grid: 25 (5 times 5)
  • Average time to solve: Less than 1 minute
  • Best time to play: During a coffee break
  • Difficulty level: Made for everyone to enjoy

Across Clues - 10 Total

These clues go from left to right in the puzzle.

Across Clues List
Number Clue
1 Across 42. Vault in a mummy movie
2 Across 15. Birthplace of seven U.S. presidents
3 Across 39. Scottish caps
4 Across 48. "Wow, cool!"
5 Across 56. Tennis legend Arthur
6 Across 20. Epitome of smoothness
7 Across 26. Implied
8 Across 53. Environmentally friendly: Prefix
9 Across 21. Nail-biting sports periods, for short
10 Across 34. Waze ways: Abbr.

Hints and Answers for Across Clues

Need help? Here are hints and answers for each clue above. Also check out these helpful guides:

1 Across: "42. Vault in a mummy movie"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: C___T

Answer:

Click to reveal CRYPT

2 Across: "15. Birthplace of seven U.S. presidents"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: O__O

Answer:

Click to reveal OHIO

3 Across: "39. Scottish caps"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: T__S

Answer:

Click to reveal TAMS

4 Across: "48. "Wow, cool!""

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 6 letters
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: O____T

Answer:

Click to reveal OHNEAT

5 Across: "56. Tennis legend Arthur"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: A__E

Answer:

Click to reveal ASHE

6 Across: "20. Epitome of smoothness"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: S__K

Answer:

Click to reveal SILK

7 Across: "26. Implied"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: T___T

Answer:

Click to reveal TACIT

8 Across: "53. Environmentally friendly: Prefix"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'O'
  • This is a short form or acronym

Answer:

Click to reveal ECO

9 Across: "21. Nail-biting sports periods, for short"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'S'
  • This is a short form or acronym

Answer:

Click to reveal OTS

10 Across: "34. Waze ways: Abbr."

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: R__S

Answer:

Click to reveal RTES

Down Clues - 10 Total

These clues go from top to bottom in the puzzle.

Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 38. Do some crafting
2 Down 42. MS NOW competitor
3 Down 18. Annual D.C. address, for short
4 Down 8. Walter Scott or Isaac Newton
5 Down 31. Cozy rooms
6 Down 45. Swarming insect
7 Down 1. Outdoor events with grills, for short
8 Down 3. Light on one's feet
9 Down 30. Word repeated while trying out a microphone
10 Down 4. Happy Meal chain, informally

Hints and Answers for Down Clues

Need help? Here are hints and answers for each clue above. You might also like:

1 Down: "38. Do some crafting"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: K__T

Answer:

Click to reveal KNIT

2 Down: "42. MS NOW competitor"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'N'
  • This is a short form or acronym

Answer:

Click to reveal CNN

3 Down: "18. Annual D.C. address, for short"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'U'
  • Word pattern: S__U

Answer:

Click to reveal SOTU

4 Down: "8. Walter Scott or Isaac Newton"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 3 letters
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'R'
  • This is a short form or acronym

Answer:

Click to reveal SIR

5 Down: "31. Cozy rooms"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: D__S

Answer:

Click to reveal DENS

6 Down: "45. Swarming insect"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 6 letters
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: L____T

Answer:

Click to reveal LOCUST

7 Down: "1. Outdoor events with grills, for short"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: B__S

Answer:

Click to reveal BBQS

8 Down: "3. Light on one's feet"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 5 letters
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: A___E

Answer:

Click to reveal AGILE

9 Down: "30. Word repeated while trying out a microphone"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 4 letters
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: T__T

Answer:

Click to reveal TEST

10 Down: "4. Happy Meal chain, informally"

Helpful hints:

  • This word has 8 letters
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: M______S

Answer:

Click to reveal MICKEYDS

How to Solve the NYT Mini Crossword Faster

Here are the best tips from expert solvers:

Step-by-Step Strategy

  1. Quick Scan: Read all clues once. Your brain starts working on them right away.
  2. Easy First: Fill in the shortest words (2-3 letters). These are usually simple words like "IT" or "ON".
  3. Use Crossings: When letters cross, they help you figure out harder words.
  4. Watch for Wordplay: Clues with question marks (?) are jokes or puns.
  5. Common Words: Remember these appear often: ERA, ORE, ATE, ICE.

Letter Tips That Really Help

  • The letter E is the most common in English
  • Words ending in S are often plurals
  • If you see "___" in a clue, the answer fits those blanks exactly
  • Abbreviations in clues mean the answer is also abbreviated

Time Goals to Aim For

Your Time Skill Level What It Means
Under 30 seconds Expert You know the puzzle patterns very well!
30-60 seconds Advanced Great job! You solve quickly.
1-2 minutes Good You're doing well. Keep practicing!
Over 2 minutes Learning You'll get faster with practice.

Puzzle Numbers and Facts

Today's Puzzle by the Numbers
Total Clues: 20 clues to solve
Grid Size: 5 boxes across, 5 boxes down
Total Squares: 25 squares to fill
Average Time: Most people solve in 45 seconds
Difficulty: Medium

More Puzzle Help

If you like the NYT Mini, you might enjoy these other puzzles too:

Recent Crossword Solutions:

Common Questions About Trivia Week 1

When can I play the Trivia Week 1 Mini?

The Trivia Week 1 puzzle is available at 10 PM Eastern Time the night before.

How fast should I be able to solve Trivia Week 1?

Most people solve the Trivia Week 1 Mini in 30 seconds to 2 minutes. Don't worry if you take longer - speed comes with practice!

Do I need to pay to play Trivia Week 1?

No! The Trivia Week 1 NYT Mini is completely free. You don't need a subscription like the big crossword.

What makes a good Trivia Week 1 solver?

Good Trivia Week 1 solvers know common short words, can spot wordplay quickly, and use crossing letters well. Practice helps a lot!

Are the puzzles harder during Trivia Week 1?

Trivia Week 1 puzzles can vary in difficulty. Saturdays are often the hardest, while Mondays are the easiest.

About This Page: We provide hints and answers for the NYT Mini Crossword to help you learn and improve. This site is not connected to The New York Times.

Last Updated: April 01, 2026 at 05:34 AM

Search terms: NYT Mini Trivia Week, Trivia Week {week_num}, Mini crossword Trivia Week, Trivia Week answers, NYT Trivia Week, April 01 2026 mini crossword

on No comments:

Friday, December 26, 2025

NYT Down Clues Answers December 26, 2025 - All 35 Vertical Solutions & Expert Hints

Today's Down Crossword NYT December 26, 2025 - Every Vertical Solution Explained

Quick Summary: Today's NYT Crossword has 35 Down clues. We have all the vertical answers plus helpful hints to make solving easier!

Related Puzzles: Todays NYT Crossword Across Clues_21 | July 03 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | Xwordhint Crossword Answers December 02 |

About Today's Down Clues

NYT Down clues solutions for December 26, 2025
NYT Down Clues - Friday, December 26, 2025
Down Clues Statistics
Detail Information
Date December 26, 2025
Day of Week Friday
Total Down Clues 35 clues
Direction Vertical (Top to Bottom)
Difficulty Medium

All Down Clues - Complete List

Here are all 35 Down clues for today's puzzle. These go vertically from top to bottom.

Complete Down Clues List
Number Clue
1 Down 1. How a supervillain might brag
2 Down 2. Flip
3 Down 3. Waiting for support, maybe
4 Down 4. Like untended plots
5 Down 5. Funeral ___
6 Down 6. Broad band?
7 Down 7. Royal Australian Air Force insignia
8 Down 8. Competition that combines speed with balance
9 Down 9. Professor Dumbledore
10 Down 10. Contest
11 Down 11. Bevy : quail :: parliament : ___
12 Down 12. The world's end, in Norse mythology
13 Down 13. Mr. or Ms. Right
14 Down 14. Baby sitter?
15 Down 21. Half of a classic rum cocktail's name
16 Down 24. Component of a nautilus shell
17 Down 25. Eric who wrote and illustrated "Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me"
18 Down 27. Stick by a fireplace
19 Down 28. Mantra
20 Down 29. Nearby things
21 Down 30. Like the pope's guards
22 Down 31. Area on which to eat or play cards
23 Down 32. "You can absolutely count on me"
24 Down 33. Figure in sci-fi's "Attack of the 50 Foot Woman," e.g.
25 Down 34. Great illustrations
26 Down 38. Connected
27 Down 39. Sister of Moses
28 Down 40. Worth considering
29 Down 41. Made up
30 Down 43. Nation dubbed the "cradle of mankind"
31 Down 44. "Understood?"
32 Down 46. Big break
33 Down 47. Stack (up)
34 Down 49. Casting need
35 Down 51. Short diner order

Detailed Hints and Answers for All Down Clues

Need help? Here are comprehensive hints and answers for each Down clue. Also check these helpful guides:

Complete Down Solutions:

1 Down: "1. How a supervillain might brag"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: S____Y
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: in a smug manner
  • This is Down clue number 1

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SMUGLY

2 Down: "2. Flip"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'L' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: L____T
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 2

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer LOSEIT

3 Down: "3. Waiting for support, maybe"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: O____D
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 3

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ONHOLD

4 Down: "4. Like untended plots"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'W' and ends with 'Y'
  • Word pattern: W___Y
  • Similar words: scrawny, underweight
  • Opposite of: weedless
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: abounding with or resembling weeds
  • This is Down clue number 4

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer WEEDY

5 Down: "5. Funeral ___"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: P__E
  • Similar words: funeral pyre
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: wood heaped for burning a dead body as a funeral rite
  • This is Down clue number 5

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PYRE

6 Down: "6. Broad band?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'I'
  • Similar words: obeah
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 6

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OBI

7 Down: "7. Royal Australian Air Force insignia"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'O'
  • Word pattern: K______O
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 7

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KANGAROO

8 Down: "8. Competition that combines speed with balance"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 15 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: E_____________E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 8

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EGGANDSPOONRACE

9 Down: "9. Professor Dumbledore"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: A___S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 9

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ALBUS

10 Down: "10. Contest"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: B__T
  • Similar words: round, bust
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 10

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BOUT

11 Down: "11. Bevy : quail :: parliament : ___"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'L'
  • Similar words: bird of Minerva, bird of night
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 11

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OWL

12 Down: "12. The world's end, in Norse mythology"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'K'
  • Word pattern: R______K
  • Similar words: Gotterdammerung
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 12

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RAGNAROK

13 Down: "13. Mr. or Ms. Right"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: T______E
  • Similar words: sweetheart, sweetie
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a person loved by another person
  • This is Down clue number 13

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TRUELOVE

14 Down: "14. Baby sitter?"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'R'
  • Word pattern: S______R
  • Similar words: baby carriage, go-cart
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: someone who walks at a leisurely pace
  • This is Down clue number 14

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer STROLLER

15 Down: "21. Half of a classic rum cocktail's name"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'I'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 15

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MAI

16 Down: "24. Component of a nautilus shell"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'N' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: N___E
  • Similar words: mother-of-pearl
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the iridescent internal layer of a mollusk shell
  • This is Down clue number 16

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer NACRE

17 Down: "25. Eric who wrote and illustrated "Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: C___E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 17

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CARLE

18 Down: "27. Stick by a fireplace"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'H'
  • Word pattern: M___H
  • Similar words: equalize, gibe
  • Opposite of: disagree
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 18

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MATCH

19 Down: "28. Mantra"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'C' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: C___T
  • Similar words: cantillate, intone
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 19

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer CHANT

20 Down: "29. Nearby things"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: T___E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 20

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer THESE

21 Down: "30. Like the pope's guards"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'S' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: S___S
  • Similar words: Swiss people
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the natives or inhabitants of Switzerland
  • This is Down clue number 21

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer SWISS

22 Down: "31. Area on which to eat or play cards"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'T' and ends with 'P'
  • Word pattern: T______P
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: the top horizontal work surface of a table
  • This is Down clue number 22

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer TABLETOP

23 Down: "32. "You can absolutely count on me""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'I' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: I______E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 23

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer IPROMISE

24 Down: "33. Figure in sci-fi's "Attack of the 50 Foot Woman," e.g."

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: G______S
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a female giant
  • This is Down clue number 24

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GIANTESS

25 Down: "34. Great illustrations"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 8 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'E' and ends with 'S'
  • Word pattern: E______S
  • Similar words: epitome, paradigm
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a standard or typical example
  • This is Down clue number 25

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer EPITOMES

26 Down: "38. Connected"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'T'
  • Similar words: contact, converge
  • Opposite of: diverge
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: come together
  • This is Down clue number 26

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MET

27 Down: "39. Sister of Moses"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'M' and ends with 'M'
  • Word pattern: M____M
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 27

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer MIRIAM

28 Down: "40. Worth considering"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'O' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: O____E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 28

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer OFNOTE

29 Down: "41. Made up"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 6 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'A' and ends with 'D'
  • Word pattern: A____D
  • Similar words: abye, atone
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: make amends for
  • This is Down clue number 29

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer ATONED

30 Down: "43. Nation dubbed the "cradle of mankind""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'K' and ends with 'A'
  • Word pattern: K___A
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 30

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer KENYA

31 Down: "44. "Understood?""

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 5 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'G' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: G___E
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 31

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer GOTME

32 Down: "46. Big break"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'R' and ends with 'T'
  • Word pattern: R__T
  • Similar words: breach, severance
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a gap between cloud masses
  • This is Down clue number 32

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer RIFT

33 Down: "47. Stack (up)"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 4 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'P' and ends with 'E'
  • Word pattern: P__E
  • Similar words: stack, stilt
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • Definition: a collection of objects laid on top of each other
  • This is Down clue number 33

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer PILE

34 Down: "49. Casting need"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'D' and ends with 'E'
  • Similar words: break down, snuff it
  • Opposite of: be born
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 34

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer DIE

35 Down: "51. Short diner order"

Helpful hints for this Down clue:

  • This word has 3 letters going top to bottom
  • It starts with 'B' and ends with 'T'
  • This is an abbreviation or acronym
  • This is Down clue number 35

Answer:

Click to reveal the Down answer BLT

Expert Strategies for Solving Down Clues

Master the vertical clues with these professional tips:

Why Start with Down Clues?

  • Down clues often reveal key letters for intersecting words
  • Vertical patterns can unlock difficult sections
  • Many prefixes and suffixes run vertically
  • Down answers often help solve Across clues

Down Clue Patterns to Recognize

  1. Fill-in-the-blank clues: These are usually the easiest Down entries
  2. Prefixes and suffixes: Common word parts often run vertically
  3. Abbreviations: Look for clues with "Abbr." or shortened forms
  4. Plural indicators: Words ending in 'S' are common in Down
  5. Pop culture references: Names and titles often appear vertically

Time-Saving Down Techniques

Technique How It Helps
Scan all Down first Get a mental map of the vertical flow
Fill short Down words 3-4 letter words are often prefixes or connectors
Use crossing letters Across letters help confirm Down answers
Look for themes Related Down answers often share a theme

Frequently Asked Questions About Down Clues

What are Down clues in crossword puzzles?

Down clues are the vertical entries in a crossword puzzle that read from top to bottom. They're numbered and correspond to specific columns in the grid.

Should I solve Down or Across clues first?

Many solvers alternate between Down and Across clues to build momentum. Down clues can help unlock difficult sections by providing key intersecting letters. The best approach is to solve the clues you find easiest first, regardless of direction.

How many Down clues are in today's puzzle?

Today's NYT crossword has 35 Down clues.

Are Down clues easier than Across clues?

Neither direction is inherently easier. The difficulty depends on the specific clues and your knowledge. However, Down clues often contain helpful prefixes, suffixes, and word parts that can be easier to guess.

How do Down clues interact with Across clues?

Down and Across clues intersect at various points in the grid. Solving one can provide letters that help solve the other, making the puzzle easier as you progress.

About This Page: We provide comprehensive Down clues solutions and hints for the NYT Crossword to help you improve your solving skills. This site is not affiliated with The New York Times.

Last Updated: December 26, 2025 at 05:16 AM

Search terms: NYT Down, Down clues, vertical, crossword answers, top to bottom, December 26 2025 down clues

on No comments:
Subscribe to: Posts (Atom)