No 27371 Wed Oct 16, 2024 NYTimes Crossword Clues Hints

Across Clues :

1. Friend on "Friends", 5. Besmirch, 10. U.S. immigration policy, familiarly, 14. From which Christmas lights might hang, 15. Dystopian horror film of 2013, with "The", 16. Birds with wings about one-tenth the length of their bodies, 17. Three tickets, 19. Cheeky, 20. "Is that OK with you?", 21. "Despite all that ...", 23. L'il ___, 26. With money, 29. Makes apprehensive, 31. Put forth, as a question, 32. Well-worn, 33. Onetime Houston athlete whose helmet featured a derrick, 35. Frodo Baggins's pursuers, 39. Introductory foreign language class suggested by this puzzle's theme, 43. First British P.M. appointed by Queen Elizabeth II, 44. Sung tribute, 45. Tax prep pro, 46. "Tangible" balance sheet item, 49. Host, 51. More revered, 55. Comedian Youngman, 56. Goddess associated with the owl, 57. Outback hoppers, 59. Suffix with Jumbo, 60. Crazy reason, 66. Bits of advice, 67. Object of finger-pointing on "Fantasy Island", 68. Instruments heard at luaus, for short, 69. Subside, 70. Number of blessings at a Jewish wedding, 71. See 64-Down

Wed Oct 16, 2024 NYTimes Crossword

Down Clues :

1. Li of martial arts fame, 2. Item on a boathouse wall, 3. Time of anticipation, 4. Sycophants, 5. Neuter, 6. "Thou sing'st sweet ___": Shak., 7. Hosp. areas usually on the ground floor, 8. Get wiser, supposedly, 9. Computer troubleshooting options, 10. Look to for support, 11. Revise, 12. Drop an F-bomb, say, 13. Founder of the Pacific Fur Company, 1810, 18. Singer with the 2008 album "Backwoods Barbie", 22. V.I.P. section?, 23. InDesign developer, 24. Bundled, as hay, 25. Nonverbal attention-getter, 27. Run, 28. Like Loki and Thor, 30. Transgress, 34. One miraculously healed by Jesus, 36. Poison found naturally in castor beans, 37. Airer of hearings, 38. Suspect, 40. Somewhat, 41. "The Office" role, 42. "Alrighty, then. As I was saying …", 47. ___ Juan, 48. Resells at hiked-up prices, 50. What to do before a marathon, perhaps, 51. Lacking gloss, 52. Open courtyards, 53. Looks to sell, 54. It might go way over your head, 58. The appearance of a butterfly in a home, for some, 61. Fútbol cheer, 62. Basketball's King James, from 2003-10 and 2014-18, 63. Prez #34, 64. Doc treating 71-Across, 65. Symbol on the collar of Krypto the Superdog

Break down the NYT Crosswords: October 16, 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. Friend on "Friends". Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: JOEY




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

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

  The answer: SMEAR

  Possible Answer : smutch, smirch, defame, besmirch, asperse, cytologic_smear, sully, slur, blot, smear, spot, stain, blur, smudge, calumniate, malignment, cytosmear, vilification, daub, denigrate, slander




• The clue is 10. U.S. immigration policy, familiarly. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: DACA




• The clue is 14. From which Christmas lights might hang. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: EAVE




• The clue is 15. Dystopian horror film of 2013, with "The". Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: PURGE

  Possible Answer : regorge, regurgitate, chuck, retch, spue, purging, be_sick, purge, upchuck, purgation, sick, purify, honk, flush, scour, cast, puke, throw_up, sanctify, vomit, vomit_up, cat, disgorge, barf, spew

  Possible Opposite Answer : rehabilitate, keep_down




• The clue is 16. Birds with wings about one-tenth the length of their bodies. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: EMUS

  Possible Answer : Emu_novaehollandiae, electromagnetic_unit, emu, Dromaius_novaehollandiae




• The clue is 17. Three tickets. Can you find the Answer?

  Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (10 letters)

  The answer: TRESPASSES

  Possible Answer : take_advantage, usurpation, sin, transgress, encroachment, intrusion, violation, overstep, intrude, trespass




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

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

  The answer: PERT

  Possible Answer : saucy, impertinent, irreverent, pert




• The clue is 20. "Is that OK with you?". Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: MAYI




• The clue is 21. "Despite all that ...". Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: EVENSO




• The clue is 23. L'il ___. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ABNER




• The clue is 26. With money. Can you find the Answer?

  Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (9 letters)

  The answer: CONTENDER

  Possible Answer : rival, challenger, competition, competitor, contender




• The clue is 29. Makes apprehensive. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: DAUNTS

  Possible Answer : pall, scare_off, frighten_away, scare_away, frighten_off, daunt, scare, dash




• The clue is 31. Put forth, as a question. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: POSED

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

  Possible Opposite Answer : unposed




• The clue is 32. Well-worn. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: OLD

  Possible Answer : old, Old, quondam, onetime, erstwhile, older, one-time, honest-to-goodness, previous, sometime, sure-enough, honest-to-god, former

  Possible Opposite Answer : young, new




• The clue is 33. Onetime Houston athlete whose helmet featured a derrick. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: OILER

  Possible Answer : tanker, oil_well, tank_ship, oil_tanker, oiler




• The clue is 35. Frodo Baggins's pursuers. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ORCS




• The clue is 39. Introductory foreign language class suggested by this puzzle's theme. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: BEGINNERSPANISH




• The clue is 43. First British P.M. appointed by Queen Elizabeth II. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: EDEN

  Possible Answer : Garden_of_Eden, promised_land, Shangri-la, nirvana, Eden, heaven, paradise




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

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

  The answer: PAEAN

  Possible Answer : panegyric, pean, eulogy, encomium, paean




• The clue is 45. Tax prep pro. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: CPA

  Possible Answer : certified_public_accountant, CPA




• The clue is 46. "Tangible" balance sheet item. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ASSET

  Possible Answer : asset, plus

  Possible Opposite Answer : liability




• The clue is 49. Host. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: MYRIAD

  Possible Answer : myriad, innumerous, multitudinous, ten_thousand, 10000, countless, infinite, unnumberable, innumerable, unnumerable, unnumbered, numberless, uncounted




• The clue is 51. More revered. Can you find the Answer?

  Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (9 letters)

  The answer: MASSACRED

  Possible Answer : mow_down, massacre, slaughter




• The clue is 55. Comedian Youngman. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: HENNY




• The clue is 56. Goddess associated with the owl. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ATHENA

  Possible Answer : Pallas, Athene, Athena, Pallas_Athene, Pallas_Athena




• The clue is 57. Outback hoppers. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ROOS




• The clue is 59. Suffix with Jumbo. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: TRON




• The clue is 60. Crazy reason. Can you find the Answer?

  Here is a hint. It is a word with exactly (10 letters)

  The answer: LOCOMOTIVE

  Possible Answer : locomotive, locomotor, engine, railway_locomotive, locomotive_engine




• The clue is 66. Bits of advice. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: TIPS

  Possible Answer : tippytoe, topple, lean, pourboire, tip, backsheesh, tiptoe, bung, baksheesh, tip_off, slant, hint, peak, wind, top, lead, steer, crest, angle, tap, summit, tumble, gratuity, confidential_information, bakshis, crown, tilt, fee, bakshish, point




• The clue is 67. Object of finger-pointing on "Fantasy Island". Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: PLANE

  Possible Answer : airplane, aeroplane, planer, carpenter's_plane, skim, sheet, shave, level, flat, plane, planing_machine, woodworking_plane




• The clue is 68. Instruments heard at luaus, for short. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: UKES

  Possible Answer : ukulele, uke




• The clue is 69. Subside. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: EASE

  Possible Answer : simpleness, allay, ease, relieve, relaxation, facilitate, still, alleviate, relief, rest, informality, repose, simplicity, comfort, easiness

  Possible Opposite Answer : difficulty




• The clue is 70. Number of blessings at a Jewish wedding. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: SEVEN

  Possible Answer : heptad, 7, septet, septenary, seven-spot, seven, vii, sevener, VII




• The clue is 71. See 64-Down. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: PETS

  Possible Answer : positron_emission_tomography, ducky, favourite, pet, darling, PET, favorite, deary, dearie

Down Clues and Answers:

• The clue is 1. Li of martial arts fame. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: JET

  Possible Answer: gush, cat_valium, coal-black, jet-propelled_plane, spirt, sooty, jet, super_acid, K, blue_jet, pitchy, jet-black, honey_oil, super_C, reverse_lightning, green, squirt, special_K, jet_plane, spurt, fountain

• The clue is 2. Item on a boathouse wall. 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. Time of anticipation. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: EVE

  Possible Answer: eve, eventide, evening, Eve, even

• The clue is 4. Sycophants. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: YESMEN

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

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

  The answer: SPAY

  Possible Answer: castrate, alter, spay, neuter

• The clue is 6. "Thou sing'st sweet ___": Shak.. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: MUSIC

  Possible Answer: euphony, medicine, music

• The clue is 7. Hosp. areas usually on the ground floor. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ERS

  Possible Answer: ER, atomic_number_68, erbium, emergency_room, Er

• The clue is 8. Get wiser, supposedly. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: AGE

  Possible Answer: geezerhood, years, maturate, mature, old_age, long_time, historic_period, age, senesce, get_on, eld

  Possible Opposite Answer : rejuvenate

• The clue is 9. Computer troubleshooting options. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: RESETS

  Possible Answer: reset, readjust

• The clue is 10. Look to for support. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: DEPENDON

• The clue is 11. Revise. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: AMEND

  Possible Answer: rectify, remediate, improve, better, remedy, meliorate, repair, ameliorate, amend

  Possible Opposite Answer : worsen

• The clue is 12. Drop an F-bomb, say. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: CURSE

  Possible Answer: maledict, swearword, nemesis, swearing, condemnation, damn, blaspheme, imprecate, whammy, unchurch, excommunicate, jinx, hex, bedamn, anathemize, curse_word, bane, scourge, beshrew, cuss, oath, torment, expletive, swear, curse, execration, anathemise

  Possible Opposite Answer : communicate, bless

• The clue is 13. Founder of the Pacific Fur Company, 1810. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ASTOR

  Possible Answer: Nancy_Witcher_Astor, John_Jacob_Astor, Astor, Viscountess_Astor

• The clue is 18. Singer with the 2008 album "Backwoods Barbie". Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: PARTON

• The clue is 22. V.I.P. section?. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: VEE

• The clue is 23. InDesign developer. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ADOBE

  Possible Answer: adobe_brick, adobe

• The clue is 24. Bundled, as hay. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: BALED

  Possible Answer: bale

• The clue is 25. Nonverbal attention-getter. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: NUDGE

  Possible Answer: nudge, poke_at, jog, prod

• The clue is 27. Run. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: OPERATE

  Possible Answer: mesh, manoeuver, manoeuvre, function, control, lock, operate_on, run, maneuver, go, work, engage, operate

  Possible Opposite Answer : disengage, malfunction

• The clue is 28. Like Loki and Thor. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: NORSE

  Possible Answer: Scandinavian_language, Norseman, Northman, Norse, North_Germanic, Scandinavian, Norwegian, North_Germanic_language, Nordic

• The clue is 30. Transgress. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: SIN

  Possible Answer: goof, sin, transgress, wickedness, hell, sinning, sinfulness, Sin, blunder, boob, trespass, sine, drop_the_ball

• The clue is 34. One miraculously healed by Jesus. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: LEPER

  Possible Answer: lazar, leper

• The clue is 36. Poison found naturally in castor beans. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: RICIN

  Possible Answer: ricin_toxin, ricin

• The clue is 37. Airer of hearings. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: CSPAN

• The clue is 38. Suspect. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: SHADY

  Possible Answer: fishy, funny, shadowed, umbrageous, shadowy, suspect, fly-by-night, louche, suspicious, shady

• The clue is 40. Somewhat. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: INASENSE

• The clue is 41. "The Office" role. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: PAM

• The clue is 42. "Alrighty, then. As I was saying …". Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ANYHOO

• The clue is 47. ___ Juan. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: SAN

• The clue is 48. Resells at hiked-up prices. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: SCALPS

  Possible Answer: scalp

• The clue is 50. What to do before a marathon, perhaps. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: RESTUP

• The clue is 51. Lacking gloss. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: MATTE

  Possible Answer: matt, matte_up, matte, matt-up, flatness, mat_up, flat, felt, matted, lustrelessness, lusterlessness, mat, felt_up

• The clue is 52. Open courtyards. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ATRIA

  Possible Answer: atrium

• The clue is 53. Looks to sell. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: SHOPS

  Possible Answer: shop, shop_at, tell_on, sponsor, shit, grass, betray, snitch, frequent, store, buy_at, give_away, patronize, denounce, rat, stag, shop_class, workshop, patronise, browse

  Possible Opposite Answer : boycott

• The clue is 54. It might go way over your head. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: DRONE

  Possible Answer: monotone, dawdler, trailer, drone_on, drone_pipe, poke, lagger, bourdon, droning, pilotless_aircraft, radio-controlled_aircraft, drone, laggard

• The clue is 58. The appearance of a butterfly in a home, for some. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: OMEN

  Possible Answer: bode, omen, prognostication, portent, auspicate, foretell, presage, prognostic, prodigy, foreshadow, forecast, Muscat_and_Oman, Oman, prefigure, prognosticate, predict, Sultanate_of_Oman, betoken, portend, augur

• The clue is 61. Fútbol cheer. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: OLE

• The clue is 62. Basketball's King James, from 2003-10 and 2014-18. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: CAV

• The clue is 63. Prez #34. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: IKE

  Possible Answer: Dwight_David_Eisenhower, Dwight_D._Eisenhower, Eisenhower, Dwight_Eisenhower, President_Eisenhower, Ike

• The clue is 64. Doc treating 71-Across. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: VET

  Possible Answer: veterinary, ex-serviceman, veterinarian, veteran, veterinary_surgeon, vet

• The clue is 65. Symbol on the collar of Krypto the Superdog. Can you find the Answer?

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

  The answer: ESS

  Possible Answer: E, einsteinium, Es, atomic_number_99

NYT Mini Answers February 20, 2026 - Trivia Week 3 Special

NYT Mini Puzzle Trivia Week 3 February 20, 2026 - Solved

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: NYT Across Clues Answers September 28 | September 24 2019 NYT Clues Solutions | August 10 2020 NYT Clues Solutions |

Jump To Section

• Puzzle Information
• Grid Layout
• Across Clues (10 total)
• Down Clues (10 total)
• How to Solve Faster
• Common Questions

About Today's Puzzle

NYT Mini Crossword Grid - Friday, February 20, 2026

Puzzle Statistics

Detail	Information
Date	February 20, 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	47. Descendants of the Picts
2 Across	40. Like many working horses, but not many working dogs
3 Across	22. Org. whose work takes many forms?
4 Across	48. Someone you might like to get to know better
5 Across	26. Nahuatl speaker
6 Across	53. Has to keep going
7 Across	28. Muse aloud
8 Across	30. "I smell trouble ...!"
9 Across	17. Baking sheets, cake pans, muffin tins, etc.
10 Across	24. Smear

Hints and Answers for Across Clues

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

• October 23 2019 NYT Clues Solutions
• Xwordhint Crossword Answers September_23
• Xwordhint Crossword Answers December 31

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1 Across: "47. Descendants of the Picts"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

SCOTS

---

2 Across: "40. Like many working horses, but not many working dogs"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

SHOED

---

3 Across: "22. Org. whose work takes many forms?"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

IRS

---

4 Across: "48. Someone you might like to get to know better"

Helpful hints:

• This word has 14 letters
• It starts with 'F' and ends with 'L'
• Word pattern: F____________L

Answer:

Click to reveal

FRIENDMATERIAL

---

5 Across: "26. Nahuatl speaker"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

AZTEC

---

6 Across: "53. Has to keep going"

Helpful hints:

• This word has 8 letters
• It starts with 'C' and ends with 'P'
• Word pattern: C______P

Answer:

Click to reveal

CANTSTOP

---

7 Across: "28. Muse aloud"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

OPINE

---

8 Across: "30. "I smell trouble ...!""

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

OHNO

---

9 Across: "17. Baking sheets, cake pans, muffin tins, etc."

Helpful hints:

• This word has 8 letters
• It starts with 'O' and ends with 'E'
• Word pattern: O______E

Answer:

Click to reveal

OVENWARE

---

10 Across: "24. Smear"

Helpful hints:

• This word has 6 letters
• It starts with 'M' and ends with 'N'
• Word pattern: M____N

Answer:

Click to reveal

MALIGN

Down Clues - 10 Total

These clues go from top to bottom in the puzzle.

Down Clues List

Number	Clue
1 Down	9. Relaxed
2 Down	29. Trade for cash
3 Down	49. Crispy flaps of crust on sourdough loaves
4 Down	10. "Let it stand"
5 Down	43. Hairstyles often associated with the '60s and '70s
6 Down	41. Online nickname
7 Down	11. One of the Obamas
8 Down	45. x
9 Down	5. Cholesterol-lowering drug
10 Down	36. Brings in

Hints and Answers for Down Clues

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

• August 15 2019 NYT Clues Solutions
• Down Clues NYT October 17 2025 Todays
• Xwordhint Crossword Answers October 16

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1 Down: "9. Relaxed"

Helpful hints:

• This word has 6 letters
• It starts with 'A' and ends with 'E'
• Word pattern: A____E

Answer:

Click to reveal

ATEASE

---

2 Down: "29. Trade for cash"

Helpful hints:

• This word has 6 letters
• It starts with 'R' and ends with 'M'
• Word pattern: R____M

Answer:

Click to reveal

REDEEM

---

3 Down: "49. Crispy flaps of crust on sourdough loaves"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

EARS

---

4 Down: "10. "Let it stand""

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

STET

---

5 Down: "43. Hairstyles often associated with the '60s and '70s"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

AFROS

---

6 Down: "41. Online nickname"

Helpful hints:

• This word has 6 letters
• It starts with 'H' and ends with 'E'
• Word pattern: H____E

Answer:

Click to reveal

HANDLE

---

7 Down: "11. One of the Obamas"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

SASHA

---

8 Down: "45. x"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

TIMES

---

9 Down: "5. Cholesterol-lowering drug"

Helpful hints:

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

Answer:

Click to reveal

STATIN

---

10 Down: "36. Brings in"

Helpful hints:

• This word has 7 letters
• It starts with 'I' and ends with 'S'
• Word pattern: I_____S

Answer:

Click to reveal

IMPORTS

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 58 seconds
Difficulty:	Easy

More Puzzle Help

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

Recent Crossword Solutions:

• August 15 2019 NYT Clues Solutions
• August 10 2020 NYT Clues Solutions
• June 02 2021 NYT Clues Solutions
• Xwordhint Crossword Answers December 31
• NYT Across Clues Answers September 28
• October 08 2020 NYT Clues 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.

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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: February 20, 2026 at 05:05 AM

Search terms: NYT Mini Trivia Week, Trivia Week {week_num}, Mini crossword Trivia Week, Trivia Week answers, NYT Trivia Week, February 20 2026 mini crossword

XWordHint Crossword Answers February 20, 2026 | Expert Breakdown & Tips

Master today's NYT crossword with our expert hint system. We provide synonyms, antonyms, and strategic clues to help you solve without spoiling the fun. Perfect for crossword lovers who want that satisfying "aha!" moment.

Quick Navigation - Table of Contents

• Today's Puzzle Difficulty
• Across Clues Table (33 clues)
• Across Clues - Detailed Hints
• Down Clues Table (35 clues)
• Down Clues - Detailed Hints
• Expert Solving Strategies
• Today's Puzzle Statistics

Today's Puzzle Difficulty: Tricky

Pro Tip: Start with the fill-in-the-blank clues - they're usually the easiest entry points!

Across Clues - Complete List

No.	Clue	Letters
1A	1. Disney character who sings "In Summer"	4
2A	5. Product code used in inventory management	3
3A	8. Ropes in	6
4A	14. Ones always grinding at their jobs?	8
5A	16. Connect	6
6A	17. Baking sheets, cake pans, muffin tins, etc.	8
7A	18. Manages	6
8A	19. Pleasant chill in the air, say	14
9A	21. Baylor of N.B.A. fame	5
10A	22. Org. whose work takes many forms?	3
11A	23. Took in	3
12A	24. Smear	6
13A	26. Nahuatl speaker	5
14A	28. Muse aloud	5
15A	29. Actress Seehorn of "Pluribus"	4
16A	30. "I smell trouble ...!"	4
17A	34. Break down while studying?	15
18A	37. First place?	4
19A	38. Docs that deal with sensitive information	4
20A	39. Miracle on the ___ (surprise French/English victory of W.W. I)	5
21A	40. Like many working horses, but not many working dogs	5
22A	42. Binges	6
23A	43. N.Y.C.-based dance group	3
24A	46. Wonder	3
25A	47. Descendants of the Picts	5
26A	48. Someone you might like to get to know better	14
27A	52. Wyndham hotel brand	6
28A	53. Has to keep going	8
29A	55. Extra	6
30A	56. Instruction before an M.R.I.	8
31A	57. Gets wise to?	6
32A	58. Li'l ___ (tykes)	3
33A	59. Fix	4

Across Clues - Strategic Hints

1A: "1. Disney character who sings "In Summer""

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OLAF

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2A: "5. Product code used in inventory management"

3 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SKU

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3A: "8. Ropes in"

6 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that belgian composer (1532-1594)
• Similar words include: Orlando di Lasso, lariat, Lasso
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LASSOS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4A: "14. Ones always grinding at their jobs?"

8 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: BARISTAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5A: "16. Connect"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that cause to be attached
• Similar words include: bond, tie, confiscate
• Opposite of: detach

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ATTACH

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6A: "17. Baking sheets, cake pans, muffin tins, etc."

8 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that heat-resistant dishware in which food can be cooked as well as served
• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OVENWARE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7A: "18. Manages"

6 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SEESTO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8A: "19. Pleasant chill in the air, say"

14 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SWEATERWEATHER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9A: "21. Baylor of N.B.A. fame"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ELGIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10A: "22. Org. whose work takes many forms?"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the bureau of the treasury department responsible for tax collections
• Similar words include: Internal Revenue Service
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: IRS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11A: "23. Took in"

3 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that goddess of criminal rashness and its punishment
• Similar words include: exhaust, consume, eat on
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ATE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12A: "24. Smear"

6 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that speak unfavorably about
• Similar words include: traduce, evil, drag through the mud
• Opposite of: benign

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MALIGN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13A: "26. Nahuatl speaker"

5 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a member of the nahuatl people who established an empire in mexico that was overthrown by cortes in 1519
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AZTEC

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14A: "28. Muse aloud"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that express one's opinion openly and without fear or hesitation
• Similar words include: sound off, animadvert, guess
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OPINE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15A: "29. Actress Seehorn of "Pluribus""

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that fertility goddess in ancient greek mythology; wife of cronus and mother of zeus; identified with roman ops and cybele of ancient asia minor
• Similar words include: Rhea americana, nandu, Pterocnemia pennata
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: RHEA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16A: "30. "I smell trouble ...!""

4 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OHNO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17A: "34. Break down while studying?"

15 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _______________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: REVERSEENGINEER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18A: "37. First place?"

4 letters Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that any place of complete bliss and delight and peace
• Similar words include: Shangri-la, paradise, promised land
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EDEN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19A: "38. Docs that deal with sensitive information"

4 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: NDAS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20A: "39. Miracle on the ___ (surprise French/English victory of W.W. I)"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MARNE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21A: "40. Like many working horses, but not many working dogs"

5 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that furnish with shoes
• Similar words include: shod, shoe, shodden
• Opposite of: unshod

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SHOED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22A: "42. Binges"

6 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a brief indulgence of your impulses
• Similar words include: spree, fling
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SPREES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23A: "43. N.Y.C.-based dance group"

3 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ABT

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24A: "46. Wonder"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an overwhelming feeling of wonder or admiration
• Similar words include: veneration, fear, reverence
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AWE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25A: "47. Descendants of the Picts"

5 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the dialect of english used in scotland
• Similar words include: Scotch, Scotsman, Scottish
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SCOTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26A: "48. Someone you might like to get to know better"

14 letters Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: FRIENDMATERIAL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27A: "52. Wyndham hotel brand"

6 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: RAMADA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28A: "53. Has to keep going"

8 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CANTSTOP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29A: "55. Extra"

6 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that to a degree exceeding normal or proper limits
• Similar words include: too, excessively, to a fault
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OVERLY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30A: "56. Instruction before an M.R.I."

8 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LIESTILL

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31A: "57. Gets wise to?"

6 letters Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an impudent or insolent rejoinder
• Similar words include: sass, lip, back talk
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SASSES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32A: "58. Li'l ___ (tykes)"

3 letters Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an organization of independent states formed in 1945 to promote international peace and security
• Similar words include: UN, United Nations
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: UNS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33A: "59. Fix"

4 letters Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that remove the ovaries of
• Similar words include: neuter, alter, castrate
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SPAY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Down Clues - Complete List

No.	Clue	Letters
1D	1. Seller's shorthand for "I'm willing to haggle"	3
2D	2. W.C.s	4
3D	3. "Is this being broadcast now?"	9
4D	4. Posh hotel room amenities	10
5D	5. Cholesterol-lowering drug	6
6D	6. ___ Bass, first female mayor of Los Angeles	5
7D	7. Customer, in tech-speak	4
8D	8. Social activity that may involve wearing a vest	8
9D	9. Relaxed	6
10D	10. "Let it stand"	4
11D	11. One of the Obamas	5
12D	12. It has eight players	5
13D	13. Word with bird or leave	5
14D	15. Arrogant self-assurance	7
15D	20. Becomes aged, in a way	6
16D	24. Extra	4
17D	25. Was a copycat of	4
18D	26. To come	5
19D	27. Shady dealers	10
20D	29. Trade for cash	6
21D	31. "Some free advice ..."	9
22D	32. State bird found in only a single state	4
23D	33. Valuable deposits	4
24D	35. They might be made up in the spring	8
25D	36. Brings in	7
26D	41. Online nickname	6
27D	42. Things made by toddlers and directors	6
28D	43. Hairstyles often associated with the '60s and '70s	5
29D	44. "Well done!"	5
30D	45. x	5
31D	47. Wood finish	5
32D	49. Crispy flaps of crust on sourdough loaves	4
33D	50. Org. with a "Know Your Rights" campaign	4
34D	51. ___ Bunny, toon who debuted in "Space Jam"	4
35D	54. Carry on	3

Down Clues - Strategic Hints

1D: "1. Seller's shorthand for "I'm willing to haggle""

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OBO

Remember this word for future puzzles!

2D: "2. W.C.s"

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a room or building equipped with one or more toilets
• Similar words include: can, john, lav
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LAVS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

3D: "3. "Is this being broadcast now?""

9 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AREWELIVE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

4D: "4. Posh hotel room amenities"

10 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: __________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: FINELINENS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

5D: "5. Cholesterol-lowering drug"

6 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a medicine that lowers blood cholesterol levels by inhibiting hmg-coa reductase
• Similar words include: lipid-lowering medication, statin drug, lipid-lowering medicine
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: STATIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

6D: "6. ___ Bass, first female mayor of Los Angeles"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the tibeto-burman language spoken in the thailand and burmese borderlands
• Similar words include: Karenic
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: KAREN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

7D: "7. Customer, in tech-speak"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a person who makes use of a thing; someone who uses or employs something
• Similar words include: substance abuser, drug user, exploiter
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: USER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

8D: "8. Social activity that may involve wearing a vest"

8 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LASERTAG

Remember this word for future puzzles!

9D: "9. Relaxed"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ATEASE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

10D: "10. "Let it stand""

4 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that printing: cancel, as of a correction or deletion
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: STET

Remember this word for future puzzles!

11D: "11. One of the Obamas"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SASHA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

12D: "12. It has eight players"

5 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the cardinal number that is the sum of seven and one
• Similar words include: VIII, ogdoad, octonary
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: OCTET

Remember this word for future puzzles!

13D: "13. Word with bird or leave"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the land along the edge of a body of water
• Similar words include: prop, shore up, shoring
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SHORE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

14D: "15. Arrogant self-assurance"

7 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that an itinerant australian laborer who carries his personal belongings in a bundle as he travels around in search of work
• Similar words include: swash, tittup, prance
• Pattern: _______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SWAGGER

Remember this word for future puzzles!

15D: "20. Becomes aged, in a way"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: WIZENS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

16D: "24. Extra"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that english statesman who opposed henry viii's divorce from catherine of aragon and was imprisoned and beheaded; recalled for his concept of utopia, the ideal state
• Similar words include: to a greater extent, Thomas More, more than
• Opposite of: fewer, less

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: MORE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

17D: "25. Was a copycat of"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that imitate uncritically and in every aspect
• Similar words include: caricature, ape
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: APED

Remember this word for future puzzles!

18D: "26. To come"

5 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that having the leading position or higher score in a contest
• Similar words include: beforehand, forward, in advance
• Opposite of: back, backward

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AHEAD

Remember this word for future puzzles!

19D: "27. Shady dealers"

10 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: __________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: CONARTISTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

20D: "29. Trade for cash"

6 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that save from sins
• Similar words include: save, ransom, pay off
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: REDEEM

Remember this word for future puzzles!

21D: "31. "Some free advice ...""

9 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: HERESATIP

Remember this word for future puzzles!

22D: "32. State bird found in only a single state"

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: NENE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

23D: "33. Valuable deposits"

4 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a mineral that contains metal that is valuable enough to be mined
• Similar words include: ore
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ORES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

24D: "35. They might be made up in the spring"

8 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ________

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SNOWDAYS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

25D: "36. Brings in"

7 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that commodities (goods or services) bought from a foreign country
• Similar words include: moment, significance, meaning
• Opposite of: export, inconsequence

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: IMPORTS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

26D: "41. Online nickname"

6 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the appendage to an object that is designed to be held in order to use or move it
• Similar words include: manage, wield, palm
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: HANDLE

Remember this word for future puzzles!

27D: "42. Things made by toddlers and directors"

6 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the place where some action occurs
• Similar words include: tantrum, scenery, picture
• Pattern: ______

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: SCENES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

28D: "43. Hairstyles often associated with the '60s and '70s"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a rounded thickly curled hairdo
• Similar words include: Afro, Afro hairdo
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: AFROS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

29D: "44. "Well done!""

5 letters 💭 Category: Proper Noun

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: BRAVA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

30D: "45. x"

5 letters 💭 Category: Common Word

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a more or less definite period of time now or previously present
• Similar words include: clip, multiplication, fourth dimension
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: TIMES

Remember this word for future puzzles!

31D: "47. Wood finish"

5 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that a soiled or discolored appearance
• Similar words include: sully, maculate, grunge
• Pattern: _____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: STAIN

Remember this word for future puzzles!

32D: "49. Crispy flaps of crust on sourdough loaves"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that the sense organ for hearing and equilibrium
• Similar words include: pinna, ear, auricle
• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: EARS

Remember this word for future puzzles!

33D: "50. Org. with a "Know Your Rights" campaign"

4 letters 💭 Category: General Knowledge

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: ACLU

Remember this word for future puzzles!

34D: "51. ___ Bunny, toon who debuted in "Space Jam""

4 letters 💭 Category: Abbreviation

Solving Hints:

• Pattern: ____

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: LOLA

Remember this word for future puzzles!

35D: "54. Carry on"

3 letters 💭 Category: Wordplay

Solving Hints:

• Think of something that one of the strands twisted together to make yarn or rope or thread; often used in combination
• Similar words include: run, supply, provide
• Pattern: ___

Click to reveal answer (spoiler alert!)

Answer: PLY

Remember this word for future puzzles!

Expert Solving Strategies

Start Smart

Begin with fill-in-the-blank clues and short 3-4 letter words. These are your foundation.

Decode the Clues

Question marks indicate wordplay or puns. "Maybe" suggests multiple interpretations.

Use Cross-References

Let intersecting letters guide you. One correct answer unlocks several others.

Build Vocabulary

Common crossword words repeat. Learning them speeds up future solving.

Today's Puzzle Stats

33 Across Clues

35 Down Clues

68 Total Clues

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Last updated: February 20, 2026 at 05:01 AM