The New York Times Mini Crossword brings a new puzzle every day, offering a fast and entertaining puzzle experience. Today's is an interesting mix of wordplay with closely related answers placed side by side. For example, 6-Across and 7-Across are so similar that the grid becomes even more engaging. While this puzzle leans to the easier side, some clues will need extra thought.
Looking for hints? Here’s a full breakdown of today’s Mini Crossword.
1A: Yoga discipline with a name from Sanskrit
Answer: HATHA
Hatha yoga is a branch of yoga that focuses on physical postures and breath control. The word “Hatha” comes from Sanskrit, meaning “force” or “effort,” reflecting the discipline required in the practice.
6A: ___ run (testing-out stage)
Answer: TRIAL
A "dry run" refers to a test before fully implementing something, such as a product launch, event, or experiment. It helps to identify issues before the final version gets released.
7A: ___ run (jog in the woods)
Answer: TRAIL
A "trail run" is a form of jogging or running done on natural paths that are either in forests or mountains rather than on paved roads. Often this includes very uneven terrain that adds an extra challenge.
8A: Ward off an attack, in fencing
Answer: PARRY
In fencing, a "parry" is a defensive action made to ward off an opponent's attack. It is also used metaphorically to deflect or evade something, like a tough question.
9A: "Woo-hoo!"
Answer: YAY
A short, exuberant expression of glee, triumph, or assent. It is widely used in parties and informal speech.
1D: Internet address starter
Answer: HTTP
Hypertext Transfer Protocol (HTTP) is the backbone of the internet. It's the prefix seen in web addresses, allowing browsers to communicate with websites.
2D: Matrixlike grid
Answer: ARRAY
In mathematics and computer science, an "array" is a structured set of numbers, symbols, or data arranged in rows and columns—just like a matrix. The term also applies to a wide variety of organized collections.
3D: Headwear for a princess
Answer: TIARA
A "tiara" is a small, often jewel-encrusted crown traditionally worn by princesses, queens, or brides. It symbolizes royalty, elegance, and status.
4D: Like Chewbacca and Mr. Snuffleupagus
Answer: HAIRY
Both Chewbacca from Star Wars and Snuffleupagus from Sesame Street are covered in thick hair, making "hairy" the perfect word to describe them.
5D: Supporter of L.G.B.T.Q. rights
Answer: ALLY
An "ally" is someone who supports and advocates for the rights of the LGBTQ+ community, even if they are not a member themselves. It is one of the terms often used in discussions about inclusivity and social justice.
The Mini Crossword is a compact version of the full-sized New York Times puzzle, designed to be solved quickly. Each puzzle fits into a 5x5 grid, so it's fast but satisfying. Monday editions are usually the easiest, but difficulty increases throughout the week.
Every day brings a fresh set of clues, and today's puzzle offers a mix of simple definitions and wordplay. The answers TRIAL and TRAIL add a layer of additional trickiness by having nearly identical structures. PARRY brings in a fencing term, while HAIRY and ALLY add fun and familiar references.
Latest edition of the Daily Mini Crossword from The New York Times Games section. Solve the current edition free, while subscribers can read the archive from way back whenever. Play from the NYT's website or a dedicated app.
Those who want more will find other games in the NYT that include Wordle, Connections, and Strands, with new puzzles to solve every day. Crossword fans can also find crosswords in the Wall Street Journal and the LA Times.
Every Mini Crossword offers a new set of clues, sometimes with wordplay and cultural references. Short but fun, today's puzzle offers a smooth experience with a few cleverly placed challenges. The layout and structure of the grid make it an ideal way to sharpen word skills in just a few minutes.
Missed a clue? The full list above provides all the answers needed to complete the February 11 puzzle.