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August 5’s NYT Mini featured a clever mix of modern drinks, pop culture, and family terms.
“Hop Water” stood out as the puzzle’s most unique answer.
The Mini remains a quick, fun daily brain boost with fresh themes every day.
A new day brings a new puzzle. The NYT Mini Crossword continues its tradition of quick, clever wordplay with the grid for August 5, 2025. This bite-sized challenge features just the right blend of cultural references, family ties, and foodie fun.
The Mini, shorter than the full crossword, serves as a morning brain warm-up for many. And today’s clues delivered an enjoyable, balanced solve without much friction. One slightly odd phrase at the top of the puzzle stood out, but the rest flowed naturally.
Let’s walk through each clue, answer, and provide a quick explanation.
1A. Clue – Witha 4-Across, non-alcoholic drink with a flavor reminiscent of beer
Answer: HOP
Explanation: "Hop" hints at hops - the main ingredient in beer that gives it a bitter taste.
4A. Clue – See 1-Across
Answer: WATER
Explanation: Paired with 1A, this creates "Hop Water," a trendy non-alcoholic drink with beer-like notes.
6A. Clue – Houston M.L.B. player
Answer: ASTRO
Explanation: Refers to a player from the Houston Astros, the city's professional baseball team.
7A. Clue – Sister's daughter
Answer: NIECE
Explanation: A straightforward family relation - daughter of one’s sibling.
8A. Clue – "Just ___ a bite" (parent's dinner encouragement)
Answer: TRY
Explanation: A common phrase used by parents to gently urge a child to eat something new.
1D. Clue – Possesses a certain unnameable quality
Answer: HASIT
Explanation: A casual way of saying someone or something has a special charm or “it factor.”
2D. Clue – Animal that's the mascot of California State University, Monterey Bay
Answer: OTTER
Explanation: The sea otter is the official and beloved mascot of this coastal California university.
3D. Clue – Best friend of Thomas the Tank Engine
Answer: PERCY
Explanation: Percy is a small green engine and Thomas's loyal sidekick in the popular kids' show.
4D. Clue – Sickly in appearance
Answer: WAN
Explanation: "Wan" describes a pale or unhealthy look, often from fatigue or illness.
5D. Clue – Spheres on a sushi roll
Answer: ROE
Explanation: Roe is the culinary term for fish eggs, commonly used as a sushi topping.
Also Read – NYT Wordle Answer Today for August 4, 2025: Hints and Expert Walkthrough
This collection of clues came together neatly. The top answer, “Hop Water,” felt a bit niche but not too obscure. The remaining entries created a smooth solving experience. The balance of pop culture (Percy), sports (Astro), and gentle language (Try, Niece) made this puzzle light yet satisfying.
The Mini Crossword keeps evolving. Today's answers showcase how modern terms (Hop Water) and nostalgic characters (Percy) can share the same tiny grid. It's quick, sharp, and full of little joys.
The grid refreshes daily with a fresh theme or twist. The challenge resets tomorrow. Until then, enjoy this satisfying finish.
Also Read – Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers for August 4, 2025
