

The NYT Mini Crossword for January 19, 2026, offers simple clues and clear answers, making it easy and enjoyable for both new and regular solvers.
Roald Dahl references add a playful and familiar feel, keeping the puzzle light, warm, and fun from start to finish.
The Mini Crossword proves that short daily games can still deliver satisfaction, focus, and a quick mental refresh within minutes.
The NYT Mini Crossword returns today with another small but clever puzzle for January 19, 2026. Every day, this short crossword brings a new challenge that fits easily into daily life. The grid stays small, yet the thinking stays sharp. This daily puzzle welcomes both new solvers and regular players with equal ease.
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword feels warm and familiar. The clues stay simple. The answers feel clean and clear. A touch of Roald Dahl adds a playful tone that many readers recognize instantly. This puzzle does not rush the solver. It allows quick thinking and smooth progress from start to finish.
The Mini Crossword continues to stand as one of the most loved games in the NYT Games collection. It delivers a short break, a quick smile, and a sense of completion. January 19 brings another fresh set of clues and answers that keep this daily habit enjoyable.
1A. Clue: Crab's grabber
Answer: CLAW
Explanation: A crab uses its claw to hold and grab things.
This opening clue sets an easy tone. The word fits quickly and builds confidence right away.
5A. Clue: "Giant" fruit in a Roald Dahl novel
Answer: PEACH
Explanation: The clue points to James and the Giant Peach, a famous story.
This answer adds a literary touch. Many readers recognize the title without effort.
6A. Clue: Prefix similar to mega-
Answer: ULTRA
Explanation: Ultra works as a prefix that means very large or extreme.
This clue relies on common language. The answer feels modern and familiar.
7A. Clue: Fast and nimble
Answer: FLEET
Explanation: Fleet describes something that moves quickly and lightly.
This word fits the clue perfectly and keeps the pace moving.
8A. Clue: "Fantastic" animal in a Roald Dahl novel
Answer: FOX
Explanation: The clue refers to Fantastic Mr. Fox, another popular book.
This answer closes the across section with charm and balance.
1D. Clue: Large stringed instrument
Answer: CELLO
Explanation: A cello is a big stringed instrument played with a bow.
This clue adds a musical note to the puzzle and feels classic.
2D. Clue: Balloon material
Answer: LATEX
Explanation: Most balloons use latex because it stretches easily.
The answer stays practical and easy to recall.
3D. Clue: 1/640th of a square mile
Answer: ACRE
Explanation: An acre is a land measurement equal to that fraction.
This clue brings a small learning moment into the grid.
4D. Clue: Just ___ the doctor ordered
Answer: WHAT
Explanation: The phrase completes the saying “just what the doctor ordered.”
This entry relies on everyday speech and fits smoothly.
5D. Clue: Small bit of wind
Answer: PUFF
Explanation: A puff means a short and light burst of air.
This soft word ends the puzzle on a gentle note.
Also Read: NYT Strands Hints and Answers for January 18, 2026: Today’s Creative Fabric Theme
The January 19 Mini Crossword works well because it stays simple. Each clue feels fair. Each answer feels earned. The puzzle avoids tricky wordplay and keeps things friendly. The Roald Dahl theme never feels forced. It blends naturally into the grid.
The Mini Crossword also shows why NYT Games continues to grow in popularity. Games like Wordle, Connections, and Strands attract attention, but the Mini holds its own place. It offers quick fun without pressure. It rewards focus without stress.
Today’s puzzle proves that short games can still feel complete. A few minutes of solving bring clarity and satisfaction.
Today’s NYT Mini Crossword once again shows why this daily puzzle remains a favorite. January 19, 2026, delivers simple clues, clear answers, and a warm literary touch. The grid feels light, smooth, and enjoyable from start to finish.
The NYT Mini brings a new puzzle every day, and tomorrow awaits with another fresh set of clues and answers. Along with other NYT Games, the Mini continues to offer a daily moment of calm thinking and fun. The next challenge stands ready, inviting solvers back for another quick and clever round.
Also Read: Today’s NYT Connections Hints and Answers for January 18, 2025