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July 21’s NYT Mini Crossword blends pop culture, emotions, and trivia into a smart, speedy challenge.
Clues like SHAKA and SKORT highlight cultural and fashion knowledge in just five across and down entries.
The Mini proves small puzzles can still deliver daily learning and joy.
Each morning starts with a new puzzle from The New York Times Mini Crossword, a small challenge full of clever wordplay and daily trivia. No matter if the grid examines knowledge of old-fashioned board games or state customs, this speedy puzzle always has something up its sleeve. Today brings a new entertaining group of clues in a format that pays dividends for close reading and quick thinking.
Today's NYT Mini crossword puzzle brings with it a new theme or idea. The NYT Mini forges its niche independent of the classic crossword. With five across and five down clues, it reads lightly but never gives anyone an easy break. Monday’s puzzle, dated July 21, 2025, proves exactly that.
1A. Ceremonial band
Answer: SASH
A sash is a decorative strip worn over the shoulder or around the waist during formal events.
5A. First official state hand gesture, following a 2024 Hawaiian bill
Answer: SHAKA
The shaka sign, symbolizing “aloha” and friendship, became Hawaii’s official hand gesture in 2024.
6A. Deck with the Major and Minor Arcana
Answer: TAROT
Tarot cards are used in readings and consist of Major and Minor Arcana representing life’s journey.
7A. Just love
Answer: ADORE
To adore is to extremely love or admire something or someone.
8A. Boardwalk has the highest one on a Monopoly board
Answer: RENT
Boardwalk rent is the greatest fee in the original Monopoly game.
1D. Cool place to be on a sunny day
Answer: SHADE
Shade provides protection from the sun and heat.
2D. Name that might come first during an alphabetical roll call
Answer: AARON
Aaron is often first because of its early place in the alphabet.
3D. Hybrid athletic garment
Answer: SKORT
A skort is a combination of the appearance of a skirt with the ease of shorts.
4D. Just loathe
Answer: HATE
Hate is an intense and strong emotion of dislike.
5D. One whose name is in lights
Answer: STAR
A star is a renowned individual, usually based on stage or screen.
Also Read – Best Puzzle Games for Kids
July 21's NYT Mini crossword answers mix emotion, trivia, and imagination. From cultural pride in Hawaii to fashion's offbeat mashups, the Mini remains full of surprises. SHAKA and SKORT are fresh answers that give the puzzle new life, with RENT and STAR bringing customary sparks of popular culture.
The puzzle also has an emotional beat. Words such as ADORE and HATE capture the depth of human emotion in a mere handful of letters. This contrast adds texture to the otherwise airy design of the Mini.
There is no time lost in this small configuration. The clues are short, but every one opens the door to a wider universe: be it balmy afternoons, legendary names, or thoughtful gestures.
The NYT Mini Crossword again demonstrates that size doesn't matter. With well-written clues and answers that spark curiosity, the July 21 edition provides a good time and education. It's not just a puzzle, it's a bite-sized journey.
A new grid and new ideas await tomorrow, but for today, the trip ends in understanding, gratification, and ten hard-won answers. Another day, another lovely crossword vanquished.
Also Read – NYT Strands Hints and Answers for July 20, 2025
