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The New York Times Mini Crossword for today brings a fresh set of clever clues, testing your wordplay skills and knowledge. This bite-sized puzzle, loved by crossword fans, offers a quick but engaging challenge. Whether you solve it solo or share it with friends, today’s edition features fun word connections and a mix of cultural references.
Mini crosswords are a great way to sharpen your mind and improve vocabulary. Unlike the full-sized crossword, which requires more time and effort, the Mini is designed to be solved in just a few minutes, making it the perfect daily brain teaser.
The clues today range from wordplay to general knowledge, keeping solvers on their toes. Some require lateral thinking, while others test your familiarity with common phrases, places, and everyday language. If you're stuck on a tricky clue, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered with today’s answers and explanations.
1-Across: "Word that can follow 'belly of the' or 'nature of the'"
Answer: BEAST
Explanation: Both expressions "belly of the beast" and "nature of the beast" both use "beast."
6-Across: "Coffee order with a frothy top"
Answer: LATTE
Explanation: A "latte" is a trendy coffee beverage topped with steamed milk froth.
7-Across: "Ann ___, Mich."
Answer: ARBOR
Explanation: "Arbor" finishes "Ann Arbor," a famous city in Michigan.
8-Across: "Night lights?"
Answer: STARS
Explanation: Stars naturally illuminate the night sky, so this is a clever play on words.
9-Across: "You might have a lot of it on your hands, if you're a chef"
Answer: THYME
Explanation: "Thyme" is a widely used herb, and this clue puns on the phrase "a lot of time on your hands."
1-Down: "Really fun time"
Answer: BLAST
Explanation: A "blast" is an informal term for a thrilling and enjoyable experience.
2-Down: "Our world"
Answer: EARTH
Explanation: "Earth" is our planet—our home in space.
3-Down: "Held in check"
Answer: AT BAY
Explanation: "At bay" refers to holding something in control or at arm's length.
4-Down: "Subject of a winter weather warning"
Answer: STORM
Explanation: A "storm" is frequently the cause for a winter weather advisory.
5-Down: "Abruptly worded"
Answer: TERSE
Explanation: "Terse" refers to a style of speech that is short and direct.
The NYT Mini Crossword remains a popular choice with puzzle enthusiasts for its ideal blend of speedy play and wordplay. If you like to exercise your brain for a couple of minutes a day, this is the ideal morning pick-me-up.
Solving crosswords regularly will also enhance memory, increase problem-solving capacity, and improve focus. The Mini is a good option for first-timers to hone their skills in solving crosswords before switching to full-length puzzles.
For a competitive thrill, doing it as quickly as possible adds a bonus challenge. Many crossword enthusiasts even time themselves and bet against friends or relatives as to who will solve it in the fastest time.
Think you solved it faster than most? Share your time and challenge a friend! Let’s see who can crack the puzzle the quickest.
Enjoy solving, and see you again tomorrow for a new set of fun and tricky clues!
