The Mini Crossword: A Growing Favorite
While the NYT’s full-sized crossword continues to attract devoted subscribers, the NYT Mini Crossword is celebrated for its accessibility and brevity. Unlike the classic grid that demands more time and attention, The Mini offers a quick five-by-five challenge and resets each evening at 10 p.m. IST, allowing for a nightly brain boost.
As players across different time zones engaged with Monday’s puzzle, many found themselves momentarily stumped by a few misleading hints.
To aid those still puzzling, here are the clues and solutions, carefully structured to avoid spoilers at first glance, as mentioned in a report by Parade magazine.
Across Clues – June 9, 2025
1 Across: A flower that doubles as a nickname, familiar yet floral.
6 Across: A five-letter synonym for being in the know.
7 Across: The South Asian nation tied to a spiritual legacy.
8 Across: Vehicles often rented for formal events.
9 Across: A nostalgic button found on classic game controllers.
Down Clues – June 9, 2025
1 Down: Carried by children and used for sandcastles.
2 Down: To acknowledge and embrace responsibility.
3 Down: First name of a culinary host and author.
4 Down: A term describing something that came before.
5 Down: A baking element key to fermentation.
These cryptic hints reflect the charm of the Mini — everyday language with twists that invite lateral thinking.
Monday’s Mini Crossword Solutions
Players who wished to avoid spoilers were encouraged to pause here. However, for those seeking confirmation or closure, below are the correct answers for NYT Mini June 9.
Across Solutions:
- 1 Across: POPPY
- 6 Across: AWARE
- 7 Across: INDIA
- 8 Across: LIMOS
- 9 Across: START
Down Solutions:
- 1 Down: PAILS
- 2 Down: OWNIT
- 3 Down: PADMA
- 4 Down: PRIOR
- 5 Down: YEAST
Monday’s puzzle was particularly engaging for its cultural blend — from India as the spiritual birthplace of Buddhism to Padma as a nod to culinary television. The balance of simplicity and smart wordplay ensures The Mini retains its devoted following.
FAQs
What is the NYT Mini Crossword?
The NYT Mini Crossword is a compact, five-by-five version of The New York Times’ classic crossword puzzle. Designed for quick yet satisfying gameplay, it offers a brief mental challenge that resets daily at 12:30 p.m. ET.
What makes the NYT Mini popular among solvers?
Its brevity and accessibility make it appealing. Unlike the full-size crossword, The Mini can be completed in minutes, making it ideal for a daily routine or brain warm-up.
