The New York Times Mini, a condensed daily crossword, offers a quick yet engaging challenge for puzzle enthusiasts. While its larger counterpart demands significant time and a broad knowledge base, The Mini provides a swift and often playful experience, frequently turning into a speed test for dedicated players. When a perplexing clue interrupts the flow of The Mini, it can be a source of frustration, much like encountering a difficult Wordle or Connections puzzle. Fortunately, solutions are available when you find yourself stumped.
Across
Golf shot that’s also a piece of computer hardware
The answer is Chip. This clue cleverly merges a term from golf, referring to a type of shot, with a fundamental component of computer hardware.
Golf shot that’s also a piece of computer hardware
The answer is Drive. Similar to the “Chip” clue, “Drive” has a dual meaning: a powerful golf shot and a data storage device in computers.
Screenwriter Sorkin
The answer is Aaron. This refers to Aaron Sorkin, a renowned screenwriter known for his work on shows like “The West Wing” and films such as “The Social Network.”
Nonreactive, chemically
The answer is Inert. In chemistry, “inert” describes substances that do not readily react with other chemicals, a concept often encountered in science and technology contexts.
“Bye-bye!”
The answer is See ya. This is a casual and common way to say goodbye.
Down
Origami bird
The answer is Crane. This clue points to the traditional Japanese art of paper folding, where a crane is a classic and recognizable figure.
Person added to the staff
The answer is Hiree. This term refers to someone who has been newly employed or added to an organization’s workforce.
Material used to plate the Parthenon Athena and the statue of Zeus at Olympia
The answer is Ivory. Historically, ivory was a prized material used for decorative plating and carving in ancient sculptures, showcasing a connection to art and history.
Five: Prefix
The answer is Penta. This Greek prefix, meaning “five,” is commonly used in scientific and mathematical terms, such as pentagon or photosynthesis.
Oktoberfest glass
The answer is Stein. A “stein” is a traditional beer mug, often made of earthenware, commonly associated with German culture and celebrations like Oktoberfest.
Speaker’s platform
The answer is Dais. This refers to a raised platform, typically at the front of a room, from which a speaker or performer addresses an audience.
For those seeking more engaging puzzles, Mashable offers a variety of games, including Mahjong, Sudoku, and free crosswords, accessible through their dedicated games hub. If you’re looking for the solutions to puzzles on other days, you can find them via the provided links.