The Mini’s rising popularity, alongside digital hits like Wordle and Connections, reflects how short-format puzzles have reshaped the modern gaming routine. Here is a detailed look at the clues, hints and confirmed solutions for Thursday’s edition, as per a report by Mashable.
Across Clues: NYT Mini Crossword Answers for December 11, 2025
The across section of the grid presented a combination of straightforward definitions and culture-related references.
Painter’s protective garment
Answer: Nap
A familiar clue for art lovers, though some may be thrown off by the playful wording.
“Toy Story 5” studio
Answer: Pixar
The animation giant once again makes an appearance in the Mini, serving as a quick win for movie buffs.
Your answer to “Where were you at 9 p.m. last night?,” perhaps
Answer: Alibi
A classic crossword favourite, this clue connects seamlessly to both legal vocabulary and everyday speech.
Tennis star Rafael
Answer: Nadal
The Spanish legend continues to be a staple in short-format puzzles due to his global name recognition.
Solemn sound from a church bell
Answer: Knell
A more literary entry, knell brings a poetic touch to today’s sequence of clues.
NYT Mini Crossword Down Clues: December 11, 2025 Edition
The down clues added variety with slang, geography and scientific references.
Defeat soundly, in slang
Answer: Spann
A colloquial term that has become increasingly visible in digital dictionaries and gamer communities.
Italian city with a fashion week
Answer: Milan
A major global fashion centre, this clue serves as a familiar anchor for solvers.
Iron ___ (rust)
Answer: Oxide
A straightforward scientific entry commonly featured in introductory chemistry.
Small group of conspirators
Answer: Cabal
One of the more evocative words of the crossword tradition, often used in political or historical contexts.
Food for a baleen whale
Answer: Krill
A staple biology clue, this answer appears frequently in puzzles across publications.
Why the Mini Continues to Captivate
With its rapid-fire clues and minimalist structure, the NYT Mini attracts players who enjoy puzzle-solving without the long-term commitment of larger grids. The immediacy of the gameplay, often completed during a short break or commute, has turned it into a global favourite. On days when even seasoned players face a roadblock, ready access to mini crossword answers helps maintain both the streak and the fun.
FAQs
What is the NYT Mini Crossword?
It is a compact version of the traditional New York Times crossword, designed to be solved in under a minute by experienced players.
Where can I find the mini crossword answers for December 11, 2025?
All answers for today’s across and down clues are listed above for quick reference.