Stuck on today’s NYT Mini Crossword? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered! The New York Times Mini Crossword is a bite-sized yet engaging version of the classic daily puzzle. Perfect for a quick brain workout, it offers clever clues and satisfying “aha!” moments without the time commitment of a full-sized crossword. Whether in print or online, it’s a daily favourite among puzzle lovers of all skill levels.
Need a little help? If today’s puzzle has you stumped, we’ve gathered all the clues from the February 23, 2025, edition below. Simply search for the clue that’s giving you trouble and click to reveal the answer. This way, you can get just the hint you need—without spoiling the rest of the puzzle. Happy solving!
1A Sing like “Boopity-bop-dee-doo-dee-doo-bee” NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Sing (verb)
- Produce a whining, ringing, or whistling noise
- Reveal confidential information or secrets
Answer:
[spoiler]SCAT[/spoiler]
5A Hawk’s claw NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Hawk (noun)
- A flat board with a handle underneath, used by masons to carry mortar
- A supporter of aggressive foreign policy
Answer:
[spoiler]TALON[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Hawk (verb)
- To sell goods by moving from place to place
- To forcefully clear the throat of mucus or food
7A The “U” in U.K. NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: US (noun)
- A North American republic consisting of 50 states, including 48 contiguous states, Alaska in the northwest, and Hawaii in the Pacific; gained independence in 1776
Answer:
[spoiler]UNITED[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Stouthearted (adjective)
- Typically used to describe brave or resolute individuals
9A “Hey, that’s cheating!” NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Cheating (adjective)
- Breaking established rules or standards
- Being unfaithful to a spouse or partner
Answer:
[spoiler]NOFAIR[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Cheating (noun)
- Deception for personal gain
10A Rapper with the songs “Hot in Herre” and “Air Force Ones” NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Rapper (noun)
- A hinged, often decorative metal device attached to a door for knocking
- A person who performs rap music
Answer:
[spoiler]NELLY[/spoiler]
1D Surprise greatly NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Surprise (noun)
- The action of catching someone off guard
- A sudden and unexpected occurrence
Answer:
[spoiler]STUN[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Surprise (verb)
- To launch a sudden attack
- To cause astonishment or unexpected reaction
2D Officially accepted storylines NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Officially (adverb)
- With formal approval or authorization
Answer:
[spoiler]CANON[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Accepted (adjective)
- Generally recognized or widely approved
3D “Get ___!” (“Stop being so boring!”) NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Being (noun)
- The condition or fact of existence
- A living entity capable of independent action or function
Answer:
[spoiler]ALIFE[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Boring (noun)
- The process of drilling into the earth, often to extract petroleum
- The act of creating a hole through drilling
4D Sum amount NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Amount (noun)
- The measurable quantity of something
- A specific sum of money
Answer:
[spoiler]TOTAL[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Amount (verb)
- To total a certain number or quantity
- To grow or evolve into something
6D Astronaut Armstrong NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Astronaut (noun)
- An individual trained for space travel
Answer:
[spoiler]NEIL[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Armstrong (noun)
- A U.S. astronaut, the first person to walk on the Moon on July 20, 1969 (born 1930)
- A U.S. jazz pioneer, trumpeter, and bandleader (1900–1971)
8D Free of moisture NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Moisture (noun)
- Dampness resulting from water
Answer:
[spoiler]DRY[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Free (adjective)
- Available and not occupied by planned activities
- Not attached or restricted in place
