Struggling with today’s NYT Mini Crossword? Our answer guide for the April 4, 2025 puzzle is here to assist! The New York Times Mini Crossword is a bite-sized version of the classic daily puzzle—quick, engaging, and just as rewarding. Perfect for word enthusiasts, it offers a fun challenge without the time commitment of a full-sized crossword. Available in both print and digital formats, it’s a fantastic daily brain teaser for solvers of all skill levels.
Stumped on a clue? We’ve got you covered! Below, you’ll find a list of all the clues—just tap on the one giving you trouble to reveal the answer. Don’t worry, we’ll keep the rest spoiler-free!
1A Elphaba’s broom in “Wicked” or Aladdin’s lamp in “Aladdin” NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Aladdin (noun)
- A boy from Arabian Nights who obtains a magical lamp that grants him the power to summon a genie.
Answer:
[spoiler]PROP[/spoiler]
5A Thorough investigation NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Investigation (noun)
- The process of examining something in a detailed and systematic manner.
- An inquiry into unknown or suspicious activities.
Answer:
[spoiler]PROBE[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Thorough (adjective)
- Absolute and unqualified; often used informally, sometimes with a negative connotation.
- Carried out fully and comprehensively, leaving nothing overlooked or incomplete.
6A Metaphor for an unquestioning rule-follower NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Metaphor (noun)
- A figure of speech where a word or phrase is applied to something it does not literally describe, implying a resemblance.
Answer:
[spoiler]ROBOT[/spoiler]
7A Harvard and Yale, for two NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Harvard (noun)
- A university located in Massachusetts.
- An American philanthropist (1607–1638) who donated his library and half of his estate to the Massachusetts college that now bears his name.
Answer:
[spoiler]IVIES[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Yale (noun)
- A university situated in Connecticut.
- An English philanthropist (1649–1721) who contributed to a Connecticut college, which was later renamed in his honor.
8A ___ Wearhouse (department store chain) NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Department (noun)
- A distinct division within a larger organization, focusing on a specific function or specialty.
- A particular field of knowledge or expertise.
Answer:
[spoiler]MENS[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Store (noun)
- A device used for electronic data storage.
- A place where goods are kept or stocked.
1D Definitively determine NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Determine (verb)
- To establish or settle something with certainty.
- To arrive at a conclusion or make a decision about something.
Answer:
[spoiler]PROVE[/spoiler]
2D Herald of spring NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Herald (noun)
- A sign or indication of something or someone approaching.
- (Formal) A person who announces significant news.
Answer:
[spoiler]ROBIN[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Herald (verb)
- To loudly acclaim or celebrate.
- To signal or predict something to come.
3D Orchestral reeds NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Anagram – Rearrange the letters below to solve today’s answer.
OOESB
Answer:
[spoiler]OBOES[/spoiler]
4D Kibble nibblers NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Kibble (noun)
- A metal bucket used for lifting materials in wells or mining.
- Coarsely ground grain shaped into pellets, often used as pet food.
Answer:
[spoiler]PETS[/spoiler]
5D Fastidiously proper NYT Crossword Clue
Hint 1: Fastidiously (adverb)
- In a meticulous and detail-oriented manner.
Answer:
[spoiler]PRIM[/spoiler]
Hint 2: Proper (adjective)
- Suitable for a specific condition, purpose, occasion, or individual’s character and needs.
- Possessing all the defining qualities of the specified thing.
