For many puzzle enthusiasts, solving the NYT Mini Crossword is a daily ritual, alongside games like Wordle, Connections, and Strands.

Though The Crossword remains the flagship puzzle of The New York Times, its smaller counterpart, the Mini Crossword has developed a dedicated following due to its quick yet challenging nature.

If you’re tackling today’s puzzle and need a little guidance, we’ve got you covered.

Below, you'll find hints for both "Across" and "Down" clues, followed by the complete answers. If you’re only looking for subtle nudges, be sure to stop scrolling before reaching the solutions!

Hints for NYT Mini Crossword – February 25, 2025

Here are clues designed to provide a gentle push in the right direction without giving away the full answers, as mentioned in a report by Parade magazine.

Across Clues

• 1 Across: A word that can follow "belly of the" or "nature of the" – Hint: Starts with "B"
  
• 6 Across: A coffee order known for its frothy top – Hint: Ends with "E"
  
• 7 Across: The name of a well-known Michigan city – Hint: Begins with "A"
  
• 8 Across: Things that provide light at night – Hint: Ends with "S"
  
• 9 Across: A kitchen essential that chefs often have a lot of – Hint: Starts with "T"
  

Down Clues

• 1 Down: A really exciting time – Hint: Ends with "T"
  
• 2 Down: The planet we call home – Hint: Begins with "E"
  
• 3 Down: A phrase meaning "held in check" – Hint: Ends with "Y"
  
• 4 Down: A common subject of winter weather warnings – Hint: Starts with "S"
  
• 5 Down: A word used to describe something abruptly worded – Hint: Ends with "E"
  

Answers to NYT Mini Crossword – February 25, 2025

Spoiler alert! If you’d rather solve the puzzle on your own, stop here.

Otherwise, here are today’s answers, as per the Parade’s report:

Across Answers

• 1 Across: BEAST
  
• 6 Across: LATTE
  
• 7 Across: ARBOR
  
• 8 Across: STARS
  
• 9 Across: THYME
  

Down Answers

• 1 Down: BLAST
  
• 2 Down: EARTH
  
• 3 Down: ATBAY
  
• 4 Down: STORM
  
• 5 Down: TERSE
  

FAQs

Why are some letters grey in mini crosswords?

In the Crossword, letter colors indicate different entry modes: Black – Letters entered in default pen mode. Gray – Letters entered in pencil mode. Blue – Letters confirmed using the Check feature.

What is a hidden word in crossword?

Hidden word clues are exactly what their name suggests—answers concealed within the wording of the clue itself.