Do you ever feel like your day isn’t complete until you’ve conquered the latest word games from the New York Times? For many of us, diving into the daily challenges of Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands has become a cherished ritual. And let’s not forget the beloved Mini Crossword that resets at 10 p.m., offering a unique twist on the crossword experience.
If you’re tackling today’s Mini Crossword on Sunday, February 22, 2026, and find yourself in need of a little guidance, we’ve got you covered. Below, you’ll find hints and solutions for each clue, divided into “Across” and “Down” categories. Just be cautious not to spoil the fun if you’re aiming to solve the puzzle on your own.
As the NYT is famed for its larger Crossword puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has also garnered a dedicated following. The game resets in the evening, creating a nightly challenge that puzzle-enthusiasts eagerly anticipate.
Here are some additional clues to aid you in solving today’s Mini Crossword:
1 Across: Soybeans or rice — Hint: Ends with the letter “P”
5 Across: Bit of gossip — Hint: Starts with the letter “R”
7 Across: South American flatbread made of ground maize — Hint: Ends with the letter “A”
8 Across: ____ 8 Ball — Hint: Starts with the letter “M”
9 Across: Something a pirate might make you walk — Hint: Starts with the letter “P”
And here are the corresponding solutions to the clues:
1 Across: CROP
5 Across: RUMOR
7 Across: AREPA
8 Across: MAGIC
9 Across: PLANK
1 Down: Sudden muscle tightness — Hint: Ends with the letter “P”
2 Down: Like the areas beyond suburbia — Hint: Starts with the letter “R”
3 Down: Luxury Swiss watch brand — Hint: Ends with the letter “A”
4 Down: Stop by unannounced — Hint: Ends with the letter “N”
6 Down: Billiards triangle — Hint: Starts with the letter “R”
The beauty of these Mini Crossword puzzles lies in their ability to challenge and entertain, offering a brief escape into the world of wordplay. So grab your coffee, sharpen your pencil, and dive into today’s puzzle—it’s time to put your skills to the test!
Peace Nero is a writer and blogger who loves to explore different topics of self-development. She shares her personal experiences in order to help people discover their true purpose in life.