Every day, enthusiasts like me eagerly await the completion of the free word games from the New York Times. Engaging in the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands has become a beloved ritual for many. Of course, we can’t overlook the NYT’s The Mini Crossword either!
While the NYT is well-known for “The Crossword,” a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has garnered quite a dedicated following. Interestingly, this particular game resets at 10 p.m., setting it apart from some of the others that begin afresh at midnight.
If you find yourself tackling today’s Mini on a Thursday, January 15, 2026, and could use some guidance (I’ve been there), get ready to delve into the clues and solutions for each line. We’ve organized them into hints for both “Across” and “Down” words, followed by the corresponding answers. So, proceed with caution if you wish to avoid spoilers as you peruse!
Diving into today’s Mini Crossword, here are additional hints for each of the words in the puzzle:
NYT Mini Across Hints:
1 Across: Feature of … — HINT: Ends with the letter “O”
4 Across: … every clue — HINT: Starts with the letter “W”
6 Across: Kindle download — HINT: Ends with the letter “K”
7 Across: Attempt again — HINT: Ends with the letter “Y”
8 Across: Peering pair? — HINT: Starts with the letter “E”
NYT Mini Down Hints:
1 Down: Actor Maguire — HINT: Ends with the letter “Y”
2 Down: Jotted (down) — HINT: Starts with the letter “W”
3 Down: Foul smells — HINT: Ends with the letter “S”
4 Down: Had been — HINT: Starts with the letter “W”
5 Down: Rainbow’s place — HINT: Starts with the letter “S”
For those determined to crack today’s Mini Crossword, be sure to keep reading for the precise answers.
Overall, delving into the daily word games from the New York Times is a simple pleasure that adds a touch of mental stimulation to each day.
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.