Every day, countless individuals like myself find solace and satisfaction in completing the free word games provided by the New York Times. From delving into the daily Connections, Wordle, and Strands puzzles to tackling The Mini Crossword, it has become a revered ritual for many of us. While The Crossword may be the flagship puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has garnered its own devoted fan base. Unlike other games that reset at midnight, The Mini offers a fresh challenge every day at 10 p.m.
For those embarking on today’s Mini Crossword on Thursday, December 11, 2025, seeking a helping hand, you’re in luck. Below, you’ll find hints and solutions for each line, categorized into clues for both “Across” and “Down” words, allowing you to navigate through without encountering spoilers as you scroll.
The Mini Crossword serves as a delightful escape for many, offering a brief yet engaging puzzle to stimulate the mind. As you tackle the clues laid out before you, immerse yourself in the challenge and the satisfaction of unlocking each answer.
Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Thursday, December 11, 2025:
NYT Mini Across Hints:
1 Across: Painter’s protective garment — Hint: Starts with the letter “S”
6 Across: “Toy Story 5” studio — Hint: Ends with the letter “R”
7 Across: Your answer to “Where were you at 9 p.m. last night?,” perhaps — Hint: Starts with the letter “A”
8 Across: Tennis star Rafael — Hint: Starts with the letter “N”
9 Across: Solemn sound from a church bell — Hint: Ends with the letter “L”
NYT Mini Down Hints:
1 Down: Defeat soundly, in slang — Hint: Ends with the letter “K”
2 Down: Italian city with a fashion week — Hint: Ends with the letter “N”
3 Down: Iron ___ (rust) — Hint: Starts with the letter “O”
4 Down: Small group of conspirators — Hint: Ends with the letter “L”
5 Down: Food for a baleen whale — Hint: Starts with the letter “K”
As you navigate through today’s Mini Crossword, keep these hints in mind as you unravel each demanding clue and unveil the hidden answers. Enjoy the challenge, and may the satisfaction of cracking each code bring you joy and fulfillment.
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.