NYT Mini Crossword Solutions and Clues for April 9, 2026
Filmogaz.com reports that Thursday’s NYT Mini Crossword went live with a compact 5×5 grid. The puzzle mixes everyday terms and light wordplay.
Filmogaz.com provides NYT Mini Crossword Solutions and Clues for April 9, 2026, including answers and hints. Below are the essentials and the full solution set.
How the Mini works
The Mini typically uses a 5×5 grid. It features five Across and five Down entries.
Saturdays bring a larger grid with more clues. New puzzles drop at 10 p.m. EST on weekdays and Saturdays.
Sunday’s Mini appears earlier, at 6 p.m. EST on the preceding Saturday. The in-app timer offers a personal challenge.
Puzzle at a glance
- Grid size: 5×5.
- Total clues: 11 (5 Across, 6 Down).
- Trickiest clue: “Boomer’s bop, nowadays.”
- Gimme clue: “Raven’s haven.”
- Theme: None for this puzzle.
Hints and full answers
Across
- 1A. Slip-on shoe … or something you don’t want in your bathtub — CLOG.
- 5A. Ancient artifact — RELIC.
- 7A. In a most unusual way — ODDLY.
- 8A. Springs in a mattress — COILS.
- 9A. Raven’s haven — NEST.
Down
- 1D. Slip-on shoe … or something you really don’t want in your bathtub — CLOG.
- 2D. Strung along — LEDON.
- 3D. Boomer’s bop, nowadays — OLDIE.
- 4D. Breathing organs for fish — GILLS.
- 6D. Fluid-filled lump — CYST.
What stood out
The duplicated entry CLOG appeared both Across and Down. That dual use guided many solvers quickly.
LEDON offered clever wordplay. The clue “Strung along” worked as both literal and figurative language.
Tips for faster solving
Watch for words with multiple meanings. Similar clues often share the same short answer.
References to generations suggest era-based terms. OLDIE fit the “Boomer’s bop” clue neatly.
The next Mini will be available at 10 p.m. EST tonight. Filmogaz.com will post answers and notes after publication.
