The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times‘ revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.
With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.
So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player’s flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.
Here are the clues and answers to NYT’s The Mini for Friday, August 22, 2025:
Across
Places to store shovels and leaf blowers
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The answer is Sheds.
Coating for Babybel cheese
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The answer is Wax.
“___ vs. Predator” (2004 sci-fi film)
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The answer is Alien.
Streaming glitch
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The answer is Lag.
Docking spots
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The answer is Piers.
Feature of a Southern accent
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The answer is Twang.
Sweet potato lookalike
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The answer is Yam.
Top-notch, informally
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The answer is Primo.
Greenskeeper’s roll of grass
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The answer is Sod.
Campfire remnants
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The answer is Ashes.
Down
Nickname for the Florida Gators football stadium, with “the”
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The answer is Swamp.
“2001: A Space Odyssey” villain
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The answer is Hal.
Cast out from a country
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The answer is Exile.
“Uptown Funk” and “Downtown,” for two
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The answer is Songs.
“Can I bend your ___ for a second?”
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The answer is Ear.
Like an ambitious, competitive personality
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The answer is Type A.
Simple-to-play card game for two
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The answer is War.
Simple-living sect
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The answer is Amish.
Shop owner’s stock
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The answer is Goods.
Barkeep on “The Simpsons”
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The answer is Moe.
If you’re looking for more puzzles, Mashable’s got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.
Featured Video For You
Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today’s Strands.
Not the day you’re after? Here’s the solution to yesterday’s Mini Crossword.