NYT Mini Crossword: Clues and answers for August 22, 2025

The puzzle for Friday, August 22, 2025, continues the tradition of providing a delightful test of vocabulary and logic. With clues spanning topics from musical instruments to historic landmarks, this edition promises to engage players of all skill levels. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the puzzle, including clues, answers, and gameplay tips.

The New York Times Mini Crossword has become a favorite for puzzle enthusiasts seeking a quick but engaging mental challenge. Launched as a condensed version of the classic crossword, the Mini features smaller grids and fewer clues, making it perfect for players with limited time. Despite its compact size, the Mini delivers the same intellectual satisfaction as its larger counterpart, often blending clever wordplay with general knowledge.

The puzzle for Friday, August 22, 2025, continues the tradition of providing a delightful test of vocabulary and logic. With clues spanning topics from musical instruments to historic landmarks, this edition promises to engage players of all skill levels. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the puzzle, including clues, answers, and gameplay tips.

What is NYT Mini Crossword?

The NYT Mini Crossword is a smaller version of the full crossword puzzle, typically featuring a 5x5 grid, although the grid size can vary slightly. Unlike the full crossword, which may take an hour or more to solve, the Mini is designed to be completed in just a few minutes.

Each puzzle includes a mix of across and down clues, often drawing from diverse topics such as pop culture, history, science, and language. The Mini’s compact format and clever design have made it a popular daily ritual for players worldwide.
NYT Mini Crossword hints for August 22, 2025

Across clues:

1 Across: Spots to keep rakes, shovels, and tools
5 Across: Outer layer covering Babybel cheese
6 Across: “___ vs. Predator,” 2004 sci-fi movie
8 Across: Interruption while streaming
9 Across: Places where boats are tied
10 Across: Trait of a Southern accent
14 Across: Root vegetable that looks like a sweet potato
15 Across: Informal term for something excellent
17 Across: Roll of grass used by landscapers
18 Across: Remains left after a campfire
Down clues:

2 Down: Villain from 2001: A Space Odyssey — (Ends with “I”)
3 Down: Expelled from one’s country — (Ends with “E”)
4 Down: Examples include Uptown Funk and Downtown — (Starts with “S”)
7 Down: “Can I bend your ___ for a second?” — (Ends with “N”)
10 Down: Describes a driven, competitive person — (Starts with “T”)
11 Down: Easy card game for two players — (Ends with “S”)
12 Down: Religious group known for plain living — (Starts with “A”)
13 Down: Items kept in a store for sale — (Ends with “S”)
16 Down: Bartender from The Simpsons — (Starts with “M”)
NYT Mini Crossword answers for August 22, 2025
Across answers:

1 Across: Places to store shovels and leaf blowers — SHEDS
5 Across: Coating for Babybel cheese — WAX
6 Across: "___ vs. Predator" (2004 sci-fi film) — ALIEN
8 Across: Streaming glitch — LAG
9 Across: Docking spots — PIERS
10 Across: Feature of a Southern accent — TWANG
14 Across: Sweet potato lookalike — YAM
15 Across: Top-notch, informally — PRIME
17 Across: Greenskeeper’s roll of grass — SOD
18 Across: Campfire remnants — ASH

Down answers:

2 Down: Villainous computer in 2001: A Space Odyssey — HAL
3 Down: Banished person — EXILE
4 Down: “Uptown Funk” and “Downtown,” for example — SONGS
7 Down: “Can I bend your ___ for a minute?” — EAR
10 Down: Driven, competitive personality type — TYPE A
11 Down: Easy two-player card game — WAR
12 Down: Group known for plain living — AMISH
13 Down: Items for sale in a store — GOODS
16 Down: Bartender on The Simpsons — MOE

Tips for solving NYT Mini Crossword

Start with familiar clues: Begin by answering the clues you find easiest. This helps fill in parts of the grid and provides context for the remaining clues.
Leverage crossings: Use intersecting words to guide your guesses for tougher clues. The Mini’s smaller grid size makes this strategy especially effective.
Think laterally: Some clues rely on wordplay or less obvious associations. Be open to interpreting the clue from different angles.
Focus on common themes: Mini puzzles often have subtle themes that can help guide your answers. Look for patterns in the clues or answers.
Why is NYT Mini Crossword so popular?

The Mini crossword’s success lies in its accessibility and versatility. Its quick-play format makes it ideal for short breaks, while its clever clues ensure a rewarding mental challenge. The puzzle’s broad appeal spans casual players and seasoned crossword enthusiasts alike.

Additionally, the Mini promotes cognitive benefits, such as improved vocabulary, pattern recognition, and problem-solving skills. Its engaging design encourages players to return daily, building a streak and fostering a sense of accomplishment.