NYT Mini Answer for Jan 14, 2025

Happy 2025 to all mini crossword enthusiasts.

You're doing great, and don't give up - every puzzle solved is a step closer to becoming a master. Mini crosswords can be challenging, but that's what makes them fun.

If you're stuck on a particular clue, don't worry, we've got you covered. This page will provide you with helpful hints to get you back on track. From subtle wordplay to clever misdirection, our hints will guide you through the most tricky clues.

Whether you're a seasoned pro or a beginner, our hints are designed to be helpful without giving away the answers. So, take a deep breath, relax, and let's get solving. Remember, the joy of mini crosswords lies in the journey, not just the destination.

Check back here for hints and tips to help you conquer even the toughest mini crosswords. Happy puzzling!

Possible words for each clue

1-Across. "Vertically challenged"

Possible 5-letter words for this clue:

STUMP STILT SHORT STICK TOWER

6-Across. "I am ___, hear me roar!"

Possible 5-letter words for this clue:

HOUSE WOMAN LIONE ROARE FEMME

7-Across. Vote into office

Possible 5-letter words for this clue:

SELEC CANDI ELECT SENAT CAMPA

8-Across. Like a bold haircut or piercing

Possible 4-letter words for this clue:

TATT EDGY HAIR NEON TONG

9-Across. Org. that might make you take your laptop out of your suitcase

Possible 3-letter words for this clue:

TSA CAT AIR USA VIP

1-Down. Partner of 1-Across

Possible 5-letter words for this clue:

HOUSE SWEET LOVER FRIEN NEIGH

2-Down. Half nelson and cobra clutch, in wrestling

Possible 5-letter words for this clue:

GRIPS HOLDS LOCKS WRAPS CLUTS

3-Down. Lowest-ranking member of the wolfpack

Possible 5-letter words for this clue:

PUPIL OMEGA PACKS LAMAS PUPAS

4-Down. Risqué

Possible 4-letter words for this clue:

LEWD RACY NAKE SEXY LECH

5-Down. Explosive that was originally used as a yellow dye

Possible 3-letter words for this clue:

CAT TNT RED

Based on the hints provided, have you managed to deduce the solution? If you're still unable to come up with an answer, please refer to the options listed below.

Today's Answers Explained

"Vertically challenged"

The phrase "Vertically challenged" is a polite or humorous way to refer to someone who is short in stature. It is often used to avoid directly saying that someone is short, which can be considered impolite or insensitive. The phrase is a euphemism, implying that the person's height is not a defining characteristic, but rather a minor aspect of their overall being.

"I am ___, hear me roar!"

The phrase "I am ___, hear me roar!" is a famous lyric from the song "I Am Woman" by Helen Reddy. The song was released in 1972 and became a feminist anthem. The lyrics "I am woman, hear me roar" emphasize female empowerment and independence.

In this context, the word "WOMAN" is related to the phrase because it is the subject of the sentence, emphasizing the strength and power of women. The phrase has become a symbol of feminist movement and a rallying cry for women's rights.

Vote into office

The word "ELECT" in English is related to the hint "Vote into office" because "elect" is a verb that means to choose or vote someone into a position of power or office. In other words, when people vote for someone, they are electing them to a particular office or position.

Like a bold haircut or piercing

The hint "Like a bold haircut or piercing" is related to the word "EDGY" in English because it describes a style or behavior that is unconventional, daring, and often provocative.

In this context, "edgy" refers to something that is bold, daring, or unconventional, often in a way that is perceived as rebellious or provocative. A bold haircut or piercing can be seen as an example of an edgy style, as it challenges traditional norms and conventions.

The word "edgy" is often used to describe fashion, music, art, or behavior that is considered avant-garde or unconventional. It implies a sense of risk-taking and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

Org. that might make you take your laptop out of your suitcase

The hint "Org. that might make you take your laptop out of your suitcase" is related to the word "TSA" in English because TSA stands for Transportation Security Administration, which is an organization responsible for airport security in the United States. When traveling by air, the TSA requires passengers to remove electronic devices, including laptops, from their carry-on bags for screening.

Partner of 1-Across

The word "SWEET" can be related to the hint "Partner of 1-Across" in a crossword puzzle.

In this context, "1-Across" likely refers to the word "TREAT".

The word "TREAT" and "SWEET" are often associated with each other, as a treat is often something sweet.

Half nelson and cobra clutch, in wrestling

The hint "Half nelson and cobra clutch, in wrestling" is related to the word "HOLDS" in English because both phrases are types of holds used in wrestling.

• A "half nelson" is a type of hold in wrestling where a wrestler grabs the opponent's head and arm, applying pressure to the arm and shoulder.
• A "cobra clutch" is a type of hold in wrestling where a wrestler grabs the opponent's head and applies pressure to the neck and shoulder.

Both of these holds are types of holds, which is a general term for a type of grip or restraint used in wrestling. Therefore, the hint is related to the word "HOLDS" in English because it describes specific types of holds used in wrestling.

Lowest-ranking member of the wolfpack

The term "Omega" originates from the Greek alphabet, where it represents the last letter (Ω). In the context of wolf behavior, the "Omega" refers to the lowest-ranking member of the pack. This individual is often the target of aggression and bullying from the other wolves, and is typically the last to eat and the first to be excluded from important activities.

In the English language, the term "Omega" has been adopted to describe this specific role within a wolfpack. It is often used metaphorically to describe an individual who is at the bottom of a social hierarchy or is being bullied or marginalized.

The relationship between the hint "Lowest-ranking member of the wolfpack" and the word "Omega" is that the term "Omega" is derived from the concept of the lowest-ranking member of a wolfpack, and is used to describe individuals who occupy a similar position in other social contexts.

Risqué

The word "Racy" in English is related to the hint "Risqué" as both words convey a sense of being suggestive, provocative, or slightly off-color.

"Racy" typically refers to something that is spicy, bold, or daring, often in a way that is considered mildly risqué or provocative.

"Risqué", on the other hand, is a French loanword that specifically means something that is slightly off-color, suggestive, or indecent, often in a way that is considered mildly scandalous or provocative.

In both cases, the words imply a sense of boldness or daring that may push boundaries or challenge social norms, but in a way that is still considered acceptable or even appealing.

Explosive that was originally used as a yellow dye

The hint "Explosive that was originally used as a yellow dye" is related to the word "TNT" in English because TNT is a chemical compound with the formula C7H5N3O6, also known as trinitrotoluene.

Historically, TNT was first synthesized in 1863 by German chemist Joseph Wilbrand, who used it as a yellow dye. It was later discovered to have explosive properties and became widely used as a military explosive.