NYT Mini Crossword Feb 16 Hints and answers to solve today’s word challenge

For many crossword enthusiasts, the NYT Mini Crossword is an essential part of the day. Alongside Wordle, Connections, and Strands, this compact yet engaging puzzle from The New York Times has garnered a loyal following.

While The Crossword, the NYT’s full-sized puzzle, remains a favorite among paid subscribers, The Mini offers a quick yet satisfying challenge for all players.

If you are working through the NYT Mini Crossword Feb 16 and find yourself in need of a nudge, we have you covered.


Below, we provide hints for today’s puzzle, helping you crack the answers without completely spoiling the fun.

If you are looking for full solutions, proceed with caution: answers are listed further down.

Hints for NYT Mini Crossword – February 16, 2025

Here are some helpful clues to guide you through today’s puzzle, as mentioned in a report by Parade magazine.

Across Hints

• 1 Across: What has two hands around your wrist? — Hint: Starts with "W"
  
• 6 Across: Sneeze sound — Hint: Ends with "O"
  
• 7 Across: Elevator choice — Hint: Starts with "F"
  
• 8 Across: _____ and Caicos — Hint: Ends with "S"
  
• 9 Across: Magnetoreception, for many migratory birds and fish — Hint: Starts with "S"
  

Down Hints

• 1 Down: Floats, as a smell — Hint: Ends with "S"
  
• 2 Down: "I don't have _____" ("Beats me") — Hint: Starts with "A"
  
• 3 Down: Rosebush protector — Hint: Ends with "N"
  
• 4 Down: Too many might be in the kitchen — Hint: Starts with "C"
  
• 5 Down: Basketball game with a spelled-out score — Hint: Ends with "E"
  

Answers to NYT Mini Crossword – February 16, 2025

If you’re ready to check your solutions, here are the correct words for today’s puzzle.

Across Answers

• 1 Across: WATCH
  
• 6 Across: ACHOO
  
• 7 Across: FLOOR
  
• 8 Across: TURKS
  
• 9 Across: SENSE
  

Down Answers

• 1 Down: WAFTS
  
• 2 Down: ACLUE
  
• 3 Down: THORN
  
• 4 Down: COOKS
  
• 5 Down: HORSE
  

FAQs

What is the daily mini?

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword.

How do I access the NYT mini crossword?

You can access The Mini crossword at nytimes.com/games, through The New York Times Games app on iOS and Android, or via the Play tab in The New York Times News app.