The Mini is a smaller rendition of The New York Times‘ renowned daily crossword. Whereas the classic crossword presents a more extensive challenge that requires both expertise and perseverance, The Mini offers a unique encounter.
With only a handful of clues to tackle, the daily puzzle acts as a brisk challenge for numerous players.
When a tricky clue disrupts a player’s flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself in a bind with The Mini — akin to Wordle and Connections — we’re here to assist you.
Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and additional games: Enjoy games on Mashable
Instructions on playing Pips, the latest NYT game
Here are the clues and solutions for NYT’s The Mini for Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025:
Across
It has a trunk
The answer is Car.
Kentucky senator ___ Paul
The answer is Rand.
They have branches
The answer is Banks.
Nowhere to be found
The answer is AWOL.
It has a trunk and branches
The answer is Tree.
Down
Something that’s transported while portaging, perhaps
The answer is Canoe
___ breaker, basketball maneuver that causes the defender to topple
The answer is Ankle.
Two in a fork?: Abbr.
The answer is RDs.
Sound emulating a lion or dinosaur
The answer is Rawr.
Symbol in the evening sky over Gotham
The answer is Bat.
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