Mini hints and answer for August 22, 2026

Hints that get gradually more specific, then the answer if you need it. Nothing is revealed until you tap.

Clues18
Across7
Down11
ConstructorIan Livengood

Today’s Mini clues, hints & answers

Every clue from this puzzle with a hint and the answer behind separate buttons, so you only see what you need. Click a clue for its own page.

Across

1A
Gets right down to business (7)
Starts with D, ends with NDIVESIN→
8A
Japanese for "folding paper" (7)
Starts with O, ends with IORIGAMI→
9A
_a_er and _encil game (7)
Starts with H, ends with NHANGMAN→
10A
"Dee-lish!" (3)
Starts with Y, ends with MYUM→
11A
Specialized (in), as in college (7)
Starts with M, ends with DMAJORED→
15A
Small hair on which mascara is applied (7)
Starts with E, ends with HEYELASH→
16A
Sloppy smooch (7)
Starts with W, ends with SWETKISS→

Down

1D
Homer Simpson's shout (3)
Starts with D, ends with HDOH→
2D
Roth ___ (3)
Starts with I, ends with AIRA→
3D
Actor Diesel of the "Fast & Furious" films (3)
Starts with V, ends with NVIN→
4D
"Sunny" part of a breakfast order (7)
Starts with E, ends with KEGGYOLK→
5D
Warrior with a katana (7)
Starts with S, ends with ISAMURAI→
7D
Trent Reznor's rock band, to fans (3)
Starts with N, ends with NNIN→
11D
Call from a kitten (3)
Starts with M, ends with WMEW→
12D
Sailor's assent (3)
Starts with A, ends with EAYE→
13D
F-16 Fighting Falcon, e.g. (3)
Starts with J, ends with TJET→
14D
Nonfielding baseball players, for short (3)
Starts with D, ends with SDHS→

How to solve the Mini

Click a square and type to fill the grid. Each clue is numbered and marked Across or Down; the answer runs from the numbered square in that direction. The timer starts when you open the puzzle, and completing the grid correctly stops it. There are no penalties for wrong letters, so experienced solvers fill fast and fix as they go.

Want the full method? Read our Mini strategy and tips, or check how to play the Mini on the hub.

Mini tips for tomorrow

  • Fill the long answers first. In a 5x5 grid the five-letter entries give you a letter in every crossing. Start there.
  • Read every clue once before typing. A quick scan usually reveals two or three gimmes that unlock the rest.
  • Trust the crossings. If an Across answer feels wrong, check the Down words through it rather than guessing again.

Done for today? Try The Midi, NYT Crossword, LA Times Crossword, all with hints first and answers behind a reveal.

Previous Mini puzzles

Mini FAQ

How many clues are in the Mini for August 22, 2026?+

18 clues: 7 Across and 11 Down. The puzzle was constructed by Ian Livengood and edited by Joel Fagliano.

What are some answers in today’s Mini?+

For example: Gets right down to business (DIVESIN); Japanese for "folding paper" (ORIGAMI); _a_er and _encil game (HANGMAN).

What time does the NYT Mini come out?+

The next day's Mini is released at 10:00 pm Eastern Time on weekdays and 6:00 pm on weekends.

Where can I find past Mini answers?+

Every past Mini on GameAnswers.com has its own page with hints and answers for every clue. Click any date above.

Today’s other puzzle answers

Mini guides