Mini hints and answer for May 23, 2026

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

Clues14
Across7
Down7
ConstructorSam Ezersky

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

5A
Submarine navigation aid (5)
Starts with S, ends with RSONAR→
6A
Boy in "The Jungle Book" (6)
Starts with M, ends with IMOWGLI→
7A
Where Bills often pass? (7)
Starts with B, ends with OBUFFALO→
8A
Shape of a stop sign (7)
Starts with O, ends with NOCTAGON→
9A
"Well, ___ you have it!" (5)
Starts with T, ends with ETHERE→
10A
Sharpened, as one's skills (5)
Starts with H, ends with DHONED→

Down

1D
Discounted payment for a plane ticket (7)
Starts with L, ends with ELOWFARE→
2D
Soon to be married (7)
Starts with E, ends with DENGAGED→
3D
Pico de ___ (5)
Starts with G, ends with OGALLO→
4D
Hunter with a belt made of stars (5)
Starts with O, ends with NORION→
5D
Get mushy at room temperature, as butter (6)
Starts with S, ends with NSOFTEN→
6D
A lot, in Spanish (5)
Starts with M, ends with OMUCHO→
7D
This one and that one (4)
Starts with B, ends with HBOTH→

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 May 23, 2026?+

14 clues: 7 Across and 7 Down. The puzzle was constructed by Sam Ezersky and edited by Joel Fagliano.

What are some answers in today’s Mini?+

For example: Toy brand that sells a nearly five-foot-tall Eiffel Tower, consisting of 10,001 pieces (LEGO); Submarine navigation aid (SONAR); Boy in "The Jungle Book" (MOWGLI).

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