Mini hints and answer for September 19, 2026

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

Clues18
Across8
Down10
ConstructorJoel Fagliano

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
Vacation rental (6)
Starts with A, ends with BAIRBNB→
8A
Father figure? (6)
Starts with D, ends with DDADBOD→
9A
Comedian Samberg (4)
Starts with A, ends with YANDY→
10A
___-bitty (4)
Starts with I, ends with YITTY→
13A
Canada's capital (6)
Starts with O, ends with AOTTAWA→
15A
April 1st prankster (6)
Starts with F, ends with RFOOLER→
16A
Like the tongues of snakes (6)
Starts with F, ends with DFORKED→

Down

2D
"As far as ___ tell ..." (4)
Starts with I, ends with NICAN→
4D
Wittle, e.g. (8)
Starts with B, ends with KBABYTALK→
5D
Many a foreign aid grp. (3)
Starts with N, ends with ONGO→
6D
What a convertible sofa converts into (3)
Starts with B, ends with DBED→
11D
Overly cutesy (4)
Starts with T, ends with ETWEE→
12D
Football field unit (4)
Starts with Y, ends with DYARD→
13D
Not working today (3)
Starts with O, ends with FOFF→
14D
In addition (3)
Starts with T, ends with OTOO→

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 September 19, 2026?+

18 clues: 8 Across and 10 Down. The puzzle was constructed by Joel Fagliano.

What are some answers in today’s Mini?+

For example: Vacation rental (AIRBNB); When woolly mammoths and saber-toothed tigers roamed the earth (ICEAGE); Father figure? (DADBOD).

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