Today’s Mini Crossword Answers and Hints – February 22, 2026

Looking for the solution to today’s New York Times Mini Crossword? You’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find the answers to the February 22, 2026 puzzle, along with the clues. If you’re also interested in solutions for other New York Times Games, including Wordle, Strands, Connections, and Connections: Sports Edition, you can find hints and answers on CNET’s NYT puzzle hints page.

Mini Crossword Clues and Answers – February 22, 2026

Across

1. 1A: Soybeans or rice Answer: CROP
2. 5A: Bit of gossip Answer: RUMOR
3. 7A: South American flatbread made of ground maize Answer: AREPA
4. 8A: ___ 8 Ball Answer: MAGIC
5. 9A: Something a pirate might make you walk Answer: PLANK

Down

1. 1D: Sudden muscle tightness Answer: CRAMP
2. 2D: Like the areas beyond suburbia Answer: RURAL
3. 3D: Luxury Swiss watch brand Answer: OMEGA
4. 4D: Stop by unannounced Answer: POPIN
5. 6D: Billiards triangle Answer: RACK

The New York Times Mini Crossword is a popular daily word puzzle known for its concise format and engaging clues. It’s a great way to take a quick mental break and challenge your vocabulary. The Mini Crossword was first introduced in 2014, alongside other games like Spelling Bee, Letter Boxed, and Tiles . Later, the New York Times acquired Wordle and added Connections and Strands to its collection of games .

You can access the Mini Crossword, along with other New York Times games, through the NYT Games app, available for both iOS and Android devices.