Here are the answers to the Thursday, June 12, 2025 NYT Mini Crossword. For a hint before you look at the full key, focus on the clue “Some things off the top of your head?”
Hint for the June 12 Mini
“Some things off the top of your head?” points to HAIRS. The question mark signals wordplay: read “off the top of your head” literally. That is a secondary solver’s interpretation, not an official explanation from the constructor.
Across answers
- 1-Across: TAI — ___ chi
- 4-Across: PAID — Financially compensated
- 5-Across: HAIRS — Some things off the top of your head?
- 6-Across: AILS — Feels sick
- 7-Across: MRS — ___ Peacock, character in Clue
Down answers
- 1-Down: TAILS — Coin flip call
- 2-Down: AIRS — Shows on TV
- 3-Down: IDS — Requests at the bar, informally
- 4-Down: PAIR — Decent poker holding
- 5-Down: HAM — Person who loves attention
Why 3-Down is IDS
Published answer listings differ on 3-Down: Forbes gives ILLS, while Parade gives IDS. The crossing letters displayed by Lady Puzzle Pro read I-D-S, supporting Parade’s answer. The key above uses IDS.
How to play or access the puzzle
The New York Times describes The Mini as a smaller version of its Crossword: fill the white squares by solving Across and Down clues, whose answers intersect. The game is available to subscribers with qualifying Games access through the Games app, the crossword website, and the News app. Subscribers can also play past Minis in the archive on the web and in the Games app. The New York Times Help Center explains The Mini and its access options.
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According to the Help Center, weekday and Saturday Minis become available at 10 p.m. EST the previous day; Sunday puzzles become available at 6 p.m. EST on Saturday. The June 12, 2025 puzzle appeared the prior evening, consistent with that schedule.
If you are stuck while playing, the in-game lifesaver controls can check or reveal a square, an answer, or the whole puzzle. Try those before opening a full answer key if you want to preserve the solve.
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