What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
Here are the clues and answers for the Saturday, April 5, 2025 NYT Mini Crossword. Start with the spoiler-free hints, or jump to the clearly marked answer key when you’re ready.
Spoiler-free hints for the April 5 Mini
These nudges point toward the answers without spelling them out. If you want the complete solutions, continue to the spoiler warning below.
Across
- 1. Cummerbund, e.g. Think of a broad band worn around the waist with formal evening clothes.
- 5. Cheese-covered chip Picture a tortilla chip with a melted topping.
- 6. Singer in a synagogue The clue is asking for a Jewish prayer leader who sings or chants during services.
- 7. Like decision-making in a hierarchical organization Decisions flow from leaders at the top toward people lower in the organization.
- 8. Where a browser might get cookies? Read “browser” as a person who visits shops, rather than as software.
- 9. Mixes, as a drink Think of what you do with a spoon to combine a beverage.
- 10. 10 in a lane The lane is at a bowling alley; the clue points to the objects used to score a strike.
Down
- 1. Politician on a “Fighting Oligarchy” tour with Ocasio-Cortez The clue refers to a U.S. senator who campaigned for president.
- 2. The first “A” of SAG-AFTRA The initials begin with a word for performers who act.
- 3. Flamboyant Consider a short adjective for something showy or attention-grabbing.
- 4. Unicorn’s defining feature Think of the single feature on its forehead that distinguishes the mythical animal.
- 5. Lap protector This is an item commonly used to catch food spills while eating.
- 6. Raccoon-like mammal of South America The animal is related in appearance to a raccoon and has a long snout.
- 7. 1/16 of a cup: Abbr. Convert the fraction to tablespoons, then use the standard abbreviation.
Spoiler warning: full answer key
The solutions are below. The April 5, 2025 entries are listed by direction and clue number.
Across answers
| Number | Clue | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cummerbund, e.g. | SASH |
| 5 | Cheese-covered chip | NACHO |
| 6 | Singer in a synagogue | CANTOR |
| 7 | Like decision-making in a hierarchical organization | TOPDOWN |
| 8 | Where a browser might get cookies? | BAKERY |
| 9 | Mixes, as a drink | STIRS |
| 10 | 10 in a lane | PINS |
Down answers
| Number | Clue | Answer |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Politician on a “Fighting Oligarchy” tour with Ocasio-Cortez | SANDERS |
| 2 | The first “A” of SAG-AFTRA | ACTORS |
| 3 | Flamboyant | SHOWY |
| 4 | Unicorn’s defining feature | HORN |
| 5 | Lap protector | NAPKIN |
| 6 | Raccoon-like mammal of South America | COATI |
| 7 | 1/16 of a cup: Abbr. | TBSP |
How the answer list was verified
The dated guides from Forbes and Parade agree on all seven Across and seven Down entries. Those are published-guide matches; an official New York Times answer key or original grid was not available for independent comparison.
Quick Recap
Best Value
Rank #3
#1 Best Overall
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.
