NYT Mini Crossword Answers Today [12/22/2025]

Got stuck on today’s NYT Mini Crossword? Don’t worry, you’ll find all the answers you need right here, along with clues to help you out. We all know how a full crossword can take up so much of our time. That’s exactly why the NYT introduced the mini version, it’s just the right size for a quick puzzle fix.

This mini puzzle usually has a small 5×5 grid with fun hints that might make you smile or think a bit harder. But, the New York Times has started to make the Saturday puzzle a little tougher by adding a few more hints than usual. Even with this change, it’s still a great way to give your brain a quick workout every day. Let’s see today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers.

Today’s NYT Mini Crossword Answers: Dec 22, 2025

Across

Clues	Answers
1 Greeting from Kermit the Frog	HIHO
5 Apt name for a baby born around Christmas	CAROL
6 Body part that might be sprained or rolled	ANKLE
7 Apt name for a baby born around Christmas	NOEL
8 Unlikely to leave a mess	TIDY

DOWN

Clues	Answers
1 Vietnam’s capital city	HANOI
2 Irritated	IRKED
3 Apt name for a baby born around Christmas	HOLLY
4 Cry at a bullfight	OLE
5 “I ___ even!” (modern complaint)	CANT

Why Did the NYT Start the Mini Crossword?

After we’ve sorted out today’s puzzle, you might wonder, why did the NYT start the Mini Crossword? It’s a fascinating story. The New York Times recognized that not everyone had the time or inclination for their traditional, longer crossword puzzles. In our fast-paced world, many people look for quick, engaging puzzle that fit into their busy schedules.

This shorter version of the classic crossword is perfect for a digital audience, offering instant satisfaction and a daily mental workout without the commitment of the full-size puzzle. It’s also a brilliant way for newcomers to dip their toes into the world of crosswords, providing a stepping stone to more challenging puzzles.

There are more Puzzle with solutions:

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