NYT Mini Crossword Answers and Clues for May 6, 2025: Your daily puzzle guide

Think you can crack the NYT Mini Crossword in under a minute? Test your wordplay skills with today’s clues and solutions! But before you scroll down for the answers, here’s a quick look at what makes this pint-sized puzzle so popular.

What is the NYT Mini Crossword?

Launched on August 21, 2014, the New York Times Mini Crossword is a bite-sized version of the classic NYT Crossword. Designed by Joel Fagliano, the Mini offers a quick, accessible daily challenge that appeals to both beginners and seasoned solvers alike. Most puzzles come in a 5×5 grid format with three to five clues in each direction, though you might see a 7×7 puzzle on Saturdays for a slightly tougher test.

Unlike the full-size NYT Crossword, which grows in difficulty from Monday through Saturday, the Mini is meant to be quick and fun — perfect for a coffee break or morning commute. Better still, you can play it free on the NYT Games app or website, although you’ll need a subscription to access the full archive.

Tips to Tackle the Mini Crossword

Start with the shortest or most obvious clues.

Use crossing letters to help fill in the harder words.

Don’t hesitate to take a guess — it’s easy to change your answers.

Keep an eye out for common crossword themes like geography, pop culture, or wordplay.

Try solving it yourself before checking the answers!

NYT Mini Crossword Clues and Answers for May 6, 2025

ACROSS

Everest and Kilimanjaro, abbr. — MTS

A little horse — FOAL

A little hoarse — RASPY

Perfect — IDEAL

Unlike houses that have been professionally staged — MESSY

DOWN

Hero of the Passover Seder — MOSES

Spanish small plates — TAPAS

In a sneaky way — SLYLY

Lessen over time — FADE

What airballs fail to touch — RIM

A Quick History

The Mini Crossword has become a daily staple for puzzle lovers since its debut in 2014. Edited by Joel Fagliano, with contributions from various freelance creators, it continues to charm users with clever clues and satisfying “aha” moments — all in under five minutes a day.