NYT Mini crossword answers, hints for December 16, 2025

The Mini is a bite-sized version of The New York Times' revered daily crossword. While the crossword is a lengthier experience that requires both knowledge and patience to complete, The Mini is an entirely different vibe.

With only a handful of clues to answer, the daily puzzle doubles as a speed-running test for many who play it.

So, when a tricky clue disrupts a player's flow, it can be frustrating! If you find yourself stumped playing The Mini — much like with Wordle and Connections — we have you covered.

Here are the clues and answers to NYT's The Mini for Tuesday, Dec. 16, 2025:

Across

It has a trunk

• The answer is Car.

Kentucky senator ___ Paul

• The answer is Rand.

They have branches

• The answer is Banks.

Nowhere to be found

• The answer is AWOL.

It has a trunk and branches

• The answer is Tree.

Down

Something that's carried while portaging, perhaps

• The answer is Canoe

___ breaker, basketball move that causes the defender to fall over

• The answer is Ankle.

Two in a fork?: Abbr.

• The answer is RDs.

Sound that imitates a lion or dinosaur

• The answer is Rawr.

Symbol in the night sky over Gotham

• The answer is Bat.

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

Are you also playing NYT Strands? See hints and answers for today's Strands.

Not the day you're after? Here's the solution to yesterday's Mini Crossword.