52 Across

NYT Daily • August 5, 2025

Flaky rock

Answer:

MICA

Hint:

["Think of a mineral that can be peeled into thin layers."]

Explanation:

"Flaky rock" describes mica perfectly because it’s a mineral that splits easily into thin, flexible sheets. The clue is straightforward—no wordplay or tricks—just a direct definition of mica’s most recognizable trait. You might know it from shiny flecks in granite or old-school makeup for its pearly look.