15 Down

NYT Daily • August 8, 2025

Hybrid feline whose coat may feature rosettes

Answer:

BENGALCAT

Hint:

"Here’s a helpful hint for the clue: "Domestic cat with wild ancestry and leopard-like markings." This hint: - Keeps the focus on the hybrid nature and distinctive coat pattern. - Avoids repeating "rosettes" or "feline" directly. - Nudges the solver toward the exotic appearance and lineage without giving away the answer."

Explanation:

The clue "Hybrid feline whose coat may feature rosettes" leads to the answer "BENGALCAT" through the following breakdown: 1. Hybrid feline – A "Bengal cat" is a domestic cat breed created by crossing an Asian leopard cat with a domestic cat, making it a hybrid. 2.