26 Across
NYT Daily • August 13, 2025
Dearest pal
Answer:
BESTIE
Hint:
Your ride-or-die might shorten this term when tagging you in a playful post.
Explanation:
"Dearest pal" is a casual way to refer to a very close friend, and "bestie" is a modern slang term for that exact idea. The clue plays on the affectionate tone of "dearest," which aligns perfectly with how people use "bestie" in everyday conversation. It’s a straightforward definition with no hidden wordplay—just a warm, informal synonym for a beloved friend.