119 Across
NYT Daily • September 7, 2025
Home makeover, in brief
Answer:
RENO
Hint:
Think of the three-letter term contractors use when updating a house—it’s short for a process that often involves hammers and paint.
Explanation:
Home makeover, in brief" is a straightforward abbreviation clue. The full phrase would be "home renovation," but "reno" is a common short form for it—like how people say "reno" instead of "renovation" in casual conversation. The clue hints at this by using "in brief," signaling the answer is a shortened version of the longer term. It’s a simple play on everyday language.