51 Down

NYT Daily ? September 26, 2025

Purifying filter acronym

Answer:

HEPA

Hint:

This type of filter is commonly found in air purifiers and vacuum cleaners to trap tiny particles like dust, pollen, and pet dander. It stands for a standard that removes at least 99.97% of airborne contaminants.

Explanation:

This clue points to "HEPA," which stands for High-Efficiency Particulate Air—a common acronym for filters that remove tiny particles from the air. The word "purifying" hints at its cleaning function, while "filter" directly ties to its purpose. The answer is straightforward since "HEPA" is widely recognized in air quality and home appliances.

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General solving tip

Match the clue's grammar: plural with plural, past with past. If the clue ends in 's' or uses a past-tense verb, mirror that form in the entry.

More tips → General Hints