20 Across
NYT Daily ? September 27, 2025
Backbiter?
Answer:
FLEA
Hint:
This tiny bloodsucker might leave you scratching, but it’s not known for spreading gossip—just irritation.
Explanation:
"Backbiter" hints at something that bites from behind, which a flea literally does—it’s a tiny insect that jumps onto hosts and bites their skin. The question mark signals wordplay, suggesting the answer isn’t a literal gossip (another meaning of "backbiter") but a playful twist on the idea. Fleas are notorious for their sneaky, irritating bites, making them a clever fit for the clue.
More Clues from This Puzzle
General solving tip
A question mark usually flags wordplay or a non-literal reading. Expect a pun, a twist, or a definition that's one step removed from the surface meaning.
More tips → General Hints