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.

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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