15 Across

NYT Daily ? September 29, 2025

Opening stake

Answer:

ANTE

Hint:

Think of the small bet required before cards are dealt in poker—it’s not the main wager but gets the game started.

Explanation:

"Opening stake" refers to the initial bet required to start a poker game, which is called an "ante." The word "opening" hints at the beginning of the game, while "stake" is another term for a bet. It’s a straightforward definition with no wordplay—just a common poker term that fits the clue perfectly.

More Clues from This Puzzle

39 Across

5 letters

"Feel me?"

48 Across

4 letters

Schedule opening

65 Across

4 letters

Encouraging start?

1 Down

4 letters

Bank-backing grp. since 1933

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