5 Across
NYT Mini • August 18, 2025
Queen or king
Answer:
ROYAL
Hint:
5-letter answer
Explanation:
The clue "Queen or king" hints at a word that describes both monarchs. Instead of naming a specific ruler, it points to the broader term "royal," which applies to anyone in a royal family. The answer plays on the shared status of queens and kings—they’re both royal figures, so the word fits perfectly. It’s a straightforward definition clue with no hidden wordplay.