10 Across

NYT Mini • September 13, 2025

Clutter

Answer:

MESS

Hint:

Think of what you might call a room full of scattered toys or papers that need tidying up. It’s also a four-letter word for chaos.

Explanation:

"Clutter" is a straightforward clue pointing to a word that means disorder or untidiness. The answer "MESS" fits perfectly because it’s a common term for things being scattered or chaotic. There’s no hidden wordplay here—it’s a direct definition where the clue and answer share the same basic meaning. Think of a room full of stuff everywhere, and you’ve got the idea.

More Clues from This Puzzle

7 Across

7 letters

Many posts by Instagram influencers, informally

2 Down

6 letters

Poked with a knight’s weapon

9 Across

5 letters

Performed in a play

5 Down

6 letters

Abruptly stops texting

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