9 Across

NYT Mini • September 29, 2025

Emanation from a hot shower

Answer:

STEAM

Hint:

Think of what rises when boiling water meets cool air, often seen swirling above a pot or fogging up a mirror.

Explanation:

When you take a hot shower, the warm water releases tiny water droplets into the air, creating a visible mist—that’s steam. The clue plays on the idea of something "emanating" (coming out) from the shower, which is a straightforward way to describe steam rising. No wordplay here, just a direct description of a common experience.

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General solving tip

Short grid glue often mirrors map or address abbreviations (ENE, AVE, ST). If the clue looks abbreviated, the answer probably is too.

More tips → General Hints