NYT Mini Crossword June 18, 2025: Hints and answers to help you solve today’s tricky puzzle

The New York Times Mini Crossword is back with another quick but clever grid. While the puzzle is just 5-by-5, it still packs in tricky clues and satisfying “aha” moments. For today, June 18, some clues were pretty direct, while others needed a little extra thinking. If you're stuck on one or two entries or just want to check your answers, this article gives you helpful hints first and then the full solution further down.

Many players breeze through The Mini in under a minute, but even one tough clue can slow things down. That’s where these hints come in as they’ll guide you without giving away too much too soon. Ready to give it another shot before peeking? Let’s get into it.

Across clue hints

• 1 Across: Hit the stores - Think of something quick people do when they need to buy something.
• 5 Across: Cross one’s fingers - You do this when you are really wishing for a good outcome.
• 6 Across: Here’s a thought! - A one-word way to express an idea or brainstorm.
• 7 Across: Old episode - You might catch one of these during a TV marathon.
• 8 Across: Request for a follow on social media - A two-word phrase, casual and common in DMs.

Down clue hints

• 1 Down: Tear to pieces - Think of what a paper shredder does.
• 2 Down: Be bad at throwing things away - A person with this habit keeps way too many items.
• 3 Down: Drug in “Wizard of Oz” poppy field - Starts with “O” and can cause sleep.
• 4 Down: Tubular pasta - Five letters, ends with “E,” and holds sauce really well.
• 6 Down: Its sizes are measured in cups - A clothing item for support, not for tea.

Answers for Mini Crossword June 18 2025

Across:

• 1 Across: SHOP
• 5 Across: HOPE
• 6 Across: BRAIN
• 7 Across: RERUN
• 8 Across: ADDME

Down:

• 1 Down: SHRED
• 2 Down: HOARD
• 3 Down: OPIUM
• 4 Down: PENNE
• 6 Down: BRA

That’s all for today’s NYT Mini Crossword. Whether you needed just one clue or the whole board, good job making it to the end. These quick puzzles are a great way to sharpen your brain and enjoy a few minutes of wordplay. Come back tomorrow for a brand new challenge.