This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Thursday, July 2, 2026 (26 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Thursday puzzles often have a trick, such as a rebus (several letters in one square) or answers that bend the rules.
How to read this clue
The question mark warns of wordplay. Expect a pun or a second meaning rather than a straight definition.
Answer length: 3 squares
First letter
S _ _
Show the answer
About the answer
SPY as a word: A person who secretly watches and examines the actions of other individuals or organizations and gathers information on them (usually to gain an advantage); (intransitive) To act as a spy.
SPY has been an answer 14 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since October 28, 2025.
Other clues with the same answer
- Defensive player who keeps an eye on the QB, in football lingo
- Mole, e.g.
- W.W. II-era occupation for baseball's Moe Berg, following his playing career
- Washington, D.C.'s International ___ Museum
- Secretly watch, with "on"
- Author Roald Dahl, during World War II
- One with secrets
- Secret agent
- C.I.A. asset
- Costume that might include a black trench coat and sunglasses
- Intelligence bureau worker
- Conduct surveillance
More clues from this puzzle
- Printing size (21 Down)
- Two-time Tony winner Neuwirth (23 Down)
- "Yowza!" (24 Down)
- Comedian Poundstone (25 Down)
- ___ Island (29 Down)
- Graceless ones (30 Down)
- Gets going (33 Down)
- Ticked off (37 Down)
Play today's NYT Crossword at The New York Times
All crossword clues · Today's NYT Crossword answers · Today's Mini answers