This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Sunday, November 2, 2025 (9 Down). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Sunday puzzles are large (21 by 21) and themed, about as hard as a Wednesday or Thursday.
Answer length: 6 squares
First letter
S _ _ _ _ _
First and last letters
S _ _ _ _ S
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About the answer
SPATES as a word: (countable, figurative) A sudden increase or rush of something; a flood, an outburst, an outpouring; (countable) A sudden heavy downpour of rain.
SPATES has been an answer once in the NYT Crossword and Mini puzzles we have on file, which go back to October 23, 2025.
More clues from this puzzle
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- Document that promises secrecy, for short (12 Down)
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