This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Tuesday, March 3, 2026 (44 Across). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Tuesday puzzles are a step up from Monday but still mostly straightforward.
Answer length: 5 squares
First letter
R _ _ _ _
First and last letters
R _ _ _ S
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About the answer
ROUTS as a word: (originally military) The act of completely defeating an army or other enemy force, causing it to retreat in a disorganized manner; (by extension) in politic...; (transitive) To completely defeat and force into disorderly retreat (an enemy force, opponent in sport, etc.).
ROUTS 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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- Regrets (43 Across)
- Cheeky attitude (45 Across)
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- Promgoers' luxurious rides (47 Across)
- Kind of oil extracted from hemp, for short (53 Across)
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