This clue appeared in the NYT Crossword on Friday, December 12, 2025 (18 Across). The answer is hidden below until you want it. Friday puzzles are themeless and hard, with clues that are vague on purpose.
How to read this clue
"E.g." means the clue gives an example, and the answer names the group it belongs to.
Answer length: 4 squares
First letter
P _ _ _
First and last letters
P _ _ A
Show the answer
About the answer
PLEA as a word: An appeal, petition, urgent prayer or entreaty; An excuse; an apology.
PLEA has been an answer 7 times in the NYT Crossword and Mini since November 7, 2025.
Other clues with the same answer
More clues from this puzzle
- Doesn't just talk (10 Across)
- "You're telling me!" (14 Across)
- Word with wet or sweat (16 Across)
- Conspiracy theorist's accessory (17 Across)
- 16 in a Sweet Sixteen (19 Across)
- Main component of a "gutbucket," a jug band instrument (20 Across)
- Personal records (22 Across)
- Padlocked fasteners (25 Across)
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